Demographics and reproductive characteristics of threatened Malabar pufferfish (Carinotetraodon travancoricus) from Western Ghats hotspot, India

Abstract

Context Carinotetraodon travancoricus is a threatened ornamental aquarium fish endemic to Western Ghats (WG) biodiversity hotspot of India and indiscriminate collection of this species resulted in a severe population decline. Aims To understand the impacts of wild collection of C. travancoricus for aquarium-fish trade, information on their population status and reproductive characteristics is required. Methods Specimens for the present study were collected from the Chalakudy River of WG and growth, mortality, exploitation and reproductive characteristics of C. travancoricus were investigated. Key results The natural mortality of the species was higher than the fishing mortality. The peak spawning period of the species was from May to September. Length at first maturity (L50) for males and females was estimated to be 18.4 and 18.1 mm respectively. Conclusions The stock of C. travancoricus in the Chalakudy River may be in near full exploitation under current harvesting strategy. The lower value of length of first capture than size at first maturity indicated that C. travancoricus is likely to be captured before it matures and breeds, subsequently contributing to declining recruitment. Implications A combination of different strategies (closed fishing seasons, mesh-size regulation and no-fishing areas) will improve sustainable management and conservation of species.