Evolution of catches and variability in the life history traits of the bonga shad, Ethmalosa fimbriata (Bowdich, 1825), a highly targeted small pelagic fish in West African coastal waters

International audienceAn updated study of the main life history traits of the bonga shad, Ethmalosa fimbriata (Bowdich, 1825), was undertaken in Senegalese coastal waters, together with an evaluation of the captures and fishing effort over the past 33 years. Captures varied considerably over the years, with a peak in 2001. The condition factor varied irregularly between the years. The reproductive period mainly occurred from January to July, the size at first sexual maturity was similar for both sexes (≈180 mm), and the absolute fecundity was very variable (133,000 ± 70,000 eggs, mean ± SD). Growth was rapid and variable with longevity of 6-7 years. These updated biological parameters indicated that the bonga shad is fullexploited in the area and that the fishing effort should be reduced and the permitted mesh size reviewed for conservation management measures