Snapper Science Program: Theme 2 - Estimates of Biomass

The "Snapper Science Program: Theme 2 - Estimates of Biomass" focuses on developing fishery-independent methods to monitor Snapper population trends amidst regulatory changes affecting catch data reliability. Key methods like the Daily Egg Production Method (DEPM), hydroacoustics, and close-kin mark-recapture (CKMR) are being investigated. The DEPM is being refined to improve accuracy in estimating egg production, using field experiments to optimize plankton survey designs and refine reproductive parameter estimates. Hydroacoustic techniques are being applied in South Australia to quantify Snapper biomass during spawning aggregations, enhancing previous methods with underwater video for species identification and size estimation. CKMR offers potential for precise population estimates based on genetic relationships, enhancing assessment accuracy independent of fishing activities. These efforts aim to integrate improved biomass estimates into the 'SnapEst' stock assessment model, enhancing its ability to forecast Snapper population dynamics and support sustainable management strategies.