Science Advisory Report 2014/045
Stock Assessment of NAFO Subdivision 3Ps American Plaice (Hippoglossoides platessoides)
Summary
- Biomass in 2013 is estimated to be 60 % below Blim (40 % BMSY) and therefore the stock is in the Critical Zone. The probability of being below Blim is high (0.97). Current median fishing mortality is estimated to be 20 % of Flim and the probability of being above Flim(FMSY) is low (0.05).
- Although fishing mortality is low, the stock has declined since 2010.
- Projections of stock size were conducted under current productivity conditions at various catch levels from 2014 to 2016. Five scenarios were considered (zero catch, current catch, current catch + 15 % and current F). Although there was growth under all scenarios, the stock remained well below Blim in all cases. Additional projections determined that annual catches of 1000 t or more will result in stock decline.
- To increase the probability of stock recovery, there should be no directed fishing and bycatch should be kept to the lowest possible level.
This Science Advisory Report is from the St. John’s NL, January 29-30, 2014 Regional Peer Review; 3Ps and 3LNO Haddock, 3Ps Pollock, and 3Ps American Plaice Stock Assessment. Additional publications from this meeting will be posted on the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Science Advisory Schedule as they become available.
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