Analysis of the fishery and population dynamics of the atlantic thread herring (Opisthonema oglinum) in Yucatán, Mexico

Abstract

The artisanal fishery of Atlantic thread herring (Opisthonema oglinum) in the coastal region off Celestún, Yucatán, began in 1991 in response to an increase in the demand, by the Yucatán industrial fishing fleet, to use it as bait in the capture of other demersal species. A characterization of the fishery in terms of fishing methods, fishing grounds and catch composition is made for the 1993-94 period. The estimated mean catch per trip was 344 kg, obtained in nine effective hours of fishing. The variable costs per trip are lower than the incomes, but there is not enough information to make inferences about the economic aspects of the fishery. A preliminary analysis of the population dynamics of this species was carried out. The estimated growth parameters were: L∞ = 227 mm FL and K = 0.68/year. Recruitment patterns showed a long period throughout the year, with a maximum in summer.