Gadus morhua abundance and growth

What is it about?

Atlantic cod has been subject to heavy fishing pressure for over a century, stocks in Western Scotland have declined with no signs of recovery. The distribution, abundance and growth of Atlantic cod using stereo-video imagery SCUBA transects was investigated within the Firth of Clyde south-west coast of Scotland. Such methods have not previously been trialled in northern temperate waters. Cod were seen in higher abundance in maerl seabed types and a decline in abundance was observed over the course of data collection. Insufficient good quality habitat may be inhibiting their survival.

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Why is it important?

Atlantic cod is of high commercial value and their populations are not recovering. A new method to investigate Atlantic cod nursery areas was trialled with important conservation and management results demonstrated