Scientists from four countries, sailing on five research vessels, have reported a 42% drop in mackerel biomass, and near halving of mackerel abundance, that could have far-reaching impacts on the TAC advice from ICES that will be published later this year.
The results were reported at a meeting between coastal states last week to discuss management and quota shares of the three main pelagic stocks. Management of all three has been controversial, with the Nordic states issuing themselves increases in their relative shares of the TAC, with the result that the total quota issued is over 140% of the ceiling recommended by ICES.