Reconstruction of marine fisheries catches for Tuvalu (1950-2009)

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Reconstruction of marine fisheries catches for Tuvalu (1950-2009)

Tuvalu‘s total marine fisheries catches within its EEZ were reconstructed for the years 1950 to 2009. This reconstruction accounts for officially un- and underreported catches of artisanal and subsistence fishery sectors as well as the baitfish used in the pole-and-line tuna fishery. FAO data were used in combination with data from fish markets, regional reports and consumption data. Total reconstructed catches were estimated to be 69,631 t over the six decades, which is approximately 5 times larger than the amount reported by the FAO on behalf of Tuvalu (12,241 t). Total catches increased from 813 t·year-1 in 1950 to 1,607 t·year-1 by 2009. The majority of total catches were from the subsistence sector (87%). This investigation reveals the need for an improvement in the accounting of marine fishes catches by all fisheries sectors. Due to the heavy rates of fish consumption in Tuvalu, reliable estimation of catches and resulting resource management decisions will play a role in Tuvalu‘s future food security.