CMSY++ Assessment Model
The CMSY++ Assessment Model is a vital tool used in SURIMI to evaluate the health of fish stocks and predict their future status, especially in situations where fisheries data are limited. Building on the concept of Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY), which identifies the maximum amount of fish that can be caught without harming the stock’s ability to reproduce, CMSY++ provides a practical solution for assessing stock health with minimal data. It uses information like official catch or landing data and catch per unit effort (CPUE) from surveys to estimate stock status.
Real World Applications of CMSY++ Models
CMSY++ is a valuable tool for managing sustainable fisheries, especially in data-limited regions. Based on the Schaefer surplus production model, it uses species’ growth rates and stock depletion data to estimate key reference points like the fishing mortality rate (FMSY) and biomass at MSY (BMSY). These outputs guide effective fisheries management.
A notable strength of CMSY++ is its ability to assess multiple stocks or species groups within a specific area, offering a comprehensive view of fisheries health. Its user-friendly R Shiny App interface – a web-based tool that simplifies running models and visualising data – makes it accessible for users without advanced programming expertise, enabling easy replication and use. Additionally, CMSY++ can provide short-term forecasts, predicting how fish stocks might respond to future changes in fishing pressures—an essential feature for informed decision-making.
CMSY++ within SURIMI
In the context of SURIMI, CMSY++ plays an important role by providing accessible and reliable stock assessments that guide sustainable fisheries management. Its ability to work in data-limited environments ensures that even in challenging situations, the model can offer valuable insights into stock health and trends. This helps stakeholders—like policymakers, fishers, and conservationists—make more informed decisions, balancing ecological sustainability with economic needs. Ultimately, CMSY++ empowers the development of strategies for sustainable fisheries, even when data is scarce, supporting better management practices across different regions.
The SURIMI Toolbox
All SURIMI models, such as the CMSY++ Assessment Model, will seamlessly integrate into the EU DTO, forming a comprehensive framework that combines social, ecological, and economic perspectives. These models will support data-driven decision-making for sustainable ocean management and resilient marine communities. While aligned with the EU DTO, they can also operate independently, extending their benefits beyond the framework.
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