The ecology of Latimeria chalumnae Smith: results of field studies from Grande Comore

Abstract

Deep-water line-fishing off the coast of Grande Comore during 1972 produced a much lower catch rate than similar fishing from other Indian Ocean islands in 1970. Echo-soundings showed mainly uniform steep slopes between 100 and 500 m depth except off Iconi where a large steeply ridged shoulder at 300-400 m was revealed. The probable limitation of Latimeria to the coastal areas of Grande Comore and nearby Anjouan is discussed in relation to these findings, to the published catch records, and to possible environmental factors.