Red Grouper Catch Year Average Mass (kg) Mature Males Estimated Population (millions)
1990 22.3 17.5
1991 21.6 18.2
1992 21.4 14.4
1993 20.9 13.5
1994 20.2 13.2
1995 20.3 14.2
1996 19.7 10.9
1997 19.8 10.8
1998 18.8 9.5
1999 17.9 9.4

This chart shows the annual catch statistics for the red grouper for the state of North Carolina during the 1990’s. Red grouper begin their lives as females, and the largest fish change sexes to become male during mating season. Only large females mate with these males and lay eggs.

You are a fisheries biologist for the state of North Carolina. You are charged with protecting the fish population, while also keeping professional fishermen from losing their jobs. Based on the chart above, what would you conclude and what would your solution be?

A) There is a serious problem with overfishing of red grouper, so there must be a problem with other fish as well. All fishing for any species should be banned.
B) There is not a very serious problem. The smaller size and population are probably just due to some bad years. Do nothing and monitor the situation.
C) There is a problem with overfishing. Ban fishing for large fish so their size and population can recover, but allow the fishermen to take smaller fish.
D) There is a problem with overfishing of red grouper, but the fishermen need to stay in business. Bring in another species of grouper from Australia, so that there are more fish to catch.