Revision of the precautionary approach to ensuring the rational use of a living resource (Dissostichus eleginoides) in Subarea 48.3

Fishing for Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) has been carried out around South Georgia continually for more than 40 years, including more than 25 years under CCAMLR management.

This paper reviews the long-term decline in the size structure of Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) observed in longline catches taken in the South Georgia Area (FAO Area 48.3). We note that from the start of the 2000s until now, longline fishing in the South Georgia area has targeted immature fish smaller than 100 cm. The issue of non-rational use of the Patagonian toothfish stock in Subarea 48.3 is examined.