Stock Discrimination in Marine Fishes

Abstract

Various methods of .stock discrimination in marine fishes are reviewed, especially tagging and migration studies, meristics, parasites, serology, and biochemical-genetic differences from electrophoresis, with particular attention to Atlantic cod, Gadus morhua, of the Northwest Atlantic. The advantages and disadvantages of these methods for stock discrimination are noted, together with principles regarding the use of these and other methods for delineating natural fish populations. The conditions leading to stock formation, especially of large stocks, are discussed and an illustration given of the uses of stock concepts for management and their inherent dangers.