Stock Status of Yellowbar Angelfish, Pomacanthus maculosus from Southern Arabian Gulf of the United Arab Emirates, Using Length Frequency Data

This study assessed the population structure, growth characteristics, mortality dynamics, recruitment pattern, and relative yield-per-recruit of the Yellowbar angelfish, Pomacanthus maculosus, in the southern Arabian Gulf of the United Arab Emirates over the period January–December 2024. Length-frequency data were processed using FiSAT software to derive major population parameters, including asymptotic length (L∞), growth coefficient (K), and recruitment pattern. The analysis produced an asymptotic length of 41.8 cm and a growth coefficient of 0.25 year⁻¹, while the growth performance index (Φ) was estimated at 2.64. The species displayed negative allometric growth (b < 3), with an estimated asymptotic weight (W∞) of approximately 1,723.5 g. Recruitment was observed throughout the year and was characterised by one dominant annual recruitment pulse. Analysis of the length-converted catch curve yielded an estimated total mortality (Z) of 1.01 year⁻¹, comprising natural mortality (M) of 0.65 year⁻¹ and fishing mortality (F) of 0.36 year⁻¹. The exploitation rate (E) was estimated at 0.36, slightly below the E₀.₅ value of 0.39, representing the exploitation level associated with a reduction of the stock to 50% of its unexploited biomass. Overall, the findings indicate that P. maculosus in the study area is currently subjected to a level of fishing pressure that remains within a sustainable range.