yearclasses
A yearclass refers to a group of organisms born or hatched within the same calendar year. This concept is fundamental in ecology and fisheries science, particularly when studying populations of fish, insects, mammals, and other species with distinct reproductive seasons. Understanding yearclasses helps researchers track population dynamics, estimate survival rates, and assess the impact of environmental factors on reproductive success.
For example, in fisheries, a strong yearclass might indicate favorable spawning conditions or high survival rates
The formation and success of a yearclass are influenced by a multitude of factors. These include water