A preliminary assessment for mackerel icefish (Champsocephalus gunnari) in Division 58.5.2, based on results from the 2018 random stratified trawl survey

The annual random stratified trawl survey was undertaken in Division 58.5.2 in the vicinity of Heard Island and McDonald Islands during April 2018. This paper provides an updated growth model and a preliminary assessment for mackerel icefish (Champsocephalus gunnari) population structure, abundance and yield in Division 58.5.2 to the west of 79^o 20’ E using standard CCAMLR methods (CMIX and Generalized Yield Model).

The 2018 survey showed a large 2+ cohort in the population. Catches of 443 t in the 2018/19 season and 320 t in the 2019/20 season respectively satisfied the CCAMLR decision rules.