Dahlgren, C., Hixon, M.

Trip report - Nassau Grouper Spawning Migrations (part of: Marine Reserves and the Spillover Effect: Seascape scale movement of grouper and snapper)

2006

Perry Institute for Marine Science and Oregon State University

The overall goal of this ongoing research project is to understand fish movement on multiple spatial and temporal scales as it related to the design of marine protected areas and with respect to establishing fishery management measures for Nassau grouper. Preliminary results from this project suggest the following concerning management of Nassau grouper: - Long distance migrations of Nassau grouper out of the ECLSP suggest that protected areas are not sufficient to protect Nassau grouper during their spawning migrations. Thus, a closed season is necessary to vital protection during this critical period in the life cycle of Nassau grouper. - Individual Nassau grouper in the Exuma Cays make 1 spawning migration per year, with most migrating during the December full moon period (this may differ from other parts of the Bahamas). - Fish from throughout Exuma Sound migrate to the south towards Long Island to spawn. - With the exception of the 1-2 week period that they migrate to spawn, Nassau grouper remain in a relatively small home range. - Nassau grouper show strong site fidelity, returning to their home range after migrations. - While results suggest one potential incident of poaching, the closed season implemented for the winter of 2005-06 appears to have protected the majority of Nassau grouper.

FY2004 CRCP Project ID 1395; Project Title: International Coral Grants Program; Principal Investigator: Eileen Alicea