Distribution of the Argentine hake (Merluccius hubbsi Marini, 1933) in the Argentine Sea (41°-48°S) in relation to oceanographic parameters during winter (1996-2003)

Salinity and temperature data recorded during 1996-2003 within the distribution area of the Patagonian stock of Argentine hake Merluccius hubbsi were analysed. These oceanographic variables were then related to fluctuations in the abundance of the species by means of a generalized linear model. Mean bottom temperature and salinity fields were graphed and anomalies for this period were estimated. During 1998 and 2002 the highest and lowest mean temperatures were recorded, respectively, showing the most remarkable anomalies. Highest mean salinity was recorded during 1999 and in terms of anomalies during 2003 lowest salinities were recorded for the whole area. Highest juvenile concentrations were found in waters with bottom temperatures between 7 degrees C and 10 degrees C and salinities between 33.3 and 33.8 distributed to the north and within the San Jorge Gulf and in midshelf between the 50 m and 100 m isobaths, to the southern zone of the Valdes Peninsula. Adult concentration was higher at the centre of the shelf, decreasing towards the coastal sector, at approximately 6 degrees C and 9 degrees C and between 33.4 and 33.9. Regression coefficients evidenced highest juvenile abundances in shallow areas with low salinity, and highest adult abundances in regions with low temperature and high salinity. No spatial shifts in the distribution of the species were observed during marked temperature or salinity anomalies.