American Plaice

Hippoglossoides platessoides

Source: www.nafo.int/fisheries/frames/fish-pla.html

American plaice is a groundfish species. NAFO manages two stocks in NAFO Divisions 3LNO and 3M, respectively.

American plaice are found in the Northwest Atlantic from Greenland to the Gulf of Maine, usually in the 90 to 250 metre depth range. Also known as plaice or flounder, American Plaice is classified as a flatfish species. It is characterized by a laterally compressed body with both eyes located on one side of its body (usually on the right, or pigmented side).

Historically, American plaice was most abundant on the high seas within three divisions of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) Regulatory Area – 3L, 3N, and 3O. These areas include the Nose and Tail of the Grand Bank. American plaice are also found on the Flemish Cap in NAFO Division 3M, which includes the Flemish Cap.

Stocks of American plaice in 3LNO and 3M  declined significantly during the last two decades, due to overfishing by directed fisheries and as bycatch in fisheries directed at other stocks. As a result of this decline, a moratorium on directed fishing of American plaice in NAFO Divisions 3LNO and 3M has been in place in 3M since 1994, and 3LNO since 1995. There is currently a five per cent limit or 1,250 kg limit (whichever is greater) on bycatch, by other directed fisheries in these divisions.

In June 2007, NAFO’s Scientific Council completed a stock assessment of 3LNO American plaice for 2008-2009. The survey indicated that the stock size has increased slightly from its lowest estimated level in 1994 -1995, however, American plaice stocks remain at very low levels.

Based on this information, the Council recommended that the current moratorium on directed fishing remain in place. It also suggested that NAFO develop a recovery plan for 3LNO American plaice with specific measures to further reduce bycatch levels.

The following information is a stock assessment provided by the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization: www.nafo.ca/fisheries/frames/fishery.html

Fishery Status 2008: Moratorium on 3LNO and 3M stocks (no directed fishery)

Recent Assessment (2007 and 2008): conclude that American plaice in 3M are at very low levels and there is no sign of recovery. Similarly, the 3LNO stock remains low compared to historic levels. Scientific Council recommended that there should be no directed fishing on both American plaice stocks. By-catches of American plaice should be kept to the lowest possible level and restricted to unavoidable by-catch in fisheries directing for other species.

*Information provided by NAFO.