Reproductive characteristics of Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus on artificial reefs in different jurisdictions

Reproductive activity of Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus (Poey, 1860) at artificial reefs (ARs) are only recently being investigated. Yet, the management fishery differs on a regional basis with state and federal jurisdictions, reproductive differences among regions have not been To compare L. (inshore) (offshore) individuals were collected in northwestern Gulf Mexico from four ARs quarterly for 2 yrs. Inshore sites exhibited fishing pressure year round whereas offshore had season open during few months summer. Collected measured weight length, then aged, sexed, phase identified using following metrics: resting, spawning capable, actively spawning, regressing. Individuals all phases three sites. Spawning was observed April to September, June as induction peak period. Hydrated oocytes observed, which indicated imminent within 12 h. Although 79% female combined mature based phase, most fish small, young, inshore made up 12% females. Several compared sites, yet higher We suggest that capable when those several years age, but younger, barely comprised majority. Thus, include their life cycle directly spawn given enough time achieve maturity. However, fisheries should consider enforcing restrictions depending jurisdiction allow before capture both jurisdictions. • similar capacity jurisdiction. spanned September starting June. Of females them Further region-based be considered successful spawning. Artificial essential reproduction little natural cover.