Priority research surveys to address uncertainties in the assessment of toothfish in Subareas 88.1 and 88.2

We have identified key uncertainties in the stock assessment of Antarctic toothfish in Subareas 88.1 ad 88.2 which could be addressed using specific research surveys and other dedicated voyages. Given the continued uncertainty arising from the relative paucity of abundance data, age and length composition data and gonad data for toothfish in some geographic areas and seasons, and from lack of sufficient data to understand toothfish movements and stock structure, we believe that research of this kind should be given a high priority by the Scientific Committee. We recommend the Scientific Committee invite members to submit proposals to address these uncertainties, and consider mechanisms by which coordinated research plans involving multiple Members could be generated either by the Scientific Committee or in its working groups.