Abstract

Known spawning aggregation sites for commercial reef fishes from Puerto Rico consist only of several red hind (Epinephelus guttatus) sites and one each for rock hind (Epinephelus adscensionis), tiger grouper (Mycteroperca tigris) and mutton snapper (Lutjanus analis). Known non-commercial species spawning aggregation sites mentioned in the literature include: one each for the creole wrasse (Clepticus Parrae), stripped parrotfish (Scarus iserti), ocean surgeonfish (Acanthurus bahianus) and blue tang (Acanthurus coeruleus). In this study, we conducted an interview-based survey as a first step to identify additional potential sites throughout the entire Puerto Rican Archipelago including the islands of Mona, Desecheo, Culebra and Vieques. The survey targeted 50 key stakeholders consisting of commercial and sport fishers using skin-diving who were identified as knowledgeable, long-term users of local fisheries resources. Using charts and geographic information system (GIS) analysis, information was obtained about 27 past and 93 present “potential” (non-overlapping) spawning aggregation sites, spawning times, changes in species composition in time and space, spawning-site fidelity, as well as 76 sites supporting multiple spawning species. The information generated included a total of 61 species, though primarily snappers (12), groupers (11), jacks (8) and scombrids (4). In addition, a diverse and useful range of socio-economic and biological information was gathered, mainly from commercial fishers, which may prove useful in designating and managing potential MPAs

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