Trends in catch and effort in Western African coastal lagoon system fisheries and their socio-economic implications

Abstract

Abstract Coastal lagoon systems in West Africa are highly productive ecosystems that constitute a critical foundation for local subsistence and economic activity. This study draws on demographic, effort, and catch data from Togo’s inland fisheries monitoring program to evaluate fishing practices and their socio-economic significance. Approximately 1,000 individuals are directly engaged in the fishery, predominantly Togolese nationals, although some foreign participation occurs. Women are primarily involved in post-harvest activities such as processing and trade. A variety of fishing gear are employed, with gill nets remaining the most widespread. Over recent years, a marked transition toward smaller mesh size gear (up to 20 mm) has been observed. The catch is dominated by cichlids (Sarotherodon melanotheron, Coptodon guineensis), mullets (Mugil cf. cephalus, Neochelon falcipinnis), catfishes (Clarias spp., Chrysichthys spp.), and the clupeid Ethmalosa fimbriata, with cichlids contributing on average 34 ± 30% of annual landings. The fishery generates substantial revenues, exceeding 1 billion FCFA (≈1.67 million USD) annually. However, the increasing prevalence of small-sized individuals, coupled with declining catches of medium- and large-sized fish, reflects a shift in exploitation patterns associated with the widespread use of small mesh sizes. These findings emphasize both the ecological and socio-economic importance of Togo’s coastal lagoon fishery and underscore the necessity of implementing sustainable management measures.