Impact of Overfishing on the Temporal Dynamics and Resilience of the Coptodon guineensis (Günther, 1862) Population in Lake Toho (Benin, West Africa)

Idossou Ayodédji Clovis Houncheme; Simon Ahouansou Montcho; Sébastien Kpossou; Gilles Bogninou; Hyppolite Agadjihouede; Doru Bănăduc

doi:10.2478/trser-2026-0006

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Impact of Overfishing on the Temporal Dynamics and Resilience of the Coptodon guineensis (Günther, 1862) Population in Lake Toho (Benin, West Africa)

Transylvanian Review of Systematical and Ecological Research

Volume 28 (2026): Issue 1 (April 2026)

By: Idossou Ayodédji Clovis Houncheme , Simon Ahouansou Montcho , Sébastien Kpossou , Gilles Bogninou, Hyppolite Agadjihouede and Doru Bănăduc

Open Access

|May 2026

Abstract

This study analyzes the impact of fishing pressure on the dynamics and resilience of Coptodon guineensis in Lake Toho (southwestern Benin), using size-frequency data (2002-2003 and 2022-2024) processed with FiSAT II. Results show a decline in maximum length and weight (31.3 cm/908 g to 18 cm/119 g), earlier sexual maturity, and a reduction in mature individuals and large breeders. Growth and exploitation parameters indicate reduced longevity, lower yield per recruit, and persistent overexploitation. Overall, the biological and ecological status of the species has deteriorated, undermining its long-term resilience and threatening the food security of local communities dependent on this fishery resource.

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/trser-2026-0006 | Journal eISSN: 2344-3219 | Journal ISSN: 1841-7051

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Language: English

Page range: 107 - 128

Published on: May 15, 2026

Published by: Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu

In partnership with: Paradigm Publishing Services

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© 2026 Idossou Ayodédji Clovis Houncheme, Simon Ahouansou Montcho, Sébastien Kpossou, Gilles Bogninou, Hyppolite Agadjihouede, Doru Bănăduc, published by Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu
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Volume 28 (2026): Issue 1 (April 2026)