Analysis of size spectra off northwest Africa: a useful indicator in tropical areas?

Stobberup, Kim A.; Inejih, C. A. O.; Traore, S.; Monteiro, C.; Amorim, Patrícia; Erzini, Karim

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.1/8768

Use this identifier to reference this record.

Name:	Description:	Size:	Format:
2005_Stobberup et al. ICES J Mar Sci.pdf		233.31 KB	Adobe PDF	Download

Send Feedback

Authors

Abstract(s)

Changes in the size spectra of demersal fish communities off Cape Verde (1988, 1994), Guinea (1985-1995), and Mauritania (1987-2001) were studied. Intercepts and slopes showed opposite trends for Guinea and Mauritania, but were relatively stable in spite of a strong increase in landings per unit area. For Cape Verde, there were marked changes in size structure, seemingly inconsistent with the more moderate fishing pressure there. Changes in size structure do not seem to be suitable indicators of the effects of fishing in areas characterized by faster growth rates, small sizes, high species diversity, and complex interrelationships, such as the tropics. (c) 2005 International Council for the Exploration of the Sea. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.