Reef Fish Yield and Reef Condition for San Salvador Island, Luzon, Philippines

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Abstract
The annual reef fish yield has been estimated for San Salvador Island, Philippines, for 2 consecutive years. From April 1988 to March 1989, reef fish yields were approximately 7.0 t·km·2 .year1• Reef fish yield increased 100.0% to 14.0 t·km-2·year1 for the following year, primarily as a result of increased catches of juvenile fusiliers (Caesionidae). Catch per unit effort, however, did not significantly increase over the period of the study and has been estimated at 3.148 kg·work hour1 for the 2 years. This information forms a baseline for the future from which to analyze the impact of the establishment of a marine sanctuary and traditional fishing reserve on San Salvador Island. In order to assess the relative condition of San Salvador's fishery, these findings are compared to other coral reefs in the Philippines. San Salvador's reef has a low percent coral cover and low richness and density of fish, possibly as a result of the historic use of destructive fishing methods. However, findings indicate that a community-based resource management plan may have the potential to positively affect the island's fishery.

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