POTENTIAL OF A TRAP-FISHERY FOR DEEP-WATER ROCK LOBSTER PALINURUS-DELAGOAE OFF SOUTH-AFRICA

An experiment to investigate the potential of a trap-fishery for deep- water rock lobster Palinurus delagoae was conducted off the east coast of South Africa between 1994 and 1996. The 75-425 m depth interval be tween 27 degrees S and 32 degrees S was stratified according to depth and latitude, and three regions (North, Central and South) were sample d systematically over the three years. Sampling by commercial vessels operating long-lines and traps included an experimental phase (fixed f ishing positions) and a commercial phase (no restriction on fishing lo cation). Generalized linear models were used to investigate the influe nce of year, region, sampling phase, month and soak time. Sampling pha se was significant, with traps set during the commercial phase catchin g more than those set in the experimental phase. The effect of soak ti me on catch rates was not significant. The almost-50% decrease in the combined abundance index combined with a marked decrease in mean lobst er size over the study period suggests a relatively low fisheries pote ntial for this species in South African waters; this may be attributab le to the relative scarcity of suitable habitat in the area.