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Atlantic Blue Shark MSE

(Prionace glauca)

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Overview

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While a formal MSE process has not yet been launched for Blue Shark, several ICCAT recommendations call for the evaluation of feasibility:

Rec. 21-09: Requests the SCRS to explore the feasibility of developing an MSE for Blue Shark.
Rec. 22-08: Reiterates this request and establishes the basis for analytical development.

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Summary

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The SCRS has advanced the outlook for Blue Shark MSE through two key documents prepared in 2024. These focus on developing code architecture, conducting preliminary closed-loop simulations for the northern stock, and assessing technical feasibility.

Taylor (2024) presents a compact closed-loop simulation framework for Blue Shark MSE that uses multivariate Bayesian priors for life-history parameters and tests ICCAT-relevant management procedures against minimum performance standards. Example simulations show that several MPs—both index- and model-based—achieve high probabilities (>90%) of remaining above 40% BMSY, with green quadrant probabilities ranging from 60% to 90%, and greater catch variability observed in model-based MPs.

Carruthers (2024) introduces a streamlined simulation platform for Atlantic Blue Shark MSE, using operating models that incorporate uncertainty in life-history and productivity parameters. It evaluates both index- and model-based MPs, demonstrating that many exceed performance benchmarks such as maintaining biomass above 40% BMSY and achieving 60–90% probability of being in the Kobe green quadrant. The platform also explores algorithms to automatically tune MPs to minimum performance standards. The full source code is available at github.com/Blue-Matter/Blue_Shark_MSE.

The SCRS aims to submit a feasibility analysis for northern and southern Blue Shark MSE to the Commission by 2025.

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References

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Materials

Rec/Res

Meetings

SCRS Docs

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Updated: July 7, 2025

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