Working Group on Biological Sampling Optimization (WGBIOPTIM)

<p dir="ltr">The Working Group on Optimization of Biological Sampling (WGBIOPTIM) aims to develop and provide guidance on R-tools applications for evaluating strategies to optimize biological sampling programs under data collection national programs. The primary purpose of sampling optimization is to ensure that time and costs invested in sampling are effectively justified in terms of the quality of information ultimately provided to stock assessment end-users. During the 2023 and 2024 working group meetings, developers presented descriptions of the R-tools optimization methodologies and conducted specific hands-on sessions. These R-tools were made available on the WGBIOPTIM GitHub repository for exploration and testing during and after the meetings (Term of Reference (ToR) a, ToR b and ToR f). Participants conducted several case studies to test the different R-tools (ADV, SDTool, BioSim and SampleOptim). Additionally, the group initiated discussions on survey data to identify current needs for sampling optimization. Two case studies were identified by the participants for applying the available tools, specifically focusing on SampleOptim and ADV for age data optimization and number of length measurements. The group reviewed existing open-access simulation tools specifically designed for survey data. Furthermore, work began on R-code conversion functions from the RDBES format to the RDB from different hierarchies (ToR e). These conversion functions will be included in the BIOPTIMcore R-package, along with the indicators functions from the various optimization R-tools (ToR c). The WGBIOPTIM GitHub project webpage was updated to outline the next steps for each subgroup and their associated ToR, with a defined time schedule (ToR f). To see the full WGBIOPTIM Resolution and all the ToR defined, see Annex 2.</p>