A detailed description of the structure and mode of operation of a model for estimating food consumption of seabird predators is provided. This model is a development of earlier ones used in the South Georgia Integrated Study Region and incorporates new features, allowing for seasonal variation in predator weight (and hence energy requirements), diet composition and prey energy content. Specimen outputs are provided, illustrating the changes produced by using these new sub-models. Results of initial sensitivity analyses indicate particular sensitivity to estimation of metabolic energy requirements. The system is directly applicable also to fur seals and could be modified to incorporate phocid seal data, when available. Prey categories are readily modifiable to sub-divide krill into sexes and maturity stages. With existing empirical data on breeding population size, diet, activity-specific energy requirements and foraging ranges, it is possible to make realistic estimates of krill consumption of penguins and fur seals during their breeding seasons within specified areas.
Abstract:
This paper discusses the impact bottom trawling may have on Antarctic benthos. This problem has not been dealt with neither by the Antarctic Treaty System nor by CCAMLR so far.
Abstract:
A method of calculating fishing mortalities which will allow depleted fish stock to recover to levels near those giving greatest net annual increment within two to three decades is illustrated. These fishing mortalities are based on probabilistic descriptions of the future states of a depleted stock, and take into account uncertainty in assessments. Sample calculations show that applying a policy of F0.1 will not always lead to stock recovery in two to three decades, and hence that additional management policies are required for depleted stocks. The implications of these studies for defining the terms ‘depleted’ and ‘target levels for recovery’ are briefly discussed