Distribution of Tailor (Pomatomus saltatrix) Larvae along the Coast of New South Wales, Australia

Abstract

The distribution of tailor (Pomatomus saltatrix) larvae is described on the basis of the results of four plankton surveys undertaken in northern and central New South Wales (NSW) coastal waters. These comprised a single survey during May 1989 along the northern NSW coast and multiple surveys in January, March and May 1983 between Sydney and Brisbane. Pomatomus saltatrix larvae occurred throughout the survey period, with the highest abundances on the northern NSW coast. Most larvae were caught in mid and outer continental shelf waters at water temperatures of ≥22�C. The only known spawning locality for P. saltatrix is in the vicinity of Fraser Island in southern Queensland from August to October. The occurrence of larvae along the NSW coast from January to May indicates that the spawning season of P. saltatrix is more extensive than previously reported and that spawning occurs along the east coast of Australia in localities other than Fraser Island. Further surveys of larvae in southern Queensland and northern NSW waters, especially from August to December, are required to determine if P. saltatrix has one extended or two discrete spawning seasons along the eastern coast of Australia.