Effects of oceanographic conditions on fishery distribution: A case study of chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) in northeastern Taiwan

Abstract

Changes in oceanographic conditions can affect species distribution in marine habitats. Global climate change may negatively influence the oceanographic factor-species distribution relationship. Here, we assessed the influence of oceanographic conditions on chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) distribution in northeastern Taiwan by constructing and using a habitat ensemble model incorporating chub mackerel fishery, climatic oscillation, and oceanography data. Our results indicated that the chub mackerel catch was mainly influenced by the Western Pacific Oscillation. Moreover, sea-surface height and mixed-layer depth exerted the most and least significant effects on chub mackerel distribution, respectively. The chub mackerel catch rate peaked in the study area with a sea-surface temperature of 29 degrees C, sea-surface chlorophyll of 0.25 mg/m3, sea-surface salinity of 33.7 ps mu, and SSH of 0.575 m. Chub mackerel was the most widely distributed in the area between 25 degrees N, 120.5 degrees E and 26.2 degrees N, 121.5 degrees E. Our findings can be used to develop critical adaptation plans for managing chub mackerel fisheries in the northeastern waters of Taiwan. Considering changing climate conditions globally, the incorporation of this knowledge into managerial strategies may aid decision-makers in protecting not only other ocean fisheries but also individuals dependent on them.