Predictive model for landings of spiny lobsters (Panulirus argus ) at various minimum carapace lengths in southern Florida

Landings of spiny lobsters (Panulirus argus ) during the 8-month fishing season were simulated through the use of a bioeconomic model. Present regulation of the fishery is conducted by the state of Florida which imposes a minimum harvest size of more than 7.6 cm carapace length. The model, based on a modified yield-per-recruit approach, evaluated the management options under consideration which included no action or implementation of a fishery management plan developed by the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic Fishery Management councils. Based on selective criteria, the preferred option was implementation of a fishery management plan, using the optimum carapace length of more than 7.6 cm, ranging in size from 7.6 to 8.9 cm.