A hierarchical approach to determining reference points for Pandalid shrimp

Abstract

Reference points for harvesting Pandalid shrimp are categorized into five general approaches: historical proxies, biomass dynamics models, dynamic pool models, stock–recruit models, and demographic production models. Each of these approaches has different data requirements and underlying assumptions. Estimation of biological reference points from these methods can be viewed as a hierarchy, using data-poor proxies in the lowest tier to applying more informative demographic production models in the highest. Based on a review of Pandalid life histories, precautionary-approach reference points, and methodologies for estimating reference points and their applications to Pandalid shrimp stocks, we advocate a progression from proxies to more informative models and the requisite advancement of research programs to develop reliable reference points for Pandalid shrimp stocks.