Abstract

Historically, Nassau grouper (Epinephelus striatus) was a key component of fisheries in the Wider Caribbean Region. However, because of high fishing pressure particularly targeting spawning aggregations, populations of E. striatus have declined dramatically throughout its range and this iconic species is now regionally endangered. The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) have one of the healthiest remaining populations of Nassau grouper, possibly as a consequence of low fishing pressure on spawning aggregations, since local fishers predominantly target spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) and conch (Strombus gigas) specifically. In order to assess the extent of aggregation fishing, we conducted semi-structured interviews with local fishers (n = 40) throughout the TCI. In addition, during the presumed spawning period (December to February) we monitored landings in South Caicos, the main fishing island. All fishers interviewed were aware that Nassau grouper formed large schools seasonally, but only 38% of them had either seen or fished an aggregation. While all trap boat fishers targeted E. striatus spawning aggregations, only 19% of free-diving fishers did. Catch per unit effort from aggregations differed substantially between trap fishers (85 kg/person/day ranging from 4 to 425 kg) and spear fishers (30 kg/person/day ranging from 0 to 76 kg). Furthermore, over the spawning season trap boats caught 8 to 22 metric tons of Nassau grouper, while free-diving boats landed between 4 to 6 metric tons from aggregations. While these values are relatively low compared to historical records from other locations, spear fishing on aggregations appeared to be increasing. As a proactive measure, in 2015 a closed season (December 1 to February 28) was introduced with widespread stakeholder support following public consultations.

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