The Introduced Butterfly Peacock (Cichla ocellaris) in Florida. IV. Socioeconomic Analyses

Abstract

Results of two 12-month creel surveys were used to estimate fishing effort, success, and the economic value of canal fisheries in the metropolitan Miami area. The total asset value for these sportfisheries was estimated at $15.5 million annually, most of which was contributed by anglers fishing for butterfly peacock (Cichla ocellaris) and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). The butterfly peacock received 56% more fishing effort than largemouth bass, and their estimated annual asset value was $6.6 million ($12,450/km). Angler catch rates for largemouth bass (0.30 and 0.41 fish/h) and butterfly peacock (0.64 and 0.85 fish/h) confirmed good fisheries for both species exist in these canals. These data indicate that on a surface area basis, canal fisheries in southeast Florida are some of the most socioeconomically important fisheries in the state.

Keywords:

• urban sportfishexcanals
• butterfly peacock
• largemouth bass
• exotic fish
• disturbed habitats.