There is no convincing proof for any of the stocks under study that there is a real need for management measures to maintain or increase the level of global production. The mackerel stock is at a relatively low level but no one knows with precision the order of magnitude of the decrease of this stock in comparison with previous levels nor to what extent this drop was caused by intensive fishing or by natural causes, for instance, a fall in recruitment. However, there is no evidence that any of the large pelagic stocks are still under-exploited.
Consequently, there are no biological reasons which warrant recommending special management measures, such as a fishing quota for a given stock. Nonetheless, considering the uncertainty prevailing as to the present state of exploitation of stocks and the possibility that at least some of them (e.g., mackerel) may already be intensively exploited, a prudent attitude seems advisable. The Group also agreed that the coastal countries should take protective measures for the coastal nurseries.
