The Use of Density Analyses to Delineate Sponge Grounds and Other Benthic VMEs from Trawl Survey Data

摘要: The UN General Assembly Resolution 61/105 (UNGA, 2007), and the supporting International Guidelines for Management of Deep-sea Fisheries in High Seas (FAO, 2009), identified cold water corals sponge fields as vulnerable marine ecosystems (VMEs) called upon member states regional fisheries management authorities, such NAFO, to adopt measures their protection from serious adverse impacts fishing operations. Within Working Group on Ecosystem Approach (WGEAFM) was tasked with mapping significant concentrations sponges, while Ad hoc Managers Scientists (WGFMS) has discussed recommendations encounter protocols vessels taking coral and/or bycatch. best available data these applications comes trawl survey data. Commercial is incomplete deemed unreliable at present, situ benthic surveys have been restricted only a few small areas. Trawl broad coverage uses similar sampling tools (trawls) that commercial operating area, which makes results more directly comparable than collected using traditional grabs, sleds, photographic imaging. However, trawls are not good samplers detailed analyses so general approach identify location or following up methods delineate grounds precisely recommended. Both need map develop requires definition what constitutes ground bed.