The marine linefish resources of Moçambique (status, development and future research)

Marine line-fishing is seen to be of major importance to the social well-being and economy of many coastal people of Mozambique. Aspects of the artisanal and semi-industrial fisheries of Mozambique are described and a recent significant increase in effort is noted. Landings are seen to comprise a high proportion of vulnerable, endemic species, several of which are shared with neighbouring South Africa. Trends in CPUE, sex ratios and yield per recruit suggest that future landings may decline if conservative management is not introduced. Strategies for data collection and biological research on key species are proposed.