NOAA splits scamp and yellowmouth grouper into a new fishing quota complex
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Table of Contents
The National Marine Fisheries Service has finalized a rule that changes how two types of grouper are counted and regulated in the South Atlantic. Scamp and yellowmouth grouper, which were previously managed separately or grouped with other species, are now combined into their own specific management unit called the scamp and yellowmouth grouper complex.
Why it matters: This action matters primarily for compliance and quota management. By creating a distinct complex, regulators can apply specific catch limits that target the recovery needs of these particular species without being diluted by other grouper populations. For fishermen, this means new bag limits, trip limits, and accounting rules that they must follow to stay within the law.
Who it affects
- Commercial fishermen operating in the South Atlantic who catch scamp or yellowmouth grouper
This final rule was issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service within the Commerce Department; verify all specific regulatory text against the official Federal Register document before making operational decisions.
Agency: Commerce Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document