Length-Weight and Length-Length Relationships for Common Fish and Invertebrate Species in The North Inlet-Winyah Bay Estuarine System, South Carolina, USA

Establishing accurate weight-length relationships (WLR) and length-length relationships (LLR) is critical for effective fisheries management and ecological research. This study updates these essential metrics for commonly found fish and shrimp species in the North Inlet-Winyah Bay estuarine system, South Carolina, addressing gaps where previous data were unavailable, outdated, or sourced from other regions. Our research analyzed 7,874 specimens from 20 species across thirteen families, collected through trawl samples and bi-weekly seines from November 2022 to December 2023. The findings demonstrate robust WLRs with high coefficients of determination. Similarly, the LLRs confirmed reliable conversions between different length measurements. This study not only refines the understanding of species-specific growth patterns but also enhances regional fisheries assessments by providing updated, accurate biological models. The study provides first-time data for two species and significantly improves the sample sizes and data quality for several others.