EU standing request on catch scenarios for zero‑TAC stocks 2023: cod (Gadus morhua) in divisions 7.e–k (eastern English Channel and southern Celtic Seas). Replacing technical service provided in November 2023
Please note: the present technical service replaces the one released in November 2023.
Cod (Gadus morhua) in divisions 7.e–k is a target species in the EU multiannual management plan (MAP; EU, 2019). The zero-catch advice provided by ICES for this stock is based on precautionary considerations. This technical service provides illustrative catch scenarios consistent with the lower FMSY range for the target stock (haddock) as detailed below.
For cod in divisions 7.e–k:
- 799 tonnes are estimated to be caught when haddock is fished at FMSY; this would result in a cod spawning-stock biomass (SSB) of 1024 tonnes in 2025;
- 571 tonnes are estimated to be caught when haddock is fished at FMSY lower; this would result in a cod SSB of 1361 tonnes in 2025.
The haddock FMSY and haddock FMSY lower scenarios result in an increase in cod SSB relative to 2024 (733 tonnes). Both scenarios result in a cod SSB below Blim (4200 tonnes) in 2025. ICES is unable to estimate the probability of biomass being below Blim at the end of the projection year for this stock.
Since cod are taken as bycatch in mixed fisheries, a specific monitoring TAC would likely not be required for this stock.
History
Published under the auspices of the following ICES Steering Group or Committee
- ACOM