Report of the Workshop on crustaceans (Aristeus antennatus, Aristaeomorpha foliacea, Parapenaeus longirostris, Nephrops norvegicus) maturity stages (WKMSC)

During the meeting the participants reviewed the already employed and produced new scales of micro- and macroscopic maturity stages for the four crustacean species of main commercial values for the Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean fisheries: (Aristeus antennatus, Aristaeomorpha foliacea, Parapenaeus longirostris, Nephrops norvegicus). These scales were proposed to be adopted by all Institutes which are in-volved in European DCF. A conversion table from both the historical and presently used scales to the new proposed common scales was also provided.

Common problems in both micro- and macroscopic stage assignment were outlined and possible solutions were also provided. Results and comments are added to the present report. A reference image collection was built up thanks to the contribution of all the participants. Histological validations and stage descriptions were also illus-trated and discussed. All participants felt that all the aims of the workshop were at-tained and suggested future activity/meetings in order to improve standardization among scientists who work in this field.