Population Dynamics of Seabreams (Pagrus caeruleostictus, Pagellus bellottii, Dentex angolensis and Dentex congoensis) from the Coast of Ghana, West Africa

Abstract

Stock assessment indicators of Pagrus caeruloestictus, Pagellus bellotti, Dentex angolensis and Dentex congoensis from Ghana’s coastal waters were estimated between July 2018 and June 2019. Total length measurements of 2489 samples were collected from some selected coastal communities along the Greater Accra region of Ghana and analyzed using FISAT II Tool. The asymptotic length (L∞) for P. caeruleostictus, P. bellottii, D. angolensis and D. congoensis was 39.9 cm, 31.5 cm, 31.5 cm and 28.4 cm, respectively. The growth rate (K) was 0.18 yr-1 for P. caeruleostictus, 0.36 yr-1 for P. bellottii, 0.75 yr-1 for D. angolensis and 0.83 yr-1 for D. congoensis. The current exploitation rate (E) for P. caeruloestictus, P. bellotti, D. angolensis and D. congoensis was above the optimum level of 0.5, indicating that these species are facing high fishing pressure. To ensure sustainable management of the overexploited fish species, the need for relevant management measures such extension of the closed fishing season, reduced fishing effort and others are urgently required.