CCAMLR

Stock assessment of the Antarctic toothfish in the Subarea 88.2 H using Peterson method is presented in this paper. Calculated stock value of the Antarctic toothfish in the Subarea 88.2 H is 9307 t with 95% confidence interval ranging from 7502 t to 11967 t. In 2014-2015 values of potential catch with incomplete taking of 3%, 5% and 10% were determined as 280 t, 465 t and 931 t, respectively.  

Closed mostly within the Weddell Sea Subarea 48.5 is one of the closed data-poor CCAMLR subareas, where stock assessment should be carried out. In spite of hard ice conditions at most part of the Weddell Sea during most time of the year, this large water area is very similar with the Ross Sea. This similarity, which could be found in geographical location, bathymetric profile, currents system and follows from results of the fist and the second stage of this program, highlight the Weddell Sea as one of the most promising area for exploratory fishery of Dissostichus sp. However, fishery in Subarea 48.5 is closed on the basis data on stock assessment absence. The main objective of the present program is collecting data for reliable stock assessment and following estimation of precautionary limits in accordance with CCAMLR decision rules. The program contains schedule and research program of the third stage of the Russian Federation multi-year research program in the Weddell Sea that are prospected for 5 years. Detailed plan of fishing operations, collecting and analysis of data will be provided for the Scientific Committee and Commission consideration.

Russian Federation intends to continue research in Subarea 88.2 that began in 2010-2012. The main objectives are studying of toothfish migration from SSRU 88.1 K to Subarea 88.2 A.

Results of longline survey on Antarctic toothfish in the Weddell Sea (Stage II) are presented in the paper. Options I and II of the survey were carried out from February 10 to February 22, 2014. A total of 34 longlines were set: the Option I – 10+20 and the Option II – 4 at the depths ranging from 605 to 2031 m. A total number of hooks – 116 100, area – 13565 km². Catch value of the Antarctic toothfish was 228 t, by-catch – appr. 2 t. CPUE per 1 km main line was 1635 kg at average. As a result of the Research program Stage II the entire measured biomass of the Antarctic toothfish in the Weddell Sea was determined (565 000 t). It was calculated using areal method recommended by CCAMLR (SC-CCAMLR-XXX, 2011; п. 2.40 (ii)). The research Program Stage II in the Weddell Sea accepted by the CCAMLR Commission (CAMLR-XXXII, par. 5.59-6.60) has been successfully completed.