A Comprehensive Study on Sustainable Fisheries and Environmental Factors in an Eastern Mediterranean Freshwater Lake

It was aimed to determine the fishery potential of a freshwater lake in the Eastern Mediterranean where fishing is prohibited, however considered to be reopened for fishing activities. Kocagöl is located on the western part of the Turkish Mediterranean coast. Fisheries is important for the local people for livelihood. Especially, the Mugilid catch is important for local Mediterranean small-scale fishermen. Fishery related parameters (Catch per Unit Effort, growth, mortality, exploitation rate, reference points), biomass, physical (temperature, salinity, pH, turbidity and dissolved oxygen) and chemical (nitrite nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, ammonium nitrogen and total phosphorus) water parameters were determined. A generalized linear model was established between catch and physical environmental parameters. In general, exploitation rates of the main target, Mugilidae, species are at safe levels. However, selectivity and Lopt parameters showed that the mesh sizes should be increased to provide more sustainable fishery in the area. A controlled fishing practice in this fragile and sensitive area will constitute an environment for the sustainable use of fishery resources in the region. According to results, limit reference points are better for fisheries management plans. This study is an example for eastern Mediterranean freshwater fishery management regulations.