The onset of spawning in the silver pomfret, Pampus argenteus (Euphrasen), in Kuwait waters and its implications for management

Abstract The spawning periodicity of silver pomfret, Pampus argenteus (Euphrasen), was investigated against a background of conflicting evidence on the onset of spawning in this species. Contrary to the existing view that silver pomfret in Kuwait waters begin to spawn in March–April, evidence is presented that indicates a delay in spawning until May. Only an insignificant level of spawning takes place in April which, from the management point of view, may be ignored. The species has a prolonged spawning period extending from May to August in females, although the males mature in April and ripe specimens are encountered in monthly samples until September. There are two spawning peaks, the first one in May and the second in August.