https://www.fao.org/gfcm/publications/studies-reviews/99/en/ Maturity is one of the most relevant biological parameters used in stock assessment programmes. Indeed, the macroscopic stage of gonadal development is an essential feature in estimating the maturity ogive and spawning stock biomass (SSB). It is also useful for determining the spawning season of a species and for monitoring long-term changes in the spawning cycle, as well as for many other research needs related to the biology of fish.