Estimating peak breeding season, size at first maturity and variation in fecundity and egg-size at different sizes of Hilsa (Tenualosa ilisha)

Hilsa shad, Tenualosa ilisha, has recently gained momentum due to its taste, nutrition and demand. Imposing ban at peak breeding and setting up a minimum capture size are two of the most effective tools for conservation and management of any fish species. Although, Bangladesh government has been imposing ban on a particular time and set the minimum legal size, there is still contradictory information on these two issues. That is why, a study was carried out to determine peak season of breeding and first maturity of Hilsa collected across the natural habitats in Bangladesh. Variation in fecundity and egg-size at different sizes were also investigated. Peak breeding season was identified observing gonadosomatic index of female Hilsa all the year round. First maturity was estimated with Probit analysis.