The effects of v-notching on reproductive potential in American lobsters (Homarus americanus) in Newfoundland

Goetting, Kathryn and Whiffen, Cathy (2011) The effects of v-notching on reproductive potential in American lobsters (Homarus americanus) in Newfoundland. Research Report. Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.

[English] PDF - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial. Download (633kB)

Abstract

For over 100 years, the American lobster (Homarus americanus) fishery has provided a valuable export and significant income for fishers in Atlantic Canada. The fishery has evolved substantially since 1874. Vessels and traps have increased in size over the years and fishers started landing smaller lobsters. These practices have caused an increase in total catch while the lobster stock biomass has decreased. Overfishing of lobster stocks in Atlantic Canada has prompted a variety of conservation measures, including: • Implementation of lobster fishing areas (LFAs) and closed areas • Trap limitations • License limitations • Implementation of fishing seasons • Implementation of a minimum legal size • Implementation of a maximum size limit • Release of berried females • V-notching berried females First suggested in 1899, lobster fishing areas (LFAs) are selected lobster districts in which a unique set of policies apply to address issues specific to that region. For instance, the number of licenses and/or traps may differ from one LFA to another based on the impacts and status of particular lobster stocks. There are currently 15 LFAs (Figure 1) in Newfoundland and Labrador. Some LFAs contain closed fishing areas, which do not allow any type of lobster exploitation, with the exception of scientific research to assess the effectiveness of the closure.

Actions (login required)

View Item