PelAC has called on the EU Commission for an updated management strategy plan for Southern Horse Mackerel
The Pelagic Advisory Council (PelAC) has urged the European Commission to prioritise the development of an updated Long-Term Management Plan (LTMP) for the southern horse mackerel (SHOM) stock, following significant changes in biological reference points and modelling methods.
The call comes in light of the findings from the 2024 Working Group on Southern Horse Mackerel, Anchovy, and Sardine (WGHANSA) benchmark report, published on 21 June 2024.
Updated Scientific Benchmarks
The benchmark, conducted by ICES, introduced a new model incorporating revised biological data such as maturity, natural mortality rates, and additional indices, alongside the capacity to accommodate changes in fisheries selectivity. According to PelAC, the updated model provides more realistic and accurate estimates of spawning stock biomass (SSB), fishing mortality, and recruitment than its predecessor.
Key changes to the reference points include:
- MSY Btrigger: Increased from 181,000 tonnes to 279,000 tonnes.
- Blim: Raised from 103,000 tonnes to 201,000 tonnes.
- FMSY: Reduced from 0.15 to 0.115.
These adjustments render the existing LTMP for SHOM outdated, prompting the need for a comprehensive review and update.
Request for Management Strategy Evaluation
PelAC is calling on the European Commission to request ICES to subject the updated LTMP to a Management Strategy Evaluation (MSE). The council emphasised the importance of incorporating climate change effects and the SHOM’s role in the ecosystem and food chain into the MSE.
Additionally, PelAC highlighted concerns raised by ICES about the combined Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for southern horse mackerel, blue jack mackerel, and Mediterranean horse mackerel. According to ICES, such a combined TAC could obscure species-specific exploitation rates and risk overexploitation.
PelAC’s Vision for SHOM Sustainability
Chair of the Pelagic Advisory Council, Esben Sverdrup-Jensen, stressed the urgency of addressing these issues in the updated LTMP. “Effective and sustainable management of SHOM is critical not only for the species but also for maintaining ecosystem balance. Incorporating modern scientific insights into a robust MSE is essential to prevent overexploitation and enhance biodiversity,” he stated.
Next Steps
PelAC has proposed that the revised LTMP should serve as a framework to refine the management of SHOM stocks. The council hopes the Commission will move swiftly to initiate the required updates and evaluations, ensuring the sustainability of this vital pelagic resource.
Background
Southern horse mackerel plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems and serves as a key species in pelagic fisheries. The Pelagic Advisory Council is dedicated to ensuring sustainable management practices for pelagic stocks within European waters and collaborates closely with stakeholders and scientific bodies to achieve this goal.