Scientific basis for the fishery management of the fat snook (Centropomus parallelus) in Barra del Colorado, Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Central America
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15517/s6hs1113Keywords:
artisanal fishery; Colorado River; northern Caribbean, protandric hermaphroditism; snook.Abstract
Introduction: The fat snook (Centropomus parallelus) is a snook species of fisheries importance in the northeastern Caribbean region of Costa Rica. Its distribution includes lagoon systems, rivers, and marine-coastal areas, where it performs key ecological functions. In this region, the species is a valuable resource for commercial fishing, subsistence, and recreational fisheries.
Objectives: To analyze the biological and fishery data for fat snook, with emphasis on size distribution and gonadal development, to provide inputs for the development of a management plan for the species in Barra del Colorado, Costa Rica.
Methods: Between December 5, 2019 and April 30, 2025, periodic visits were made to two landing sites where biometric data were collected from the specimens captured. These data were supplemented with records from the 1999–2000 season of fish captured in the same area. A size-structure analysis was conducted by sex, season, and fishing gear, along with an evaluation of the sex ratio by season.
Results: The presence of fat snook in the coastal area of Barra del Colorado varied between seasons, occurring from July to March, with a peak between October and January. A total of 4 899 specimens were analyzed. Of these, 53.8 % were females, 34.3 % males, and 11.8 % of undetermined sex. Smaller-size individuals were predominantly males. From 45.1–50.0 cm onward, most individuals were females. More than 75% of the specimens were captured in stage III, indicating that they were caught before having spawning during the season.
Conclusions: The information shows that coastal lagoons, the Colorado River, and the marine area in front of Barra del Colorado are spawning areas where individuals aggregate for several weeks. It is recommended to establish a closed season of at least two days per week during the spawning peak, as well as a minimum catch size of 45 cm total length. At the same time, future studies should be promoted in the lagoons near the coastal area and in different sections of the Colorado River to identify key nursery and feeding areas.
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