Resolving the biological stock structure of southern ocean crab fisheries

A good understanding of fish stocks is essential to ensure sustainable harvest and reduce risks of overfishing. This information is lacking for Australian giant crab (P. gigas) and giant spider crab (L. gaimardii) fisheries. This project aims to produce a regional map showing giant crab and giant spider crab biological stock structure and population connectivity (i.e. dispersal pathways); identify key stocks of giant crab and giant spider crab across southern Australia that are major larval sources and well connected, whose careful management can facilitate greater resilience in the fishery; and provide a set of management recommendations based on research findings that will promote more informed and sustainable fisheries.