Fish Population Dynamic and Stock Assessment

3.1.3.2. Growth coefficient or curvature parameter (K)

3.1.4. Growth coefficient or curvature parameter (K)

This is a parameter of von Bertalanffy growth function, expressing the rate at which the asymptotic length is approached. Short lived species, particularly, tropical fishes attain their L$$\infty$$ in a year or two and such species have high ‘K’ value. The long lived species usually have low ‘K’ value and need many years to attain their L$$\infty$$ . Such long lived species have flat growth curve.