Identifying Métiers Using Landings Profiles: An Octopus-Driven Multi-Gear Coastal Fleet

The multi-gear coastal vessels in the Algarve (South Portugal) own licenses for various fishing gears. However, it is generally uncertain what gears they use, which problematic as each individual gear responsible unique impacts on resources and environment. In this study, landing profiles identified fleet (2012–2016) were used support defining potential métiers using k-mean clustering analysis (CLARA) along with information from past studies métiers. results showed that more than 50% of engaged octopus fishery year-round, traps, while a small percentage (~13%) entirely dedicated to clam dredging. general, gillnets (21%) target monkfish, hake bastard soles, trammel nets (6%) cuttlefish, some alternating (either seasonally or annually) according species. method initial characterization fleet’s its efficiency limited data discussed, well utility segmentation management advice.