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Marine Science

GUAM REEF FISH HIT BY OVERFISHING

GUAM REEF FISH

Guam reef fish hit by overfishing. A new assessment of 12 Guam reef fish species suggests that overfishing is likely occurring for four species, including the longface emperor. Others are in much better condition.

A briedfing article on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website states: “ Many fish species that inhabit coral reefs around Guam are of great importance socially, culturally, and economically. Reef fish are a valuable source of food for local fishermen, hold significance in the Chamorro culture, and draw tourists to explore their underwater habitats.

“Despite their importance to fisheries in Guam, there was little information on the population status of species such as the tataga’ (bluespine unicornfish), loru (various parrotfishes), tarakitu (various jacks), and fafa’et (humpback snapper). To determine this information for fishery managers, we collected data on fish numbers, sizes, and biology. We compiled these data from diver surveys, life-history studies, and commercial and recreational fishery catch.

“We used the distribution of body lengths of each species to calculate current fishing mortality rates. We combined this information with maximum known age, growth, and maturity data to calculate current stock condition. We then compared those conditions to well-established sustainability guidelines. This allowed us to provide information on which reef fish species are currently threatened by overfishing and to propose options for fisheries management.

“Our findings suggest that some fish species may be experiencing overfishing. Generally, fish that live the longest or fish that are highly targeted by fisheries were in poorer condition. For example, lililok can live for decades, are a popular target for fisheries, and are currently experiencing overfishing. Compare that with species such as the island jack (tarakitu) that only live up to nine years and are in better condition.

“Our assessment of 12 economically and culturally important species revealed that four are doing poorly and in need of effective management measures to support recovery:

  • Longface emperor (lililok).
  • Bluefin trevally (tarakitu).
  • Blacktail snapper (kaka’ka).
  • Redlip parrotfish (laggua).

“Ultimately, this assessment generated management options for a range of overfishing risk levels. These options will help managers as they weigh the stock status, in combination with other concerns, to establish management measures.”

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