Trait Composition and Assemblage Structure Analyses of Lacustrine Fishes: Synthesizing a Proposal for Better Fishing Practices

Abstract

Fish provide ecosystem services and contribute to human well-being through fishing. In Chile, subsistence fishing provides food to local communities, whereas recreational fishing contributes to economic income via tourism. In the Lanalhue coastal lake basin, unregulated subsistence fishing and formal recreational fishing primarily target large fish species to ensure satisfactory catches and food provision. However, the development of unplanned fishing activities and lack of scientific knowledge can lead to socioecological conflicts and tension between users. To address this issue, this study focuses on improving fishing practices through the analysis of fish assemblages of the Lanalhue lake basin. The life cycle traits of each fish species were analyzed, as well as their abundance and biomass in each habitat. Twelve fish species were identified, and their distribution and abundance explain the differences in fish assemblage composition and structure among habitats. To promote better fishing practices, we propose four target species and specific management actions. These include defining fishing seasons, delineating fishing sites, and establishing fishing quotas. This approach, considering both community structure and functional aspects of fish assemblages, can serve as a valuable guide for developing sustainable fishing practices in the Lanalhue coastal lake basin.