Network analysis of the endemic spotted gully shark Triakis megalopterus reveals spatial vulnerability to exploitation in the Western Cape, South Africa

Abstract

The spotted gully shark Triakis megalopterus (Triakidae) is a mesopredatory species endemic to southern Africa. It is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List in accordance with an estimated increase in population size, general release by recreational linefishers and incidental catches in the commercial linefisheries. Previous research suggests this species to be resident, and as such it is likely to receive protection in coastal marine protected areas (MPAs). However, its ecology and movement behaviour remain poorly studied. This study employed acoustic telemetry to provide information on the species’ movements along the coast of the Western Cape Province, South Africa. We used network analyses to investigate movement randomness, associations between individuals, sexual segregation, and the effectiveness of MPAs. Our findings reveal non-random movements as well as patterns of co-occurrence between individuals. Spatial network analysis suggested sexual segregation, because areas of high use (Walker Bay and De Hoop) differed between males and females. Co-occurrences were observed exclusively in Walker Bay, chiefly between males, with no co-occurrence found between females. The tagged spotted gully sharks were not detected extensively within existing MPA boundaries, though there was no significant difference between their movements inside and outside protected areas for both sexes.