Abstract
This study constitutes a first approach of the use of a stereological method for estimating potential fecundity in cephalopods. Squid samples were taken in two regions from the south coast of Portugal. In Olhäo, commercial trawlers provided mainly immature squid during winter. In Quarteira, a summertime traditional jigg fishery provided maturing and mature squid, which were used in the fecundity estimates. A total of 38 female squid, Loligo vulgaris (Cephalopoda: Loliginidae), from all maturity stages were analysed. The results revealed that: (1) the development of the ovaries is monocyclic and the oocyte growth and development is asynchronous; (2) oogenesis proceeds in six histological stages, showing statistically different oocyte maximum diameters; and (3) the best estimate of potential fecundity seems to be obtained by counting all oocytes in the ovaries of the mature females in maturity stage IV
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