Uni of the Highlands and Islands - FISP Part A Round 2 (360G-cabinetoffice-G2-GA-202209824079-22-23)

The research proposal will focus on firstly using fisher information and evidence to make an initial quantification of the scale to which high ling abundances are a problem within the mixed demersal fishery. Secondly, to identify from existing literature where the knowledge and data gaps are, being data limited, there will be opportunities around life history parameters. Thirdly, the partnership will combine fisher observation and knowledge gap analysis to co-develop a research proposal where research topics and data collection are prioritised to maximise the utility and benefit of what could be achievable within a FISP Part B - Fisheries Data Collection (Lot 1) project. The benefits of co-developing the proposal are that expectations of both the science and industry partners will be managed in terms of what is required of each in terms of input and commitment, and of what could realistically be achieved from project outcomes.Value of undertaking research on this topicThis proposal aligns to the FISP Lot B objectives around addressing data and knowledge gaps, particularly for data-limited stocks and will contribute to the proposed FMP for northern shelf Ling. The proposal supports the following Fisheries Act 2020 objectives: