Proportion of fish stocks where the quota limit is consistent with scientific advice
These data provide a measure of the success of Scotland in establishing EU-wide catch limits at levels which ensure the sustainability and profitability of the 13 key Scottish commercial fisheries. The data used is a centred three year moving average and each year the proportion of fish stocks is weighted according to landings value data for that year. The proportion of Scotland's key commercial fish stocks where the quota (total allowable catch (TAC)) set in European negotiations was in line with scientific guidance has risen considerably since 2004. The 2007 figures show a 16 per cent increase from the previous year.
Advice from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) indicates for each fish quota stock a TAC (Total Allowable Catch) limit which, if adhered to, would ensure optimal numbers of fish able to breed and which would allow harvesting at a rate that optimises the economic benefits to the Scottish industry.
Source: Scottish Government Marine Directorate
Note - Landings data for 2008 was estimated using 2007 landings data.
Further Information
Last updated: September 2008