Report on a random stratified trawl survey to estimate distribution and abundance of Dissostichus eleginoides and Champsocephalus gunnari conducted in the Heard Island region (Division 58.5.2), May–June 2006

Random stratified trawl surveys (RSTSs) of the distribution and abundance of demersal fish species on the Heard Island plateau have been conducted annually since 1997. The survey conducted in May-June 2006 had two main aims:
• to assess the abundance and size structure of juvenile and adult Dissostichus eleginoides on the shallow and deep parts of the Heard Island Plateau. ]
• to assess the abundance and size structure of Champsocephalus gunnari on the Heard Island Plateau
This paper describes the survey design and gear configuration used during the 2006 RSTS, conducted from aboard the FV Southern Champion. It also describes the results of the survey, detailing the breakdown of catches overall and by stratum.
Patagonian toothfish Dissostichus eleginoides were the most abundant fish species overall, with Channichthys rhinoceratus, Champsocephalus gunnari and Macruronus whitsoni also locally abundant. Common bycatch included rocks, sponges, echinoderms, jellyfish and anemones.