Bathymetric trends of northeastern Brazilian snappers (Pisces, Lutjanidae): implications for the reef fishery dynamic

Abstract

The investigation of bathymetric distribution of five snappers caught along the Brazilian Northeastern coast by artisanal fleets through the analysis of the catch composition and relative abundance (CPUE) showed that, on the overall, fished mean size increased along depth and that particular species dominated the catch according to the depth strata. Mutton snapper, L. analis, yellowtail snapper, L. chrysurus, and dog snapper, L. jocu were mainly caught at intermediate depth (20-80m) whereas lane snapper, L. synagris, and silk snapper, L. vivanus, inhabit respectively shallow (<20m) and deep (>80 m) waters. Each fleet category exploited preferentially a particular combination of species and their size range. The fleet dynamic of the Northeast Brazil is technologically heterogeneous and determines the catch composition. Geographical distribution of the fishery and technical interaction between fleets and gears should be considered by the management of these species in order to maintain the sustainability of the stock and to guarantee the continuance of the resource.