First assessment of Microcosmus sabatieri (Tunicata : Ascidiacea) small-scale artisanal fishery in the south Aegean sea (Eastern mediterranean)

Abstract

The small-scale artisanal fishery of the edible turricate Microcosmus sabatieri was studied in the South Aegean Sea. Mean abundance was 156 +/- 53 ind.20' dive(-1) and the pattern of distribution was even. Size-frequency analysis indicated a mode around 10 cm at all surveyed islands; nevertheless, significant differences on mean size of the ascidians were observed, as average size decreased eastwards, probably related to increased demand.