Biology of Luciolates stappersi in Lake Tanganyika (Burundi)

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Abstract
The predator Luciolates stappersi (Centropomidae) is an important component of the pelagic fishery in Lake Tanganyika, Burundi, and an effective competitor of man for the valuable stocks of endemic clupeid fish. Annual landings of Luciolates (400-1,200 metric tons) vary widely, but the average catch has declined only slightly during 20 yr of purse-seine fishing. The major seasonal catch occurs in January-April and includes predominantly mature fish; juveniles are taken year around but mainly in August-October. Adults mature at around 210 mm fork length, and the period of maximum gonad development is January-April. Eggs and fry are planktonic. Growth was not estimated reliably but length-frequency progressions suggest average rates of 5 mm/mo for fish smaller than 100 mm, and 9 mm/mo for larger fish. The maximum size of Luciolates is about 450 mm, but most mortality occurs by the time fish reach 350 mm. A cohort contributes to the fishery for 3-5 yr. Young fish eat zooplankton but after they grow ...