Growth and mortality rates of ornate threadfin bream, Nemipterus hexodon, in Banate Bay, Philippines

Abstract

Growth and mortality rates of ornate threadfin bream Nemipterus hexodon in Banate Bay were analyzed using total samples of 2,417 from multiple hooks and line, handlines, and gillnets. The von Bertallaffy growth parameters L∞ K, and were 25.80 cm, 0.63 year-1, and 2.61, respectively. The mortality parameters Z, M, and F were 1.87 year-1, 1.38 year-1, and 0.49 year-1. The N. hexodon in Banate Bay is underfished (0.26 < E0.5 (0.49), this suggests that fishing efforts utilizing environmentally favorable gears can be increased by 47% to increase catch yield. This study gives estimates of growth and mortality rates, which may be utilized as biological input variables in future stock assessments in the bay. The Local Government Units (LGUs) surrounding Banate Bay should maintain their relevant effective fisheries management practices in order to have a sustainable supply of this species, as it is essential for both the supply of dietary protein and the livelihood of fishermen.