Essential Data Collection of Life History Samples Using on-Board Observers for Age-Based Estimates of Mortality and Reproductive Potential

There is a concern over the lack of knowledge of the biology of many exploited species because it is difficult to obtain representative biological samples.  This can inhibit formal stock assessments while the sustainable management of some fisheries is being questioned.   For many species, biological samples are collected through the interception of commercial catches at fish houses and dockside; however, many species are typically processed at sea limiting the retrieval of samples dockside.  Scientific observer programs are recognized as having the greatest potential for obtaining robust samples.  However, procedures for obtaining samples rapidly and efficiently are needed that also do not interfere with normal fishing practices.  Current methods for obtaining samples will be presented and their ultimate application to stock assessments.