Batch fecundity of Lutjanus carponotatus (Lutjanidae) and implications of no-take marine reserves on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia |
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Authors: | R D Evans G R Russ J P Kritzer |
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Institution: | (1) School of Marine and Tropical Biology, Centre of Excellence in Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia;(2) Environmental Defense, 257 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10010, USA |
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Abstract: | This study investigated body size to fecundity relationships of a reef fish species targeted by line fishing, and examines
the potential benefits of increased batch fecundity in no-take reserves compared to fished areas around the Palm, Whitsunday
and Keppel Island Groups, Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Lutjanus carponotatus batch fecundity increased with fork length in a non-linear relationship that was best described by a power function. Batch
fecundity differed by more than 100-fold among individuals, with a range from 7,074 to 748,957 eggs in fish ranging from 184
to 305 mm fork length. Furthermore, egg diameter increased with fish size. Based on underwater visual census, the potential
batch fecundity per unit area in all three island groups ranged from 1.0 to 4.2 times greater in the no-take reserves than
in the fished areas between 2001 and 2004. In 2002, a mean 2.3-fold difference in biomass between no-take reserves and fished
areas converted to a mean 2.5-fold difference in batch fecundity per unit area. Greater batch fecundity, longer spawning seasons
and potentially greater larval survival due to larger egg size from bigger individuals might significantly enhance the potential
benefits of no-take marine reserves on the Great Barrier Reef. |
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Keywords: | Marine reserves Lutjanus carponotatus Egg production Batch fecundity Great Barrier Reef |
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