Research Document - 2000/047
Discussion on an Experimental Approach for Northern Abalone Stock Rebuilding in British Columbia.
By A. Campbell, B. Lucas, and G. Parker.
Abstract
This paper reviews published reports on rebuilding and restocking attempts for abalone stocks. Pilot experiments are proposed that potentially may provide base-line information on large-scale methods to rebuild northern abalone stocks in British Columbia. These include (1) establishing 3 or 4 experimental marine reserves throughout British Columbia to allow experimental manipulation of wild abalone adult densities for increasing abalone recruitment, (2) experimental outplanting of hatchery-reared northern abalone juveniles, on a small scale, to determine optimal size and density for release and probability of success in increasing juvenile and adult abalone densities. An ecosystem approach is recommended in which habitat parameters, algae and invertebrates are monitored. Manipulation of red sea urchins abundance to determine the effects on abalone survival and growth is suggested. Maintaining the northern abalone fishery closure indefinitely and continued large scale index site surveys every 4-5 years to monitor long-term trends in northern abalone populations are also important. Enforcement for the prevention of poaching northern abalone and partnerships between local communities and government agencies will be critical in the success of any rehabilitation attempts and long-term experiments.
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