A Review of the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus Thynnus) Fishery Between 1995 and 2017
Abstract:
This paper is a review of the capture fishery of the Atlantic bluefin tuna between 1995 and 2017. It considers the exploitation of the fish, catching activity within the fishery over this time period alongside the management efforts to protect stocks. Catch data over the period was analysed and an optimisation model produced to select the most sustainable gear type. Trap and Purse seine methods of catching Atlantic bluefin tuna were selected as the optimal for sustainability. The study also highlighted the higher level of catch not assigned to a specific country or fishing entity within the Mediterranean region, a potential sign of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activity. The Atlantic bluefin tuna is a precious marine resource from which many local industries benefit. The research undertaken suggests that regulators should focus on encouraging Trap and Purse Seine gear types, focus on reducing IUU in the Mediterranean and continue with the current quota system that has sustained yields since 2011 in the Western Atlantic region and grown them in the Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean regions in order to promote sustainable management, protect this species and ensure the economic continuity of this sector.
