Results for the Spanish Survey in the NAFO Regulatory Area of Division 3L for the period 2003-2014

Abstract

Since 2003, a stratified random summer bottom trawl survey was conducted by Spain in the NAFO Regulatory Area of Division 3L (Flemish Pass). The surveys were carried out by the R/V “Vizconde de Eza” using bottom trawl net type Campelen. Entire series of mean catches, biomass and length distribution for Greenland halibut, American plaice and witch flounder are presented for the period 2003-2014. Greenland halibut biomass and abundance estimates show an increasing trend since 2011, reaching the maximum values in the series in 2008 and 2014. In last years it can be seen a presence of juveniles (around 12-15 cm). American plaice biomass and abundance estimates present an increasing trend since 2010, reaching in 2014 the highest value in the series. Regarding witch flounder, the biomass and abundance decreased in 2014, but there is no a clear trend in the whole period 2003-2014.