The European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) is a small pelagic species of significant ecological and economic value in the Mediterranean basin. Effective fisheries management requires understanding its reproductive dynamics, especially under shifting environmental conditions. This study characterized the reproductive condition of E. encrasicolus along the Catalan coast and assessed whether reproductive maturity occurred simultaneously in two regions: Escala and Tarragona.
A total of 150 individuals were sampled from February to April 2025 using ICATMAR’s monitoring protocol. Macroscopic gonadal staging, biometric measurements (e.g., total length, body and gonad weight), condition factor (K), and fat index were recorded. Histological analysis of a female subsample (15 per catch) validated oocyte developmental stages.
Reproductive activity was present in both regions; however, Tarragona individuals, especially females, exhibited more advanced reproductive traits by April. Southern fish showed higher gonadosomatic index (GSI), greater somatic growth, and earlier histological indicators of spawning. Fat index and condition factor trends also suggested higher reproductive investment in the south. Histology revealed late vitellogenic oocytes and post-ovulatory follicles in southern females, while northern counterparts remained at earlier stages. A 3.4% intersex incidence was noted in males from Escala.
These findings support asynchronous spawning along a latitudinal gradient, with implications for region-specific fisheries management.
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