Highly migratory species and the coordination of fishery policies within certain exclusive economic zones: The South Pacific

Abstract

The paper deals with highly migratory species of fish and the coordination of fishery policies within certain Exclusive Economic Zones of the South Pacific Region. The main biological characteristics of highly migratory fishes present in the Region and particularly in the eastern South Pacific are discussed. Highly migratory species fisheries of Ecuador, Peru, and particularly Chile are discussed. The conflictive aspects of highly migratory species and future management problems are pointed out. The need for fishery policies coordination and interregional links are stressed. It is proposed that the coordination of national jurisdiction policies within the Region, in connection with highly migratory fishes, with the goals of mutual advantage and efficiency, could prove to be the most suitable set-up from the point of view of international relations as well as biological and economic considerations. Coordination within the South Pacific Region (eastern and southwestern portions) could be initiated on the basis of specific studies and exchange of information.