Managers and fisheries scientists providing advice have, for many years, discussed and argued definitions of an ecosystem-based approach to marine fisheries. The Reykjavik Conference on Responsible Fisheries in the Marine Ecosystem held in 2001 concluded that there was no reason to wait, since many of the measures that are being implemented under single-species management schemes are in the spirit of ecosystem-based fisheries management. We need simply to do it better. In this chapter, some examplesare given as to how such single-species approach has been exercised in Iceland. While it is important to study and defme scientific criteria to be applied under the scope of an holistic view of the marine ecosystem in its greatest complexity, a more simple approach may provide some steps forward. For scientists involved in single-species assessment of fish stocks, a systematic mapping of various relevant aspects is suggested and discussed. The chapter reports on such pragmatic approaches, involving consideration of assessment methods and the basis for scientific advice. This includes the issue of discards of target and non-target species, the effects of fisheries on the physical environment and certain ecosystem components, multi-species considerationsand the effects of environmental changes on target stocks. Such an approach is meant to help scientists to focus on aspects that are relevant in this context, to help identify gaps and research needs and to draw the attention of all stakeholders to these factors. Later, it may contribute to a more holistic ecosystem approach to the management of the fisheries and other ocean resources.
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