Characterization of the scalloped hammerhead shark, Sphyrna lewini, fishery in the external area of Nicoya Gulf, Costa Rica

• Published in: Revista Ciencias Marinas y Costeras Vol. 1; pp. 175 - 195
• Main Authors: Zanella, I, Lopez, A, Arauz, R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Spanish
• Published: 01.01.2009
• Subjects: Marine; Sphyrna lewini; Sphyrnidae; ISE, Costa Rica, Puntarenas, Nicoya Gulf; ASW, Costa Rica; ASW, Costa Rica, Nicoya Gulf; I, Central Pacific
• ISSN: 1659-455X

This research sought to characterize the distribution of Sphyrna lewini in the external area of Gulf of Nicoya, central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, based on observations from a coastal artisanal fishery. From March 2006 to May 2007, scalloped hammerhead shark landings by the Tarcoles Artisanal Fishermen's Cooperative were analyzed. The total length of each shark, location of capture, and the gear used were recorded. A total of 273 sharks landed. It was determined that total length holds a positive linear relationship with the depth of the fishing area, as well as with the distance from the mouth of the Tarcoles River. The smaller sharks were caught in shallow waters, turbid and highly productive, providing food and shelter. As the sharks mature and attain larger sizes, they move towards deeper waters away from the Tarcoles River, out of the Gulf of Nicoya. This zone was identified as a primary nursery for scalloped hammerhead sharks, the reduction of fishing effort between March and May, was recommended.