Estimation of lost revenue due to growth overfishing in the industrial fishery of Peruvian anchovy (Engraulis ringens)

Reynaga R.; Taylor M.; Salvatteci R.; Mendo J. · Fisheries Research (2026) · DOI: 10.1016/j.fishres.2026.107725

Resumen

The capture of fish at a size smaller than that which maximizes yield per recruit, referred to as “growth overfishing”, is a serious problem that has affected industrial Peruvian anchovy fishery throughout its history. The key aim of this study was to estimate lost revenue caused by growth overfishing of Peruvian anchovy (Engraulis ringens) during the period of 1953–2022, based on projections of the size composition in landings in the North-Central Region of Peru. The Thompson and Bell predictive model was used to project landings of all caught juvenile fish until they reach the minimum allowed catch size of 12 cm. Lost revenue was estimated by subtracting the historical landings value from the projected landings value. Our findings show that 107 billion juveniles are harvested on average per year, accounting for 39% of landings by numbers and 18% by weight. In addition, the highest percentage of juveniles in landings (number of individuals) were found in the months of January to March. The projection model estimated that if anchovy juveniles had grown to the minimum catch size of 12 cm, on average gains in landings would be 0.36 million t per year and revenue of 137 million USD per year. We also found that January was the month that recorded the highest average revenue losses with 35.5 million USD. Recommendations for improving the sustainability of the fishery are discussed in order to reduce the harvesting of anchovy juveniles.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina