Migratory behavior of aggregating male Tiger Grouper (Mycteroperca tigris) in Little Cayman, Cayman Islands

Abstract Tiger Grouper ( Mycteroperca tigris ) form fish spawning aggregations (FSAs) around the winter full moons (typically January through April) in Caribbean. Males defend territories to attract mates a lek-like reproductive strategy. Prior studies have documented rapid declines populations with FSA-associated fisheries. This study examines migratory behavior of adult male Little Cayman, Cayman Islands, better understand impacts aggregation fishing. As part Moon Project, we acoustically tagged ten at western end February 2015. Using hydrophone array surrounding island, tracked movements for 13 months. We observed 3 strategies: resident n = 2) that live FSA site, neighboring 5) within 4 km and commuter 3) travel over spawning. Fish began aggregating 2 days before moon left 10–12 after moon, from May. Regardless strategy, all aggregated 2015 returned west FSA. However, 2016, one appeared attend different closer its presumed home territory. may establish multiple FSAs males appear near their territories. Protracted seasons, site infidelity, putative catchments should be considered ensure sustainable fisheries management this important species.