Population parameters and simulation of the yield per recruit of Salminus brasiliensis (Cuvier, 1816) from the upper Paraná River - DOI: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v26i3.1593

Abstract

The “dourado” Salminus brasiliensis (Characidae) is caught in all types of fisheries conducted in the upper Paraná River. However, a decline has been observed in the quantity of S. brasiliensis harvested in recent years. In this paper, we deal with simulation of yield per recruit, in order to evaluate ongoing fishery regulation. We expect to generate information that guides the conservation of this species. Data from the artisanal fishery were gathered from October 1986 to September 1988, in the city of Porto Rico. In that region, to catch the “dourado”, fishers use gillnets, hook and line, long lines and branch hooks. Simulations of yield per recruit were performed under diverse scenarios of fishing mortality and minimum size of capture, using the equilibrium model of Beverton and Holt, modified by Jones. Simulations showed increase in the yield per recruit when minimum sizes of capture were 60cm and 65cm, suggesting that a review of ongoing fishery regulation is needed. In addition, adjustments in dam operations during the spawning season of the species, and protection and prohibition of the fishery in nursery and spawning areas are suggested