Determination of management units for grey mackerel fisheries in Queensland and the Northern Territory

Task leader: Dr Gavin Begg, CRC Reef, James Cook University

Task associate: 3rd Party Contract

About 800 tonnes of grey mackerel, Scomberomorus semifasciatus, are harvested each year worth about $6 million. However, despite its importance, surprisingly little is known about the stock structure of grey mackerel in northern Australian waters which is critical to effectively manage this valuable natural resource.

While there is some evidence for large scale stock differences and movement across Queensland and Northern Territory waters, the extent of grey mackerel migrations in northern Australian waters is unknown. The relationships among grey mackerel populations in Queensland Gulf and Northern Territory waters are also unknown.

This task will use a suite of complementary techniques including mtDNA genetic analyses, otolith microchemistry and parasite incidence to provide vital information about the spatial structure and effective management units of northern Australian grey mackerel populations.

This is a collaborative project led by CRC Reef and involving DPI&F, NT Department of primary Industry, Fisheries and Mines, WA Fisheries and The University of Queensland. It is funded by FRDC.