Volume 58

Protecting Common Coral Trout (Plectropomus leopardus) Spawning Aggregations in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Australia


Authors
Russell, M.
Download PDF Open PDF in Browser

Other Information


Date: November, 2005


Pages: 289-294


Event: Proceedings of the Fifty Eighth Annual Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute


City: San Andres


Country: Colombia

Abstract

Common Coral Trout (Plectropomus leopardus) aggregate to spawn on the Great Barrier Reef. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, under consultation with the Society for the Conservation of Reef Fish Aggregations (SCRFA), has been assessing several key aggregation sites to help fill the information gaps on spawning site habitat, and timing for Common Coral Trout spawning in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. In 2004, Commonwealth and State Government management arrangements were introduced to protect coral reef fin fish on the Great Barrier Reef. Common Coral Trout spawning aggregations have been afforded some protection; 33% of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is now closed to fishing, and three nine day closures to reef fish fishing occur over the new moons in October, November and December each year, coinciding with the peak spawning activity of the species. This paper discusses Common Coral Trout spawning aggregations, their current management strategies and possible options for future management. In comparison two other species are discussed, the red throat emperor (Lethrinus miniatus) and the flowery cod (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus).

PDF Preview