Space use and inferred spawning activity of three exploited gamefish species on a large artificial reef

Intense fishing pressure has led to changes in species composition, demography and the over‐exploitation of many coastal fishes. To restore populations, artificial reefs (ARs) are used with the assumption that new habitat will increase fish productivity. Kelp bass ( Paralabrax clathratus ), barred sand bass ( P. nebulifer ) and California sheephead ( Semicossyphus pulcher ) are three important recreational gamefish species in southern...