Albacore Tuna, North Atlantic, Mid-Water Pelagic Trawl

Albacore in the North Atlantic has been scored a low risk. The spawning stock biomass (SSB) has recovered to levels above the level associated with maximum sustainable yield B_MSY. Current fishing mortality rates (F₂₀₁₄) are 54% of those needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (F_MSY). Therefore the population is not considered overfished and overfishing is not occurring. We have awarded a low risk because the biomass has recovered and fishing mortality rates are sustainable.  

The management of North Atlantic albacore has been scored a low risk. The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tuna (ICCAT), in charge of management of albacore in the North Atlantic, has adopted a scientifically based total allowable catch. Catches have remained well below the TAC for most years and this has likely aided in the rebuilding of this species. In 2017, ICCAT adopted an interim harvest control rule for albacore in the North Atlantic. 

The bycatch risk for the North Atlantic Ocean albacore trawl fishery has been assessed as a moderate risk. Information on bycatch in this fishery is limited. However, it appears that bycatch of marine mammals and sea turtles is low. We have awarded a moderate concern score to account for the lack of information.

The seabed effects of the fishery are scored a very low risk. Mid-water pelagic trawls do not come in contact with bottom habitat and therefore there is no impact.