On 8 January 2013 the International Scientific Committee (ISC) for Tuna and Tuna-like Species in the North Pacific Ocean released an assessment of Pacific Bluefin tuna. As Members of the ISC, NOAA Fisheries SWFSC scientists acted as leaders in generating a timely and a rigorous science-based stock assessment of Pacific bluefin tuna and it is the best available scientific information for judging the status of the Pacific bluefin tuna stock.
ISC conducted a full assessment of the PBF stock in 2012 with data from 1952-2010. The stock assessment report says that based on the reference point ratios, overfishing is occurring and the stock is overfished. Model estimates of 2010 spawning stock biomass (SSB) are at or near their lowest level and SSB has been declining for over a decade; however, there is no evidence of reduced recruitment.
For more information:
Stock Assessment Summary Report
Pacific bluefin tuna webpage
SWFSC scientistis featured in national news:
Live Science, "Pacific Bluefin Tuna in Trouble, Scientists Say"