Spatio‐temporal distribution of mutton snapper and dog snapper spawning aggregations in the South‐west Atlantic

Abstract Sites and periods of spawning aggregations of two important fishery resources, the mutton snapper, Lutjanus analis, and the dog snapper, Lutjanus jocu, were identified and validated along the Brazilian north‐east coast (latitude 8–15°S) using exploratory analysis of catch per unit effort (CPUE) data, gonadosomatic index analysis, and gonad histology. The CPUE analysis for both species allowed the identification of outliers and far outliers, representing fisheries with exceptional catches, which were used as proxies of possible aggregation. The presence of pre‐spawning and recent spawning signs (hydrated oocytes and post‐ovulatory follicles) in the ovary of females caught at sites with recurrent records of high CPUE allowed the validation of spawning activity at those specific sites for each species. All aggregation sites identified in this study were located on the outer shelf, close to the shelf break, a region that has been declared an Ecologically and Biologically Significant Marine Area. Comparison of two subregions showed significant differences in size structure of the fish sampled during landings, suggesting a fishing depletion effect in the north region. For both species, reproduction peaked twice in all regions studied, with a more marked peak during summer. However, spawning activity was observed in almost every month of the year, suggesting that seasonal closures could be more effective if combined with spatial measures. In the northern part of the study range, spawning grounds were found to lie just outside the boundaries of one of Brazil's largest marine protected areas. Inclusion of those grounds in the marine protected area would increase protection of these species and also mean increased protection of an Ecologically and Biologically Significant Marine Area, encompassing mesophotic reefs. The identification of these spawning aggregations sites on the north‐east coast of Brazil was conducted in collaboration with local fishers that traditionally use bottom handline. Co‐management approaches are suggested in view of the importance of these fishing sites for traditional fishing communities that may also face threats due to encroachment of mobile fleets.