Preliminary stock assessment of Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) in the vicinity of Crozet islands (part of subarea 58.6)

A preliminary assessment is undertaken to increase the knowledge of the Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) stock in Crozet area. This study is based on a CASAL (C++ Algorithmic Stock Assessment Laboratory) model. Different statistical and biological datasets are used: catches, tag releases/recaptures data, commercial catch-at-length data and Killer whales impact. Preliminary results show different estimates for the initial and current biomass. A range of 55000 to 115000 tons is observed for B0 estimates and SSB never fall below 70% of the initial biomass considering the actual level of catches.