Research Document - 2016/051
Evaluation of White Hake (Urophycis tenuis) populations in the NL Region in support of a Recovery Potential Assessment
By M.R. Simpson, R.K. Collins, C.M. Miri, and J.A. Bailey
Abstract
In November 2013, the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) designated White Hake (Urophycis tenuis, Mitchill 1815) in the Atlantic and Northern Gulf of St. Lawrence population as threatened. The Atlantic and Northern Gulf of St. Lawrence population includes White Hake in Newfoundland and Labrador waters and, in particular, those in Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) Divisions 3NO and Subdivision 3Ps.
In support of listing recommendations for White Hake by the federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), DFO-Science is conducting a Recovery Potential Assessment (RPA).
This document summarizes current knowledge of the biology, abundance, distribution, and life history of White Hake in Newfoundland and Labrador waters. In addition, habitat and residence requirements have been assessed through analyses of the relationship between research survey catches and water depth/bottom temperature. These analyses support the results of previous studies, which indicate a particularly robust association with warmer waters in excess of 4°C. The document also reviews available information on threats and factors which may limit the survival and recovery of White Hake. Through implementation of a Bayesian Surplus Production Model, potential recovery targets (based on the DFO Precautionary Approach Framework) are proposed. Furthermore, the scope for allowable harm and several scenarios for mitigation of threats and alternatives to anthropogenic activities are considered. There appears to be some scope for human-induced mortality without jeopardizing survival or recovery of this species in this stock area.
Accessibility Notice
This document is available in PDF format. If the document is not accessible to you, please contact the Secretariat to obtain another appropriate format, such as regular print, large print, Braille or audio version.
- Date modified: