Fisheries diagnostic of Chiton articulatus (Mollusca: Polyplacophora) at Acapulco, Mexico

Chitons are marine mollusks morphologically composed of a large muscular foot which allows them to conform to irregular surfaces. Few species as Chiton articulatus are used for human consumption. During April, July and December of 2009, 2010 and 2011, an evaluation was conducted on C. articulatus at Acapulco, Mexico. Number, size and weight of individuals caught in fishing were recorded. Simultaneously, during October and December 2009, February and April 2010, field work was carried at 4 locations to record the amount, size and weight of individuals caught for biometric analysis of the total length versus foot length and foot weight. Two models were obtained to estimate the total length. There were 4,007 C. articulatus feet acquired; the linear model estimated lengths from 39.75 to 48.27 mm; and the potential model calculated lengths from 43.09 to 54.97 mm. On a time scale, both estimates showed a trend of decreasing the annual arithmetic mean captured. The caught of C. articulatus in Acapulco can be considered as coastal artisanal fisheries. Furthermore, the variations in amount and sizes of the specimens were related to capture and weather season. Unregulated fishing effort may impact the population dynamics affecting the community structure and dynamics on the rocky shore.