Abstract
Accurate age estimates are key life history parameters for understanding growth, reproduction and susceptibility to exploitation. Using a combination of fin spine growth increments and bomb radiocarbon dating, we provide minimum age estimates for the small Atlantic squaloid shark, black dogfish (Centroscyllium fabricii) sampled in Greenland waters. Age estimates based on growth increments in the fin spine, just distal to the end of the pulp cavity, were obtained from males (N = 64) and females (N = 70), and von Bertalanffy growth curves were fitted. The maximum growth increment count was 36 in males and 35 in females. Males and females had similar growth rates, but females grew larger (Linf, females = 68 cm, Linf, males = 61 cm). To evaluate the fin spine age estimates, bomb radiocarbon dating on eye lenses were done on a selection of females. All individuals larger than 65 cm (total length) were older than the bomb pulse corresponding to an age of at least 53 years, while those smaller than 55 cm were younger. Therefore, we observe a discrepancy between age estimates obtained from fin spines and bomb radiocarbon dating, indicating that fin spines are unsuitable for ageing black dogfish, at least for the oldest individuals.
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The authors wish to thank three reviewers for their effort and comments that improved the manuscript throughout.
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RH designed the study, secured funding and was the primary author of the manuscript. TQ conducted laboratory work and co-analysed data. MF conducted laboratory work and co-analysed data. JO conducted the work related to radiocarbon dating and analysed those data. JN designed the study and co-wrote the primary text. PG co-funded the study and analysed the data. All authors contributed with text and review of earlier manuscript drafts.
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All specimens included in this study were caught as part of a standardized scientific survey conducted by the Greenland Institute of Natural Resources. The survey does not target black dogfish, but these are an unavoidable bycatch. All sampling followed the institutional guidelines that are in agreement with international standards and follow a strict protocol of the highest ethical standard.
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Hedeholm, R., Qvist, T., Frausing, M. et al. Age of black dogfish (Centroscyllium fabricii) estimated from fin spines growth bands and eye lens bomb radiocarbon dating. Polar Biol 44, 751–759 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-021-02832-5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-021-02832-5