Proposal for a dedicated krill survey for CCAMLR Division 58.4.1 during 2018/19 season by the Japanese survey vessel, Kaiyo-maru

A dedicated krill survey for CCAMLR Division 58.4.1 during 2018/19 season is planned by Japan. No krill biomass has been estimated in the Division since 1996 when Australia carried out BROKE. There are two main objectives of our survey: (1) estimation of krill biomass to update B₀ in the division and (2) oceanographic observations in the area to detect long term changes if any. Japanese research vessel, Kaiyo-maru, will be used in the survey. The krill survey (echosounder and RMT) and subsequent biomass estimation will follow the CCAMLR standard protocol. The survey will be international oriented and participation of foreign scientists is welcome. An earlier version of this proposal was submitted to SG-ASAM-17 and the outcome of the discussion is reflected in this document. This document is presented to WG-EMM-17 with an intention to receive comments from the participants. Every suggestion will be duly examined and incorporated where relevant in the plan and a revised plan, especially related to acoustic survey methods, will be submitted to SG-ASAM-18 for further considerations. The final plan will be submitted to WG-EMM-18.