Modelling egg and larval transport of Antarctic Toothfish (Dissostichus mawsoni) in the East Antarctic region: Plan

Antarctic Toothfish (Dissostichus mawsoni) is one of the target species that CCAMLR sets catch limits in the Southern Ocean. Due to their broad distribution relating to their life cycle and difficulties of in situ observations, life cycle with their spatial and temporal distribution is yet to be fully understood. Especially in early life stage, the process of successful egg/larval transport pattern from spawning ground to nursery ground is poorly known in the East Antarctic region. This project investigates the transport pattern of egg/larvae of toothfish using particle tracking scheme uses more than 10 years unique satellite product data and ocean model output data. This work examines not only passive particle drift but also the effects of multiple physical and biological factors (such as eddy, sea ice, egg buoyancy and swimming activity of larvae) on their distributions. Using this sensitivity analysis, we explore possible transport process of egg/larvae in the East Antarctic region and it will contribute to developing CCAMLR’s stable management of Antarctic Toothfish.