Conflicting perceptions on the life-history covariates of density-dependent recruitment based on information-generating equations

Abstract

Abstract The stock–recruit steepness (h) and compensation ratio are alternative measures of the degree of density-dependent recruitment. They relate similarly to the longevity-related life-history traits (LRLHTs), but studies using information-generating equations and describing such relationships convey three conflicting perceptions. Perception 1 is that h and the compensation ratio decrease as longevity increases and are highest in short-lived, high-productivity species. This perception, usually believed to be inherent in the definition of steepness, is not substantiated by the very definition and, hence, theoretically is wrong. Perception 2 is that h and the compensation ratio increase with longevity and are highest in long-lived, low-productivity species; this perception may occur when the relationships between natural mortality and other LRLHTs are strong, and is most likely correct. Perception 3 is that h and the compensation ratio are independent of LRLHTs; this perception may be caused by the lack of the relationships between natural mortality and other LRLHTs, and is a distortion of perception 2.