Spawning Phenology and Early Growth of Japanese Anchovy (Engraulis japonicus) off the Pacific Coast of Japan

The reproduction and early growth of fish are essential elements that affect recruitment provide breakthrough points for understanding population fluctuations. In this study, larval juvenile Japanese anchovy (Engraulis japonicus) were collected from five coastal waters off the Pacific coast Japan in 2020 2021 to gain more insight into life history traits such as species on basis otolith microstructure analysis. spawning period appeared be related temperature chlorophyll-a concentrations, showing latitudinal gradient variation among fishing areas. We detected a significant positive allometric pattern between standard length body weight. Gompertz model best fits length, an initial stage was quick accelerating. mean daily rate 0.64 ± 0.09 mm per day. A series mixed-effect models constructed investigate sources differences rates individuals. results revealed regional variability growth, with individuals central stock growing faster. Individuals grew slower heavier than those same indicating trade-off weight growth. individual positively influenced by environmental factors (surface water concentration), within school displayed striking homogeneity Our research demonstrates significance including both physiological characteristics influences studies fish.