Introduction
In this unit, you will learn how to measure the abundance and biomass of fish populations to inform sustainable fisheries management. The unit will cover the theory of marine population dynamics and critically discuss the assumptions underpinning a diverse range of fishery assessment approaches applied today - from simple ecological indicators to sophisticated models. During weekly computer labs, you will develop quantitative skills to calculate metrics of population status and fishery performance. You will have the opportunity to collect field data and use it in class to conduct your own population assessment. On completion of this unit, you will have an understanding of (1) classic and contemporary fishery assessment methods, (2) their strengths and limitations in relation to data availability, (3) the value of quantitative information on population status for sustainable fisheries management, and (4) the need for precautionary management decisions in the face of assessment uncertainty. This knowledge will be a critical foundation for various careers focused on wild capture fisheries.
Summary
| Unit name | Fisheries Assessment |
| Unit code | KSM608 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering Institute for Marine & Antarctic Studies |
| Discipline | Fisheries and Aquaculture |
| Coordinator | Doctor Nils Krueck |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Postgraduate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Learning Outcomes
- Develop a conceptual understanding of techniques used in fisheries assessments with an awareness of their data requirements, limitations and assumptions.
- Apply quantitative methods to assess the status of fished populations and fisheries.
- Evaluate fisheries assessment outcomes and recommend management strategies that enable the sustainable harvest of fished populations.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Weekly 2 hours of attending/recorded lectures and weekly 3 hr computer tutorials, one attending field trip / Virtual field trip. |
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| Assessment | Computer exercises (20%)|Length-based assessment analysis (20%)|Presentation of fishery assessment (25%)|Fishery assessment report (35%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.