Sustainable management of Kattegat cod; Improved knowledge about stock components and migration (39346)

The Kattegat cod has been categorized as a data limited stock, mainly due to a large unallocated mortality, which may be caused by migration between Kattegat and neighbouring areas. In this project, we aim to improve our understanding of migration patterns and mixing of different stock components within the Kattegat through a novel combination of genetic and micro-chemical signatures for individual fish. Results from the project will feed directly into the ICES advisory process, including a scheduled benchmark meeting in early 2017 where new procedures for stock assessment will be discussed. As cod are also caught as bycatch in other fisheries, a more robust stock assessment for cod will also be important to fisheries for other species under the landing obligation, which is scheduled for implementation in the Kattegat in 2017.

Partners
DTU Aqua, National Institute of Aquatic Resources (coordinator)
Danish Fishermen PO, Denmark

Funding
The project is funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) and the Danish Fisheries Agency.

Research area: Population genetics
Research area: Marine Populations and Ecosystem Dynamics
Research area: Ecosystem based Marine Management
Research area: Marine Living Resources