Embedding the effect of environmental conditions on recruitment and survival of the European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus): A Bayesian model with dual-time resolution

Abstract

Many studies underscore the importance of incorporating the effect of environmental data within a life-history-stage–specific framework for determining the recruitment and survival of small pelagic fish. The recruitment of anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) in the Gulf of Cádiz (NE Atlantic) is sensitive to the effect of intense easterlies, stratification of the water column, and discharges from the Guadalquivir River on early life stages. As a proof of concept, we have developed the basis for a new Bayesian model with a dual time step resolution: monthly for juveniles and adults, and weekly for earlier life stages. This dual time step resolution resolves environmental effects on prerecruits while simulating the effect of fishing on recruits. Our estimates for juvenile abundances are validated with field data. The Bayesian framework accounts for the uncertainty, thus providing consistent length-frequency estimates and a plausible environmentally driven stock-recruitment relationship.