Settlement, growth and mortality of 0-group plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) in Icelandic waters

This paper describes the results of a study on settlement, growth and mortality of 0-group plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) in Icelandic waters in 1999. Settlement of metamorphosing plaice in size between 9 and 14 mm TL was observed from the first sampling at the end of May. Over the survey period, densities increased to maximum numbers of about 10 individuals per 100 m2 at the end of June. Hereafter, numbers declined steadily until the end of September. The growth rate of juvenile plaice over the period June–August was estimated to be 0.6 mm d−1, which appeared to be maximal and only determined by prevailing water temperatures. Instantaneous mortality was estimated to be in the order of 0.03 d−1. Due to the almost complete absence of predatory crustaceans, this mortality is assumed to be caused by fish and bird predation.