Distribution and Size of Short-finned Squid ( Illex illecebrosus ) Larvae in the Northwest Atlantic from Winter Surveys in 1969, 1981 and 1982

Abstract

During a plankton survey along the edge of the continent shelf south of New Jersey [USA] in Feb. 1969, Illex sp. larvae were caught in the vicinity of the Florida Current between Cape Hatteras and central Florida (28.degree.30'N, 80.degree.00'W). The larva from the latter area represents the most southwesterly capture that has been reported to date. Illex sp. larvae were also caught during surveys in Feb.-March of 1981 and 1982 south of Newfoundland [Canada] in the northern part of the Gulf Stream, the most easterly capture being at 40.degree.09'N53.degree.00'W and most northerly capture at 41.degree.00'N56.degree.00'W. The larvae taken off Florida were 1.1-6.2 mm mantle length (ML) and those from the region south of Newfoundland were 2.4-6.6 mm. From the observed distribution and sizes of larvae in relation to water masses associated with the Gulf Stream System and in the light of recent observations on I. illecebrosus spawning in captivity and temperatures required for embryonic development, it is considered that spawning probably occurs pelagically and mainly in the winter months within the Gulf Stream or in the Gulf Stream-Slope Water frontal zone south of Cape Hatteras.