CCAMLR

Length frequency distributions (LFD) of catch collected as a random sub-sample from hauls are an important input to integrated fish stock assessments. Statistical tests for variables that significantly influence the LFD helps in evaluating how to account for important differences in availability and/or gear specific selectivity. A distribution-free model of LFD is described which is fitted to the set of length quantiles L for a predetermined set of corresponding probabilities P (in this instance 0.05, 0.1 to 0.9 in 0.1 increments, and 0.95), constructed from individual length measurements of individual hauls as sampling units or after pooling hauls to sampling units defined by combinations of discrete-valued covariates of gear type, spatial block, depth strata, and optionally the sex of sampled fish. The Ls were modelled as a Gaussian response variable using a Generalised Additive Mixed Model (GAMM) with cubic smoothing splines fitted to P for each combination of the covariates (i.e. gear type, depth strata and sex). Within-sampling unit error structure incorporated a statistical weight for sample size and a continuous autoregressive component due to the cumulative nature of the quantiles. Additional error terms included a random spatial block term and interactions of spatial blocks with other covariates. Graphical presentation of fitted splines along with standard error of difference bounds were used to investigate where differences were significant. The model has the advantage of greater generality and sensitivity in detecting differences compared to modelling a single quantile such as the median. In addition, fitting cubic splines allows modelling of standard sigmoidally-shaped cumulative LFDs as well as other more complex shapes, for example, due to multi-modality. The model and model testing using analysis of residuals and random effect estimates are demonstrated using LFD from commercial fishing for Patagonian toothfish at Heard Island (Division 58.5.2). The model supports fitting separate selectivity functions by gear, depth and sex in Division 58.5.2.

The article is concerned with discussion of the Analysis of anomalous CPUE data from data-poor exploratory fisheries (WG-FSA-12/07). Key points of the paper were presented and discussed during the Workshop for the Analysis of the Anomalous High CPUE by Korean Vessels in the CCAMLR Area (2013,April 29th - May 1st, Busan, Korea). This paper attempts to explain possible reasons of anomalous high CPUE for Dissostichus spp. revealed by several vessels in the Subareas 58.4.1, 58.4.2 and 48.6. A number of objective and subjective factors, which can have a principal effect on results of the analysis of anomalous high CPUE, are described. The opinion has stated that a criterion of anomalous CPUE should be specified under condition of CPUE standardization of different types of longlines. There is a conclusion that a discussion on anomalous high CPUE in the specified areas using available data and techniques of their processing is bleak.

Ukraine has submitted a notification for research fishing over three seasons to assess the stock status of Dissostichus spp. in Subarea 48.2, starting in 2013/14. Research fishing will be limited to 80 tonnes of Dissostichus spp. in 2013/14. The notification was submitted on 30 April 2013 and in accordance with Conservation Measure 24-01 (paragraph 3).

Chile has submitted a notification for research fishing in Subareas 48.1 and 48.2 in 2014, 2015 and 2016 in accordance with Conservation Measure 24-01 (paragraph 3). The research will provide information on finfish distribution, abundance and size composition, with the objective of determining the current status of fish stocks in the study area. Research fishing will be limited to 100 tonnes of finfish per season. The notification was submitted on 4 June 2013.
 

Ukraine has notified its intention to participate in the exploratory fisheries for Dissostichus spp. in Subarea 48.6 and Division 58.4.1 in 2013/14. The research plan details the objectives, rationale and activities proposed for research fishing, in accordance with Conservation Measures 21-02 and 24-01.
 

Spain has notified its intention to participate in the exploratory fisheries for Dissostichus spp. in Divisions 58.4.1 and 58.4.2 in 2013/14. The research plan details the objectives, rationale and activities proposed for research fishing, in accordance with Conservation Measures 21-02 and 24-01.
 

South Africa has notified its intention to participate in the exploratory fishery for Dissostichus spp. in Subarea 48.6 in 2013/14. The research plan details the objectives, rationale and activities proposed for research fishing, in accordance with Conservation Measures 21-02 and 24-01.

A progress report on the research fishing in Subarea 48.6 in 2012/13 was submitted jointly by Japan and South Africa (see WG-SAM-13/05).
 

The Republic of Korea has notified its intention to participate in the exploratory fishery for Dissostichus spp. in Division 58.4.1 in 2013/14. The research plan details the objectives, rationale and activities proposed for research fishing, in accordance with Conservation Measures 21-02 and 24-01.