❓ A parliamentary question addresses seasonal fishing restrictions for several fish species, inquiring about spawning periods, research basis, and rationale for discrepancies between restrictions and spawning times. The Minister responds, citing research and practical considerations for recreational fishing effort.
AnsweredQoN 279Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
RECREATIONAL FISHING — SEASONAL RESTRICTIONS
I refer to the seasonal restrictions for five species—dhufish, baldchin groper, pink snapper, breaksea cod and red snapper—announced last Friday. (1) What is the peak spawning period for each species? (2) What research is this information based on? (3) Why do the seasonal restrictions not coincide with the spawning periods if the sustainability of the fishery and protection of these fish stocks is the primary goal? Hon JON FORD
I refer to the seasonal restrictions for five species—dhufish, baldchin groper, pink snapper, breaksea cod and red snapper—announced last Friday. (1) What is the peak spawning period for each species? (2) What research is this information based on? (3) Why do the seasonal restrictions not coincide with the spawning periods if the sustainability of the fishery and protection of these fish stocks is the primary goal? Hon JON FORD
AnswerView source ↗
I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(1) What is the peak spawning period for each species? (2) What research is this information based on? (3) Why do the seasonal restrictions not coincide with the spawning periods if the sustainability of the fishery and protection of these fish stocks is the primary goal? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(2) What research is this information based on? (3) Why do the seasonal restrictions not coincide with the spawning periods if the sustainability of the fishery and protection of these fish stocks is the primary goal? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(3) Why do the seasonal restrictions not coincide with the spawning periods if the sustainability of the fishery and protection of these fish stocks is the primary goal? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
[See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(1) What is the peak spawning period for each species? (2) What research is this information based on? (3) Why do the seasonal restrictions not coincide with the spawning periods if the sustainability of the fishery and protection of these fish stocks is the primary goal? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(2) What research is this information based on? (3) Why do the seasonal restrictions not coincide with the spawning periods if the sustainability of the fishery and protection of these fish stocks is the primary goal? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(3) Why do the seasonal restrictions not coincide with the spawning periods if the sustainability of the fishery and protection of these fish stocks is the primary goal? Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Hon JON FORD replied: I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
I thank Hon Barry House for some notice of the question. (1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(1) Within the west coast bioregion, pink snapper spawn mainly between July and October in the northern zone—approximately Lancelin to Kalbarri—between October and January in Cockburn Sound, and between December and January in the southern zone, which spans from Perth to Augusta. Dhufish spawn from November to March/April, and breaksea cod spawn from November to April on the west coast. The peak spawning of baldchin groper in the Abrolhos Islands is from September to December. There is little information on red snapper on the west coast. (2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(2) Approximately 100 species of demersal scalefish are taken by commercial and recreational fishers in the west coast bioregion. It is not feasible to gather detailed research information across all these species. On this basis, dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper have been selected as key indicator species for monitoring the west coast demersal scalefish fishery. The research information on the biology of these species and stock assessment is detailed in the fisheries research report 163 of 2007 and references therein. There is a list of other key references, which for expediency’s sake, I will table and seek leave to have incorporated into Hansard . Current research shows that the level of fishing mortality for dhufish and pink snapper and for baldchin groper at the Abrolhos Islands is above international benchmark standards, and that a reduction of 50 per cent in fishing mortality is required. (3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
(3) The primary purpose of the seasonal restrictions is to reduce recreational fishing effort. The spring-summer period is a peak time for recreational fishing activity, and consequently recreational catches and effort are highest over these months. Aligning these closures with known spawning times will also provide additional protection to breeding fish. Were the restriction to be put in place over winter, much longer periods would be required to account for the lower levels of recreational effort and catch during these times. Commercial fishing effort will be restricted to a specified number of fishing days to control catches to target catch levels under the new west coast demersal scalefish management plan. As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
As I indicated, I table the key references and seek leave to have them incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Leave granted. [See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
[See paper 3858.] The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
The following material was incorporated — Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Eastman, A. 2001. Age, growth and reproductive biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelides armatus . Honours thesis, Curtin University of Technology, Australia. Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Fairclough, D.V. 2005. The biology of four tuskfish species ( Choerodon : Labridae) in Western Australia. PhD Dissertation, Murdoch University. Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Hesp, S.A., Potter, I.C. and Hall, N.G. 2002. Age and size compositions, growth rates, reproductive biology and habitats of the West Australian dhufish ( Glaucosoma hebraicum ) and their relevance to the management of this species. Fishery Bulletin, U.S. 100: 214-227. Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Moore, S. 2005. The biology of the Breaksea Cod, Epinephelus armatus in coastal marine waters of south-west Australia. Honours Thesis, Murdoch University. Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Nardi, K., Newman, S.J., Moran, M.J. and Jones G.P. 2006. Vital demographic statistics and management of the baldchin groper ( Choerodon Rubescens ) from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands. Marine and Freshwater Research 57: 485-496. Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
Wise B.S., St John J. and Lenanton R.C. 2007. Spatial scales of exploitation among populations of demersal scalefish: implications for management. Part 1: Stock status of the key indicator species for the demersal scalefish fishery in the West Coast Bioregion. Fisheries Research Report 163. 130p.
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