Predator Effect of Atlantic Bonito on the Black Sea Anchovy and Their Sustainable and Optimal Fishery

Abstract

The Atlantic bonito (Sarda sarda) and Black Sea anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) fisheries in the southern part of the Black Sea currently lack a consistent harvesting strategy. To address this issue, a fishery model has been developed to optimize and stabilize the predator-prey relationship between these two species. This study offers an optimal and stable predator-prey relationship, resulting in higher landings and profits for the commercial fishery compared to the current harvesting strategy outlined in the study. The findings of this research can be utilized to determine sustainable yields and fishing quotas for these fisheries. Additionally, the examination of the predator-prey relationship between these species has revealed that, on an annual average, 93,259 tonnes of anchovy are consumed by the Atlantic bonito, which corresponds to approximately 46% of the estimated average anchovy landing. Furthermore, it has been observed that a 10% increase or decrease in the Atlantic bonito's feeding habits on the anchovy population leads to fluctuations in anchovy landings of up to 13% and anchovy profits of up to 40%.