Fishery closed to save anchovy
Scientific advice on anchovy stocks in the Bay of Biscay in the Basque region of northern Spain has persuaded the European Commission to close the local fishery until the end of 2006. The information, from the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee on Fisheries (STECF), persuaded the Commission that should the quantity of spawning fish drop below 28,000 tonnes, then fishing should stop. The stock is estimated to be 18,640 tonnes - far below sustainable levels. 'With the current stock situation, maximum protection of the remaining spawning population is required,' reads the STEDF opinion, published in September 2005. The anchovy is a small fish, with a maximum length of 22 cm, although most catches are far smaller than this. Its strong flavour has made the fish a favourite ingredient in sauces and marinades since Roman times. However, sustained over-fishing in the Bay of Biscay has put the future of the fish in jeopardy. A Commission statement explains that: 'the decision to close the fishery reflects the recognition by Member States of the severe risk of collapse which the anchovy stock in the Bay of Biscay is now facing.' This is the second consecutive year that the area has suffered low anchovy stocks. In 2005 anchovy fishing was also suspended in an attempt to preserve the stocks. The 2006 quota, set in 2005, set a total allowable catch of 5,000 tonnes, which could be increased should stocks recover. The stocks have so far failed to recover. Closure of the anchovy fishery will have a significant impact on the area. The Fisheries Fund (Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance, FIFG) provides financial aid for areas affected in this way. FIFG rules allow aid for a total period of six months over the 2000-2006 period. As assistance has already been given to the area, financial aid will be limited.
Countries
Spain