Title
Conference Abstract: Artisanal fisheries catch highlights hotspot for threatened sharks and rays in the Republic of the Congo
Author(s)
Philip D. Doherty; Godefroy de Bruyne; Baudelaire Dissondet; Emmanuel Dilambaka; Gaston Ngassiki Okondza; Benoit C. Atsango; Appolinaire Ngouembe; Tite R. Akendze; Richard J. Parnell; Morgane Cournarie; Richard Malonga; Brendan J. Godley; Kristian Metcalfe
Published
2022
Abstract
Global catch rates of sharks and rays from artisanal fisheries are underreported with a lack of data on landings, forming a major barrier to developing effective management plans. We undertook the first systematic quantitative assessment of sharks and rays landed by an artisanal fishery in the Republic of the Congo to address this knowledge gap. Across 507 sampling days, 73,268 individuals were recorded from 42 species; 81% of which are considered at an elevated risk of extinction. Observed landings were dominated by immature individuals, especially species of conservation concern such as scalloped hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna lewini) and blackchin guitarfish (Glaucostegus cemiculus). Individuals from species thought to have largely disappeared from the region such as the African wedgefish (Rhynchobatus luebberti), as well as new records of smoothback angelshark (Squatina oculata) were identified suggesting that Congolese waters are a potential stronghold that warrants increased protection. Intra-annual variation was shown to occur in catch levels, but no evidence of inter-annual variation, suggesting seasonal fluctuations, but consistent levels of catch year-on-year. An interaction effect between species and temporal scales occurred whereby intra- and inter-annual trends were evident for some species. Overall catch of sharks and rays was higher between the short-wet and long-wet seasons (January-February) and towards the end of the long-dry season (August-September), with lowest level of shark catch observed during the short-wet and short-dry seasons (October-December). These findings emphasise the need to increase engagement with the artisanal fisheries sector to fill key knowledge gaps, that may identify hotspots for otherwise imperilled species.
Keywords
Africa; bycatch; conservation; management; small-scale fisheries

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