SI ON NORTH-EAST ATLANTIC SPURDOG

SI on North-east Atlantic spurdog – Statement from Defra Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer.
Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer said:
“After over 5 years of management as a prohibited species, the latest evidence shows Northeast Atlantic Spurdog stock is recovering and can support fishing landings in 2023 and 2024. This week we have therefore taken an important step towards re-opening the UK spurdog fishery.
“This decision follows the latest scientific advice and we will monitor the situation closely, supporting our commitment to establish a sustainable and profitable UK fishing industry. I know that this move will be welcomed by UK fishermen and further details on quota allocation will be set out in due course.”
Removing spurdog from the prohibited list
Following ICES advice that the Northeast Atlantic Spurdog stock is recovering and can support a significant level of landings for 2023 and 2024, the UK, EU agreement allows for a Spurdog fishery to commence in UK and EU waters as soon as reasonably practicable in 2023.
Separate total allowable catches have been agreed for the North Sea (UK share 2,781 tonnes) and Western waters (UK share 4,825 tonnes). Quotas have yet to be allocated.
About spurdog
Also known as the spiny dogfish, the spurdog is a predator that feeds on bony fish, and sometimes even smaller sharks! It is a migratory species that spends the winter months in deep water, and the summer months in warm coastal waters.
They often travel in groups which makes them an easier target for fisheries. It’s difficult for these sharks to recover from overfishing, because they are very slow to reproduce, typically having 1 litter of pups every 2 years.