Identification study of Factors affecting the Reduction of Sturgeon Stocks in the southern Caspian Sea Based on Fishermen's Viewpoints Using Smart Pls Structural Equation

Caspian sturgeon is one of the most important and economically valuable fish that unfortunately have witnessed a sharp decline in their natural stocks in recent decades, as they are on the endangered species list. Therefore, given the importance of sturgeon, identifying the factors that reduce their stockpiling is essential. The present study was applied in terms of purpose type and descriptive-analytical and survey method. The sample size was estimated based on Cochran formula of 270 fishermen by available and voluntary sampling method and the required information was collected by distributing questionnaires based on Likert spectrum and in-person interviews among fishermen in Golestan, Mazandaran and Guilan provinces. Questionnaire data analysis was performed using structural equations and PLS software and the findings indicated that factors such as overfishing, low release rate, illegal fishing, ؛ Inadequate fishing management ؛ Non-standard fishing gears and equipment had a significant and positive impact on the Reduction of sturgeon stocks , with the largest impact being illegal fishing. However, the effect of contaminant inflow and water pollution had a positive effect on the downward trend of sturgeon stocks, but was not significant. The findings of the present study can be of great help to fisheries decision makers in planning and Their implementing measures to restore sturgeon stocks their reserves and prevent their rapid decline and lead to improved sturgeon restoration efforts.