Research Document - 2011/085
Precautionary Approach Limit Reference Points for Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua) in NAFO Divisions 4X5Yb and 5Zjm
By D.S. Clark, K.J. Clark, and I.V. Andrushchenko
Abstract
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Ecosystem and Fisheries Management Branch requested that limit reference points consistent with the Precautionary Approach (PA) be developed for the cod management units in eastern Canada. At a 2010 zonal science advisory process, the methodology for calculating spawning stock biomass limit (Blim) reference points for Atlantic cod in the Gulf and Maritimes Regions was agreed upon and reference points were defined.
Conservation limit reference points (LRPs) were calculated for NAFO Divisions 4X5Yb and 5Zjm cod based on Beverton-Holt stock-recruitment models. The PA reference point, Blim, was calculated as 24,000t for cod in Divisions 4X5Yb and 21,000t for Division 5Zjm. Estimated 4X5Yb spawning stock biomass (SSB) has been below the LRP since 2002 and was estimated to be 10,600t at the beginning of 2009. Estimated 5Zjm cod SSB has been below the LRP since 1994 and is currently estimated to be 9,260t.
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