Reproductive ecology and growth of marine catfishes (Ariidae) supporting sustainable fisheries in Banc d’Arguin National Park, Mauritania

Marine catfishes, particularly the rough-head sea catfish (Arius latiscutatus) and Guinean sea catfish (Carlarius parkii), exhibit slow life-history strategies that render them vulnerable to overfishing. Research in Banc d'Arguin National Park, Mauritania, revealed these species have a single spawning season from May to June, with mouth brooding extending potential reproductive activity until August. Females reach sexual maturity at around 40 cm (A. latiscutatus) and 35 cm (C. parkii), corresponding to 4–5 years of age, with larger females producing more eggs (mean: 45 for A. latiscutatus; 26 for C. parkii). Growth patterns indicate isometric growth, though A. latiscutatus attains greater lengths. The study suggests implementing short-term fishing closures during the spawning period to sustain populations and fisheries, addressing critical knowledge gaps in local-scale fisheries management.

Correia, E., Carneiro, C., & Araújo, A. (2020). Reproductive ecology and growth of marine catfishes (Ariidae) supporting sustainable fisheries in Banc d’Arguin National Park, Mauritania. Marine Biology Research, 16(8-9), 593–599. https://doi.org/10.1080/17451000.2020.1855658