Publication Abstract

Deep-water fisheries of the Northeast Atlantic: Assessment and management approaches.

P.A. Large, C. Hammer, O.A. Bergstad, J.D.M. Gordon, P. Lorance

Most deep-water fish species are long-lived, slow growing and have low reproductive capacity. These stocks are highly vulnerable to exploitation and can be rapidly depleted with recovery being very slow, often taking decades. In the Northeast Atlantic, a diversity of deep-water fisheries exists for a variety of finfish and shellfish species. The major characteristics of these fisheries are described and the available fisheries, biological and life history data are reviewed. Surplus production and DeLury models are the principal methods currently used in assessing the stocks, although age-based methods, stock reduction models and life history models are likely to be used once sufficient biological data become available. Most of the deep-water fisheries in the Northeast Atlantic have been completely unregulated; the latest stock assessments indicate that nearly all exploited deepwater species are being harvested "outside safe biological limits" and that immediate reductions in catches are needed to avoid stock depletion. Various approaches for managing deep-water fisheries resources are discussed, including the need to harmonize conservation and enforcement measures across management jurisdictions for straddling stocks.

Reference:

P.A. Large, C. Hammer, O.A. Bergstad, J.D.M. Gordon, P. Lorance. 2003. Deep-water fisheries of the Northeast Atlantic: Assessment and management approaches. Journal of Northwest Atlantic Fishery Science; (31) 151-163