Age and Growth of the Bull Shark in the Western North Atlantic Ocean

Abstract

Age and growth estimates for the Bull Shark Carcharhinus leucas were derived from 121 vertebral centra collected from Bull Sharks (59.1–223.5 cm FL) between 1966 and 2010 in the western North Atlantic Ocean. Size at birth was confirmed with an additional 20 embryos (44.2–54.4 cm FL). The maximum age based on vertebral band pair counts was 25 (184 cm FL) and 27 (196 cm FL) years for males and females, respectively. The logistic and Gompertz growth models fitted the size-at-age data best for males and females, respectively. Based on previously published estimates of length at maturity, males mature at 15–17 years (176–185 cm FL) and females at 15 years (189 cm FL). Bull Sharks in the western North Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico have similar growth rates and reach similar sizes at age.

Received December 2, 2013; accepted February 4, 2014

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We would like to thank the commercial and recreational fishermen who allowed us to sample their catches and all the scientists and observers who obtained samples. We would also like to acknowledge the support of the Apex Predators Program staff both past and present, in particular Brian Gervelis, who sectioned many of the samples. This study was supported in part by funding from the Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration, Project F-43, and by State of Florida Saltwater Recreational Fishing License monies. Reference to trade names does not imply endorsement by the National Marine Fisheries Service.

Notes

Fork lengths calculated using the equation in this study are indicated by an asterisk.