What does "catch per unit effort (CPUE)" mean in electrofishing studies?

Catch per unit effort (CPUE) is a vital metric in electrofishing studies that quantifies the number of fish captured relative to the effort expended in capturing them. This concept helps researchers and fishery managers assess the abundance of fish in a specific area, providing insights into population density and overall health of fish communities.

In electrofishing, the "effort" typically refers to either the amount of time spent electrofishing or the area covered during the sampling process. By measuring the catch in relation to this effort, scientists can derive meaningful information about fish populations. A higher CPUE indicates a greater abundance of fish, while a lower CPUE might suggest a population decline or lower density.

Other concepts mentioned, such as fish distribution or health, are relevant but do not directly capture the essence of CPUE, which is specifically focused on fish abundance in relation to the effort made during sampling. This focus on abundance distinguishes it from other metrics that may consider different aspects of fish populations or habitats.