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- Title
Towards a balanced presentation and objective interpretation of acoustic and trawl survey data, with specific reference to the eastern Scotian Shelf.
- Authors
Jech, J. Michael; McQuinn, Ian H.
- Abstract
A debate has developed over the ecosystem consequences following the collapse of Atlantic cod throughout the coastal waters of eastern Canada. The explosive increase in pelagic fish abundance in scientific bottom-trawl catches on the eastern Scotian Shelf has been interpreted as being due to either ( i) a 'pelagic outburst' of forage fish abundance resulting from predator release or conversely ( ii) a change in pelagic fish vertical distribution leading to a 'suprabenthic habitat occupation' thereby increasing their availability to bottom trawls. These two interpretations have diametrically opposing ecological consequences and suggest different management strategies for these important forage fish species. We argue that an objective evaluation of the available evidence supports the hypothesis that the abundance of forage fish has not increased in response to the demise of cod and other top predators, and the reliance on a single sampling gear with low catchability has biased and will continue to bias the interpretation of demographic trends of pelagic fish populations. We advocate that multiple sampling technologies providing alternative perspectives are needed for the monitoring and management of the various trophic levels if we are to achieve a balanced and objective understanding of marine ecosystems.
- Subjects
TRAWLING; ATLANTIC cod; ATLANTIC cod fisheries; FORAGE fishes; PREDATION; SCOTIAN Shelf
- Publication
Canadian Journal of Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences, 2016, Vol 73, Issue 12, p1914
- ISSN
0706-652X
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1139/cjfas-2016-0113