REPORT OF THE 2022 EASTERN ATLANTIC AND MEDITERRANEAN BLUEFIN TUNA DATA PREPARATORY MEETING (INCLUDING BFT MSE)

The 2022 Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean Bluefin Tuna Data Preparatory Meeting including MSE was held online from 18 to 26 April 2022. The bluefin tuna Species Group reviewed the development of the current CMPs and recommended a Blim of 40% of dynamic SSBMSY and an overfishing metric. It was suggested to use two quilt plots with main and secondary performance metrics and "worm plots" on biomass and catches for narrowing down the list of CMPs. A Path forward was defined for the BFT MSE process and for continuing with the ambassador’s programme. The draft Terms of Reference for the E-BFT assessment were reviewed. Initial model setup for the three platforms to be used, Virtual Population Analysis, Age Structured Assessment Program and Stock Synthesis were presented. Initial data inputs and indices of abundance were reviewed by trying to harmonize the input data for this stock assessment and the current BFT MSE. Following the presentations of initial data and preliminary results for three modeling platforms a working plan was defined. GBYP matters and BFT growth in farms were addressed.