Public Summary — Computer Modelling of Marine Ecosystems: Applications to Pacific Salmon Management and Research

Abstract

This paper discusses how ecosystem modelling could be a valuable tool in the management and conservation of Canada’s west coast fisheries and salmon stocks. In this study ecosystem modelling refers to a computer application that examines aquatic ecosystems, and species therein, with the ability to simulate biological changes, such as biomass, mortality, catch, feeding and competition, as influenced by factors like environment, predation, competition or fisheries. By emulating both ecosystem and species changes over time, such models can help guide pro-active responses to potential future changes.

This study shows that ecosystem modelling has progressed to a level of sophistication which justifies its use in the management and conservation of Canada’s west coast fisheries and salmon stocks. The full report titled “Computer Modelling of Marine Ecosystems: Applications to Pacific Salmon Management and Research” by Dave B. Preikshot Ph.D., is available at www.fish.bc.ca.