Towards a métier-based assessment and management approach for mixed fisheries in Southeastern Mexico

Abstract

In the Southeastern region of Mexico, fisheries are complex encompassing several fleets that target multiple species with the use of multiple gears. Despite this complexity, they have traditionally been assessed and managed using a single-species approach. Here it is contended that disentangling fishing operations of mixed fisheries (MF) could improve knowledge, that can help generate sound advice for the management of these fisheries. The aim of this paper was to understand the dynamics of fishing operations of the MF that involves participation of three fleets throughout the use of the métier's approach. It was assumed here that differences in catch composition among fleets exist, despite they have access to the same resources, and it will be reflected in the métiers. By segmenting the fleet and disentangling the fishers' operations, discrete units can be identified and analyzed, improving understanding of these fisheries. Segmentation of the fleet resulted in 16 métiers, which showed differences in catch rates, quasi-rent rates, and species composition. To analyze differences, linear mixed models and a dissimilarity-based test for homogeneity of multivariate dispersions analysis were undertaken. Three performance groups of métiers were observed: a) métiers oriented towards low diversity of species focusing mainly on high-value species and involving low trip costs; b) métiers comprising few valuable species but high diversity in species composition; and c) a combination of both types. Based on the results, a management framework that accounts for the identified segments is proposed and adaptations in the assessment and management of these fisheries are advised.