156 - Novel deep‐water spawning patterns of bonefsh (Albula vulpes), a shallow water fish

Title:

Novel deep‐water spawning patterns of bonefsh (Albula vulpes), a shallow-water fish

Authors:

Steven M. Lombardo · Aaron J. Adams · Andy J. Danylchuk

· Cameron A. Luck · Matthew J. Ajemian

Abstract:

Coastal marine fshes that form spawning aggregations most commonly exhibit a two-point movement pattern, with locations separated by migration: home range to spawning aggregation site and return to home range. However, the bonefsh, Albula vulpes, partakes in a unique three-point spawning migration. Bonefsh migrate up to 80 km from shallow water home fats to form nearshore pre-spawning aggregations (PSA) before moving ofshore to spawn. Although these broad patterns have previously been documented, details of the ofshore spawning-associated diving behavior have yet to be rigorously examined. Using active acoustic telemetry and sonar data in 2019 in Abaco, The Bahamas, we provide a complete account of bonefsh ofshore spawning movements and novel deep diving behavior to 137.9 m. Bonefsh were continuously observed at depths≥100 m for 2 h; a time period that included multiple depth changes and culminated in a spawning ascent to 67.3 m at 0.57 m s−1. These new data on bonefsh ofshore movements and deep dives, coupled with CTD data, suggest that bonefsh actively spawn at pycnoclines and thermoclines. Two previous tracking attempts (2013, 2018) at this location refect spatiotemporal plasticity in spawning, a behavior counter to other aggregation forming fshes. This is the frst detailed documentation of such deep spawning for a shallow water coastal fsh species. The ecological motivation for diving to the deepest depths remains speculative. Future work must examine the dynamic relationship between bonefsh diving behavior, spawning site selection, and oceanographic features.

157 - Fisheries science and marine education catalyze the renaissance of traditional management (rahui) to improve an artisanal fishery in French Polynesia

Title:

Fisheries science and marine education catalyze the renaissance of traditional management (rahui) to improve an artisanal fishery in French Polynesia

Authors:

Alexander Filous, Robert J. Lennox, Jean Pierre Beaury, Hinano Bagnis, Mathew Mchugh, Alan M. Friedlander, Eric E.G. Clua, Steven J. Cooke, Todd K. Fuller, Andy J. Danylchuk

Abstract:

.Coral reef fisheries provide important ecosystem services to coastal communities, yet in the Pacific Islands, many of these contemporary fisheries are threatened by overexploitation. Historically, Pacific Island societies successfully utilized community-based management and spatial temporal closures to regulate the harvest of marine resources. In recognition of their past success these actions are currently being reemployed throughout the region. However, in many communities, innovative approaches may be needed to revitalize such practices and adapt traditional management to contemporary societal needs and expectations. This study presents the case of Anaa Atoll, a remote Pacific Island in the Tuamotu Archipelago of French Polynesia, and the community’s efforts to conserve a culturally important but overexploited bonefish (Albula glossodonta) fishery. Ultimately, fisheries research, education, and the creation of Aire Marine Educative (a marine area that is managed by a local primary school) were successful in building social cohesion and supporting the renaissance of rahui (a traditional form of restricting access to resources and or territories) to manage this fishery. On March 1st, 2019, the community of Anaa reinitiated this tradition for the first time in centuries. Based on these experiences, and an ensuing increase in the Spawning Potential Ratio of the bonefish stock, it is proposed that nationally recognized local management systems that incorporate fisheries research, youth education, and the cultural practices of communities should be supported in the marine policies of the Pacific Islands and beyond.