Terms of Reference

Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence Atlantic silverside (Menidia menidia) Stock Review in 2023

Regional Peer Review - Gulf Region

March 26, 2024

Moncton, NB

Chairperson: Delphine Ditlecadet

Context

The Fisheries and Harbour Management sector of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) has requested a stock review for the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence (sGSL) Atlantic silverside (Menidia menidia).

The purpose of this meeting is to review the available information on Atlantic silverside and its fishery. This information will help guide Fisheries Management in developing management measures to ensure a sustainable population.

In 2009, advice was provided for the Atlantic silverside in Nova Scotia (DFO 2010) and in 1997 for the Prince Edward Island fishery (DFO 1997).

Objectives

Science response will provide the following:

• Review data sources and trends
• Status of existing fisheries in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence
• Overview of species biology and ecology
• Identification of knowledge and data gaps

Expected Publications

• Science Response

Expected Participation

• Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) (Science and Fisheries and Harbour Management sectors)

References

• DFO 1997. Prince Edward Island Eels, Gaspereau, Silversides and Smelts. DFO Science Stock Status Report D3-18.
• DFO. 2010. Opportunity for Atlantic silverside and Atlantic saury fisheries in the Nova Scotia portion of the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence. DFO Can. Sci. Advis. Sec. Sci. Advis. Rep. 2009/081.