Global status of groundfish stocks

We review the status of groundfish stocks using published scientific assessments for 349 individual constituting 90% global catch. Overall, average stock abundance is increasing and currently above level that would produce maximum sustainable yield (MSY). Fishing pressure cod-like fishes (Gadiformes) flatfishes (Pleuronectiformes) was, several decades, on well levels associated with MSY, but now at or below expected to MSY. In contrast, fishing rockfishes (Scorpaeniformes) decreased from near MSY-related in mid-1990s, since mid-2000s has remained only one third levels. Regions most depressed are Northwest Atlantic Pacific coast South America, while Northeast Eastern Central Pacific, Atlantic, Southeast Southwest tend have greatest relative MSY-based reference points. recent year available each stock, catch was 61% Equilibrium curves indicate 76% potential could be achieved current estimates pressure. 15% this lost by excess pressure, 67% results lower than optimal healthy 18% overfished rebuilding. Thus, there modest opportunity increase fisheries reducing overfishing some stocks, more harvest others. However, may other reasons not fully exploit these stocks.