An empirical review of ICES reference points

Bibliographic Details
Title: An empirical review of ICES reference points
Authors: Paula Silvar-Viladomiu, Luke Batts, Cóilín Minto, David Miller, Colm Lordan
Source: ICES Journal of Marine Science. 79:2563-2578
Publisher Information: Oxford University Press (OUP), 2022.
Publication Year: 2022
Subject Terms: 0106 biological sciences, 14. Life underwater, 01 natural sciences
Description: The International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has provided scientific stock advice based on reference points to manage fisheries in the North Atlantic Ocean and adjacent seas for decades. ICES advice integrates the precautionary approach with the objective of achieving maximum sustainable yield. Here, we examine ICES reference point evolution over the last 25 yr and provide a comprehensive empirical review of current ICES reference points for data-rich stocks (Category 1; 79 stocks). The consistency of reference point estimation with the ICES guidelines is evaluated. We demonstrate: (1) how the framework has evolved over time in an intergovernmental setting, (2) that multiple precautionary components and sources of stochasticity are included, (3) that the relationship and historical context of stock size and recruitment are crucial for non-proxy reference points, (4) that reference points are reviewed frequently, taking into account fluctuations and multiple sources of variability, (5) that there are occasional inconsistencies with the guidelines, and (6) that more comprehensive and clearer documentation is needed. Simplifying the stock-recruit typology and developing quantitative criteria would assist with this critically important classification. We recommend a well-documented, transparent, and reproducible framework, and periodic syntheses comparing applications across all stocks.
Document Type: Article
Language: English
ISSN: 1095-9289
1054-3139
DOI: 10.1093/icesjms/fsac194
Rights: OUP Standard Publication Reuse
Accession Number: edsair.doi...........20ade6463dbc95cee6670c9e76e403b4
Database: OpenAIRE
Description
ISSN:10959289
10543139
DOI:10.1093/icesjms/fsac194