Stock Assessment : Why?

Abstract

The study on the population dynamics of fisheries resources, which received scant attention in the 1970's when emphasis was placed on development of aquaculture throughout the world, is once more-in the 1980's - being given due attention by coastal states in view of the implications of the International Law of the Sea. In order to assess the potentials of the fisheries resources which now come under the jurisdiction for management and development of the coastal states in their exclusive economic zones, scientists at national levels are obliged to go back to such statistics, data and information as are available and try their best to evaluate the status of the resources exploited by their fishermen. Unfortunately, few are lucky enough to be able to do so, while many have had to call for assistance from both national and regional agencies. In many cases, their appeals have not been heard owing to lack of understanding of the need for studies on fish stock assessment.