522 Reproductive biology of Atka Mackerel

In 2004, spatio-temporal patterns in distribution were examined with respect to spawning condition and habitat use for nesting sites. Additionally, Atka mackerel embryos were incubated at different temperatures at the Alaska SeaLife Center to allow the construction of developmental series. This information is essential since egg development at low temperatures in deeper waters could extend the spawning season dramatically and influence distribution patterns.

Variability in female maturity schedule was examined and it is proposed to estimate variability of realized fecundity that also directly affects reproductive output and estimation of female spawning biomass. Male spawning biomass might influence reproductive success as much as female spawning biomass due to nest guarding. Egg cannibalism as a mating strategy could maximize individual reproductive success and minimize the energetic costs associated with nest tending in males.