Management of a Tropic Fish Pot Fishery for Maximum Sustainable Yield
Reports research concerning the degree of exploitation of each of ten principal fish species harvested by the pot fishery, operating on the Southwest coast of Puerto Rico. Estimates growth and mortality rates for various species. Applies Beverton-Holt yield model to determine over- or under-exploitation and recommends appropriate management procedures for the fishery. Growth and mortality data, as well as relative yield estimates, were obtained by measuring fish size during three sampling periods, and analyzed according to species, location, and fish pot mesh size for each fishing season. Results distinguished two over-exploited from five under-exploited species on the basis of size. Several management alternatives, concerning altering fish pot mesh size and regulating pot density in certain areas, are considered. Aims at improving yield without depleting certain species and/or creating problems regarding marketing undersize fish. Includes project summary in Spanish.