Spatial patterns in marine resource management have historically followed political rather than biological boundaries, leading to mismatches between management units and true population structures. Most marine species are assessed using a "unit-stock" approach that ignores inter-strata dispersal and regional biocomplexity, despite the need for biologically realistic assessments for sustainable management.
While spatially explicit assessments are increasingly common, implementing them requires high-resolution data on population structure and connectivity. This is particularly important as fisheries management frameworks evolve to incorporate ecosystem-based approaches.
This session will explore how management systems can better incorporate spatial dynamics and integrate novel data sources for decision-making. We invite research on:
- Novel stock identification methods to rectify biological, assessment, and management unit mismatches
- High-resolution data collection techniques
- Spatial management approaches that balance practical and ecological needs
- Integrating spatial dynamics into management strategy evaluation
- Implementation of spatial stock assessments.
