Evaluación de merluza (Merluccius hubbsi) en la plataforma Argentina, entre 34°S y 48°S, en agosto y setiembre de 1993.

Abstract

This report countains the results of a hake assessment survey carried out by the R/Vs "Dr. E.L.Holmberg" and "Cap. Oca Balda" in the Argentine Sea between 34°S and 48°S, from August 27 to September 30, 1993. The objectives of this survey were: 1) to estimate the total biomass, total and age abundance; 2) to define the size and age composition; and 3) to define the size composition of the by-catch. Hake biomass was estimated in 1,989,000 Tonnes, with a confidence interval of ±18 o/o and a confidence coefficient of 95 o/o. Most of the biomass corresponded to the area between 41°S and 48°S. It was estimated in 1,836,000 Tonnes and it represented the 92 o/o of total biomass. The biomass of the area between 34°S and 41°S only reached 153.000 Tonnes (8 o/o). Biomass percentage of the "Argentine - Uruguayan Fishing Common Zone" was of 3,5 o/o (71,000 Tonnes). Highest concentrations were found between 41°S and 48°S. The average densities were 2,7 Tonnes/nm² and 18,8 Tonnes/nm² for the 34°S -41°S areas, respectively.