Implementation of Standardized Methods for Sampling Inland Fishes in Mexico

Standardization of methods and processes for freshwater fish population and community monitoring and assessment can allow for better communication among scientists, for large scale and long-term studies, and for better understanding of multiple factors affecting freshwater fish populations. Standard gears are used in commercial Mexican freshwater lentic fisheries, but are not generally used for monitoring of fish communities in other ecosystems. We examine the potential for the implementation of existing North American standard methods by Mexican freshwater fishery managers and scientists. While several of these methods are in general applicable to Mexican freshwater ecosystems, there could be important obstacles to their widespread utilization. We present the results of an analysis of freshwater fish community monitoring methods used by scientists in Mexico, and explore the potential for standardization. Possibilities exist for implementation of numerous North American standardized methods in Mexico, but others will have to be developed and validated for their use in ecosystems unique Mexico and for species of regional importance. Standard method implementation procedures in Mexico have the potential to lead to their use in other areas of Meso America, where their use is also incipient.