Effects of Density Dependent Population Mechanisms on Assessment Advice for the Northwest Atlantic Mackerel Stock

摘要

The study examines the effect of stock density of the Northwest Atlantic mackeral on growth, sexual maturity, and natural mortality rates. Implications of changes in these factors on catch, stock size, and spawning stock biomass are evaluated using a simulation model. The model was designed so that changes in these compensatory factors as well as the influence of fishing mortality patterns and strategies could be assessed. The model should be useful for providing advice on the status of this important ecological and commercial resource.