Groupers are apex predators that are believed to play crucial roles in ecosystems, so any loss or decline of these species in coral reefs can adversely affect ecosystem stability. Epinephelus fuscoguttatus is currently categorized as vulnerable (VU) from its previous near threatened (NT) category. Information about their biological and ecological status is limited to assist in formulating management plans for the species in Kenya. Therefore, we aimed to provide baseline scientific information on the biology of E. fuscoguttatus, to enable formulation of sustainable management strategies. Sampling was conducted for 1 year at two fish landing sites along the Kenyan coast: Shimoni and Mayungu. Exploitation rate, size at maturity (L50), GSI, and fecundity were estimated. We found that E. fuscoguttatus was currently exploited above an optimum level, (E = 0.9). Length at maturity L50 was 59.50 cm for males and 48.2 cm for females, and mean fecundity was 509,121 eggs/female/year. The gonadosomatic index was highest in June and December, but ripe females were identified in several months to suggest a protracted spawning period. The exploitation rate of E. fuscoguttatus was not sustainable. Consequently, we recommend reducing fishing effort to biologically sustainable levels to enhance recovery.

The Pinkear Emperor (Lethrinus lentjan, Laćepède, 1802) is among the three demersal species dominating fish catches in the artisanal fishery on the Kenyan coast. Available data indicate that total landings of L. lentjan have declined over the past decade due to possible over-exploitation. This paper provides a brief account of the stock status of this species and biological aspects including length-weight relationship, body condition, and reproduction from a total of 575 fish specimens sampled. Sampling was done at Msambweni, Shimoni, Majoreni and Vanga fish landing sites on the south coast of Kenya from September 2016 to February 2017. Individual total length (TL, cm) and body weight (BW, g) was measured on site while some specimens were dissected for sex and gonad maturity analysis. Mortality, exploitation rate, length-weight relationship, condition factor, fecundity, and size at maturity (L50) were determined. Length frequency analysis indicated that L. lentjan was exploited above the optimum level, at E = 0.55 (exploitation rate). Growth was allometric with the length exponent (b = 2.95) being significantly <3. Mean fecundity was 89,573 ± 9,841 eggs/female/year. Gonadosomatic index was highest in January (2.08 ± 0.20) suggesting a possible peak spawning period at this time. The study provides a brief scientific overview of L. lentjan as a baseline for future in-depth biological studies of this species along the Kenyan coast. 

Aims and scope: The Western Indian Ocean Journal of Marine Science provides an avenue for the wide dissemination of high quality research generated in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region, in particular on the sustainable use of coastal and marine resources. This is central to the goal of supporting and promoting sustainable coastal development in the region, as well as contributing to the global base of marine science. The journal publishes original research articles dealing with all aspects of marine science and coastal management. Topics include, but are not limited to: theoretical studies, oceanography, marine biology and ecology, fisheries, recovery and restoration processes, legal and institutional frameworks, and interactions/relationships between humans and the coastal and marine environment. In addition, Western Indian Ocean Journal of Marine Science features state-of-the-art review articles and short communications. The journal will, from time to time, consist of special issues on major events or important thematic issues.