Biological traits and population dynamics of Chelon auratus in the Southeastern Black Sea with a perspective on sustainable fisheries management.

This study investigates, for the first time, the biological characteristics and population dynamics of the golden grey mullet (Chelon auratus) captured along the Southeastern Black Sea coast. A total of 324 specimens, comprising 142 females (43.83%) and 182 males (56.17%), were analyzed. The total lengths of all samples ranged from 16.5 to 38.8 cm, with an average size of 26.9 ± 3.714 cm, body weights varied between 37.76 and 568.56 g, averaging 172.475 ± 72.240 g. The length-weight relationships were determined as W = 0.0129TL for females, W = 0.0150TL for males, and W = 0.0158TL for overall, indicating negative allometric growth (b < 3) across sexes and overall. Asymptotic length values (L) were calculated as 45.12 cm for females, 43.97 cm for males, and 44.54 cm for overall individuals with growth performance (Φ') values of 1.390, 1.382 and 1.386, respectively. The age-length relationships were determined as L = 45.12 (1-e) for females, L = 43.97 (1-e) for males, and L = 44.54 (1-e) for overall. The condition factor (K) ranged from 0.739 ± 0.103 in June 2020 to 0.963 ± 0.054 in October 2020. The population was predominantly composed of 3-year-old individuals (40.91%), with ages spanning 1 to 6 years. The total length at first maturity (Lm) was calculated as 21.87 cm for females and 21.45 cm for males. Gonadosomatic index (GSI) analyses indicated that the reproduction period occurred from August to September. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the biological characteristics of C. auratus. These results will provide valuable data for future comparative studies and offer essential insights for policymakers aiming to promote sustainable fisheries management and the protection of golden grey mullet stocks in the Black Sea.