Spatial distribution analysis of red grouper (Epinephelus morio) fishery in Yucatan, Mexico

Statistical analysis of the red grouper (Epinephelus morio) fishery in the Yucatan continental shelf indicates that this species follows a constant pattern of spatial distribution through time. Using time series of relative abundance from 1984 to 2001 (commercial CPUE) by month and fishing area, red grouper distribution was addressed by means of serial correlation and ANOVA parametric tests. These methods showed that during each year, red grouper spatial distribution is significantly different in January and February. This period is characterized by the highest abundance, particularly in the fishing areas located at the eastern part of the continental shelf. The implementation of time or area closures to rebuild the stock should involve these findings in the analysis in order to determine the impact on the fishery. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.