Serranids are important components of artisanal
and commercial catch worldwide, but are highly
susceptible to overWshing. In Pohnpei (Micronesia), a
recent coral reef Wsh market survey revealed a reliance
on night-time spearWshing and a serranid catch
composed primarily of juveniles and small adults of
practically all epinepheline species. Fishing eVort was
concentrated in one of Wve municipalities and was disproportionate
to the population distribution. Lagoon
areas were Wshed preferentially to outer reef areas,
with both catch size distribution and species composition
similar between the two areas. Some species were
unique to a particular gear type, but catch composition
did not vary substantially between spear and line
Wshing. Existing seasonal sales bans, meant to protect
reproductively active serranids, appeared to place
additional pressure on other families during ban periods.
The study identiWed the need for a comprehensive
management plan that merges traditional measures,
including size limits and gear restrictions, with precautionary
management tools. SpeciWcally, the scale and
scope of marine protected areas should be increased to
protect juveniles and other life history stages over
wider areas than currently employed.