Study of the Relationship Between Ocean Environmental Parameters and Pelagic King Mackerel Fish Resources

Environmental parameters detected by NASA satellites are used to study habitat and to characterize the relationship between habitat and economically important pelagic fish resource, namely king mackerel (Scomberomorus cavalla). King mackerel spend much of their life in the surface mixed layer of coastal marine water and along a narrow range of ocean temperatures. Changes in the surface ocean should affect the fish distribution and apparent abundance. Analysis of physical parameters, such as ocean frontal boundaries (temperature, chlorophyll, turbidity) related to coastal plumes and Loop Current circulation are correlated with the mackerel catch data collected through a collaboration with fishermen during tournaments. Historic and realtime sea surface temperature and ocean color data are obtained from the AVHRR and MODIS sensors for waters off Tampa Bay, Florida where fish are caught. These data are combined with other oceanographic data (wind, thermocline depth) to define quantitative relationships between mackerel distribution and their ecosystem. ArcGIS and its geostatistical analyst extensions provide the necessary tools to map, interpret and statistically quantify fish and ecosystem relationships. Other oceanographic products useful for future climate-based ecosystem research will be studied and tested. Initial results show a higher percentage and quantity of fish caught in areas with baitfish than without. Mackerel are observed at an average surface temperature of 23 degree C with a standard deviation of plus or minus 1.36 degree C. The study will help understand critical habitat for oceanic pelagic fish and the factors that determine their abundance. Ultimately, conceptual models on the effects of ocean climate variability and anthropogenic pressures on ecosystem dynamics of king mackerel in coastal waters off Tampa Bay will be developed and will serve as the basis for future climate-based ecosystem research in other areas.