Study on biodiversity, catch composition and length frequency distribution around the fish aggregation device in Qeshm Island Persian Gulf

The objective of the present study was to determine the effects of fish aggregation device (FAD) deployment on biodiversity, catch composition and length frequency distribution in the Qeshm Island handline fishery. Two FADs were deployed in the Qeshm Island. Four biodiversity indices including Margalef, Shannon-Weaver, Simpson and Pielou and also catch composition and length frequency distribution were calculated and compared between FAD and non-FAD area among spring and fall seasons. Comparing catch composition between FAD and non-FAD area by simper analysis showed that Scomberoides commersonnianus, Acanthopagrus latus, Scomberomorus commerson, Argyrops spinifer, Nemipterus japonicas and Caranx sexfasciatus were responsible for 78.03 dissimilarity. However, Comparing catch composition between spring and fall seasons indicate that A. spinifer, C. sexfasciatus, Netuma thalassina, S. commerson N, japonicas and Pomadasys kaakan were responsible for 82.77 dissimilarity. Length frequency distribution of all species (except P. kaakan) was differed significantly between FAD and non-FAD area (P<0.05). All of the biodiversity indices were lower significantly around the FAD area (P<0.05). But no significant difference was found in biodiversity indices between spring and fall seasons (P>0.05). In other mean, limited species comprise the catch dominantly. Quantifying biodiversity on the basis of diversity indices is essential both for sustainable development policies and for addressing ecological issues, such as the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functions.