Evaluation of Ecological Effects of the North Sea Industrial Fishing Industry on the Availability of Human Consumption Species Using Geographical Distribution Resource Data

This report presents an analysis of the ecological impacts of the industrial fisheries in the North Sea. The geographical distribution of fish stocks was used to demonstrate overlap areas where feeding strategies occur. Potential consumption levels are calculated using specific diet requirements of human consumption stocks based on consumption rates and trophic efficiencies. Impacts on human consumption stock sizes indicate a transfer efficiency problem related to food deficiencies caused by the industrial fishery. The effects of geographical scaling procedures on the projected consumption levels with different future stock sizes are investigated to establish management procedures. Recommendations are made for the development of GIS systems more appropriate for the handling of fisheries data.