Settlement, growth and mortality of 0-group plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) in Icelandic waters

Abstract This paper describes the results of a study on settlement, growth and mortality of 0-group plaice ( Pleuronectes platessa ) in Icelandic waters in 1999. Settlement of metamorphosing plaice in size between 9 and 14 mm TL was observed from the first sampling at the end of May. Over the survey period, densities increased to maximum numbers of about 10 individuals per 100 m 2 at the end of June. Hereafter, numbers declined steadily until the end of September. The growth rate of juvenile plaice over the period June–August was estimated to be 0.6 mm d −1 , which appeared to be maximal and only determined by prevailing water temperatures. Instantaneous mortality was estimated to be in the order of 0.03 d −1 . Due to the almost complete absence of predatory crustaceans, this mortality is assumed to be caused by fish and bird predation.