Catch-Based Stock Assessment of Silver Croaker (Pennahia argentata) Based on Different Fishing Indicators in the East China Sea

Data limitations in multispecies fisheries make traditional stock assessments challenging for many developing coastal countries. Despite China’s large marine ecosystems, most fish stocks remain unassessed. This study evaluates the stock status of silver croaker (Pennahia argentata) in the East China Sea (ECS) from 2003 to 2022 using catch-based methods and data from the China Fisheries Statistical Yearbook (CFSY). Three models indicate that the 2022 catch is below the estimated maximum sustainable yield (MSY), suggesting a healthy stock status. The study also tests four catch per unit effort (CPUE) indicators, finding that combining CPUE2 and CPUE4 in the just another Bayesian biomass assessment (JABBA) model yields the best fit. Sensitivity analysis highlights the importance of initial biomass settings in JABBA. Given the limitations of catch-based models like catch-MSY plus plus (CMSY++) and the absence of survey data, a more conservative management approach is recommended. Additionally, the catch-to-trawl vessel horsepower ratio is suggested as a reliable CPUE indicator. These findings support more accurate assessments and sustainable management of silver croaker in the ECS.