Biology, ecology and conservation of the IUCN endangered sciaenid Argyrosomus japonicus in global estuarine and marine waters.

Abstract

Argyrosomus japonicus, a widespread estuarine and coastal sciaenid, is listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Threatened Species Red List. In this review, we conduct an updated assessment of the global status of A. japonicus, an important commercial, recreational and artisanal fisheries species. A wide variety of topics are covered, including a synthesis of our knowledge on A. japonicus reproduction; the larval, juvenile and adult life stages; physiology and behaviour; growth and maturity; food and feeding ecology; predators and parasites; drivers of population status; and the evolution and genetics of the species. Adaptation to low salinities and occupation of estuarine nursery areas by this species may have facilitated the evolution of late maturity and longevity, largely through reduced natural mortality, particularly for juveniles. However, unsustainable fishing mortality and estuarine nursery area degradation have compromised the stock status of A. japonicus. Four management measures are highlighted for the future: (1) maintaining spawning stock biomass and reproductive capacity by restricting fisheries that target spawning aggregations, (2) reducing negative anthropogenic impacts on estuaries, (3) facilitating estuarine protection areas for known nursery habitats of the juveniles and (4) reducing juvenile fishing mortality by implementing suitable size limits and bag limits.