Proceedings 2009/023
Proceedings of a Workshop on Canadian Science and Management Strategies for Sea Cucumber (Cucumaria frondosa); 17–18 June 2008
Chairperson: Ross Claytor
Editor: Sherrylynn Rowe
Summary
Interest in harvesting sea cucumber (Cucumaria frondosa) in the Maritimes began in 1989, but the fishery was slow to develop mainly due to lack of market potential, as this species is thin-walled relative to other sea cucumber species fished internationally. One experimental fishing licence was issued in 1996, although the small catches of small thin-walled animals were not marketable. In 1999, there was renewed interest in harvesting sea cucumber, and 6 experimental/exploratory licences exist in the Scotia-Fundy area at present. Experimental sea cucumber fishing activities have also been ongoing in the Gulf of Maine since 1988 and off Newfoundland since the 1990s. While the sea cucumber fishery is an emerging fishery in Atlantic Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has recognized that a requirement exists to develop a comprehensive fisheries management plan governing activities of current and future licence holders. Although there is little biological information available from the Maritimes, other regions (e.g., Newfoundland) and countries (e.g., USA) have undertaken scientific studies on this and related species (e.g., Pacific sea cucumber (Parastichopus californicus)). In this regard, there is a need to develop an understanding of the information that exists to assist management, the approaches that could be used for management, and future information needs. These proceedings document discussions held during 17–18 June 2008 on these issues.
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