This study examines the trends in Istiophoridae catch and the impact of environmental factors in the western Indian Ocean from 1999 to 2019, utilizing a Generalized Additive Model (GAM). The findings reveal a significant decline in annual catch levels, influenced by climate change and the El Niño phenomenon, particularly between 1999 and 2009. However, post-2009, improved environmental conditions and the implementation of effective management policies have contributed to a recovery in catch levels observed as early as 2012. The GAM analysis identified sea surface temperature, surface wind speed, and sea surface salinity as the primary variables affecting Istiophoridae distribution. Furthermore, the study assessed the effects of temperature and salinity on fish abundance, determining that optimal biodiversity is achieved at temperatures between 25 and 290C and a salinity level of 35 ppt. This research highlights the critical importance of continuous monitoring of environmental variables and the necessity for sustainable marine resource management. Such efforts are vital for preserving biodiversity and improving fishery conditions. The outcomes provide a foundational basis for developing effective management strategies aimed at the conservation and sustainable utilization of marine resources.
Bozorgomid K, Ghorbani R, Ghorbani K, Fazel A, Darvishi M, Haghii vayghan A. Trends in Catch and the Impact of Environmental Factors on Istiophoridae in the Western Indian Ocean. JAIR 2024; 12 (3) :11-20 URL: http://jair.gonbad.ac.ir/article-1-904-en.html