VME-indicator analysis from a 2010 Spanish longliner commercial cruise in the SEAFO area (Division D)

Abstract

A Spanish longline commercial cruise was conducted within Division D of SEAFO in the first half of 2010. Using scientific observer records an analysis of benthic organisms as potentially VME-indicator has been made. An estimation of the area covered for the activities in the area in 2010 and since 2002 up today, incidental catches of benthic organisms by taxa, depth distribution and total impact on benthos by set have been analyzed. The Order Gorgonacea and Phylum Porifera were the two predominant taxa represent 83% of total benthos incidental catch. In spite of these incidental catches, these did not meet the level of “encounter” according to CCAMLR criteria, also whether it is considered the whole sets instead the segments of longline.