Research Document - 2012/050
Assessment of the Arctic Surfclam (Mactromeris polynyma) stock on Banquereau in 2010
By D, Roddick, J. Brading, L. Carrigan, T. Davignon-Burton, S. Graham, and C. McEwen
Abstract
A 2010 survey of the Banquereau Arctic Surfclam stock provided an estimate of the biomass of 1,150,585 t ± 20,643 of surfclams. This biomass is similar to that of the unadjusted 2004 survey estimate, but differences between the vessels and dredges used for the surveys means the estimates are not comparable. Indications are that the fishery, which started in 1986, has not had a large impact on the stock. Recruitment and growth overfishing are not a problem in this fishery with the present gear selectivity pattern. Size at 50% selectivity is larger than size at maturity and near the size at maximum cohort biomass. Catch per Unit Effort has increased and there are indications of good pre-recruit year classes. The Total Allowable Catch (TAC) could be increased from the present 24,000 t, but caution is advised as TACs and catch rates would be expected to decline as landings increase.
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