Population dynamics of Japanese mantis shrimp (Oratosquilla oratoria) in the Yangtze estuary under the effects of multiple driving factors

Understanding the complex interplay of multiple drivers at different scales is important for fishery development. This study used abundance maximum sustainable yield model (AMSY) and generalized additive models (GAMs) to analyze the population dynamics of Oratosquilla oratoria in the Yangtze estuary under the influence of marine fishery and its relationship with environmental factors. And structural equation modelling (SEM) was employed to further reveal the interplay and relative importance of multiple drivers. The results showed this stock was overfished but has been recovering since 2019. There were significant correlations between biomass and temperature and depth environmental factors. Sediment discharge (positive) was identified as having the most significant total effect, followed by bottom temperature (positive) and fishing pressure (negative). This study highlights that in addition to controlling fishing activities, the significant impacts of other environmental factors should be considered when formulating policies to restore and protect O. oratoria in the Yangtze estuary.