The Stock Identification Methods Working Group (SIMWG) reviews and develops methods for defining and investigating stock structure. The group provides guidance to ICES expert groups on how to interpret evidence on population structure.
Accurate identification of stock boundaries is essential for robust stock assessment, modelling, and resource management. While stocks have traditionally been assessed and managed using geographical areas, including ICES divisions and subdivisions, research increasingly shows that biological stock structure is often more dynamic and complex than these boundaries suggest.
SIMWG works to improve approaches for defining stock units and to reduce mismatches between biological stocks and management areas. The group brings together expertise from genetics, ecology, morphometrics, parasitology, statistics, and other relevant fields to support integrated stock identification. Its work helps strengthen the scientific basis for ICES advice and promotes evidence-based fisheries management.
