Based on the latest scientific assessments, the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) Commission has increased the total allowable catch (TAC) for Patagonian toothfish and reduced slightly the mackerel icefish TAC for the season starting on 1 December.
The TAC for the Heard and McDonald Islands (HIMI) Fishery season for Patagonian toothfish is increased by 120 tonnes to 3525 tonnes, TAC for mackerel icefish reduced by 35 tonnes to 526 tonnes.
‘AFMA’s sustainable approach to fisheries management, backed up by the best available science, has been shown to work effectively,’ said AFMA’s CEO, Dr James Findlay, commenting that Commonwealth fisheries management is considered amongst the best in the world, with Commonwealth fish stocks assessed regularly to ensure catches remain at sustainable levels.
‘This is evident with the latest Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resources Economics and Sciences (ABARES) Fishery status reports 2017 which shows that fish stocks around the Heard and McDonald Islands are in good shape. The increase in the toothfish TAC and decrease in the icefish TAC again demonstrates that adjustments are made to help ensure the fishery continues to be sustainably fished, which in turn can give confidence to seafood consumers worldwide.’
Patagonian toothfish are found at depths of 500-2500 metres in sub-Antarctic waters. The species can grow up to two metres in length and weigh up to 200 kg. Its pectoral fins are large and fan-like, and it has razor sharp teeth on the upper jaw.
