Ramos González, Juliebeth

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    Characterization of recreational and commercial swordfish (Xiphias gladius) fishery in Puerto Rico
    (2024-05-16) Ramos González, Juliebeth; Cruz Motta, Juan J.; College of Arts and Sciences - Sciences; Estevez Amador, René F.; Rodríguez Ferrer, Grisel; Department of Marine Sciences; Lugo Beauchamp, Wilfredo E.
    The swordfish (Xiphias gladius) is a migratory species with a wide distribution in the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Mediterranean Oceans, the high economic value resulted in intense fishing pressure, which consequently led to a significant decline in the population of the Atlantic, reaching levels of exploitation. Concerns about the rapid decline of this species prompted implementation of regulatory measures, including minimum size requirements and catch quotas, aimed at revitalizing populations in Atlantic Ocean. While the precise population status of this species in Puerto Rico remains uncertain, multiple authors assert that movements take place in proximity to the island and are closely linked to feeding and mating areas. In Puerto Rico the characteristics of these fisheries are unknown, consequently the objective of this study was to understand three aspects of it: i) fishing practices, ii) population structure, iii) DNA barcoding for reliable identification. A total of 17 fisher that capture swordfish were identified around the island, which were interviewed to describe the characteristics of the fishing practices. This study revealed that the species is not subject to as significant targeting as initially assumed. The predominant method among fishers is the use of electric reels to target individuals at depths spanning from 400 to 600 meters, with a majority (52.2%) pursuing this activity for commercial gain. A total of seventeen samples of fish were collected during this study, out of which fifteen were subjected to sequencing for the purpose of population structure analysis. Furthermore, DNA barcoding analysis revealed that out of the 15 sequences generated, 13 species were correctly identified, while two were misidentified. Continuing fisheries censuses is recommended and conducting more detailed genetic studies is necessary to obtain more precise conclusions about the origin and status of the population.