Pacific Ocean Longline

Albacore tuna, Bigeye tuna, Pacific Bluefin tuna, Southern Bluefin tuna, Swordfish, Yellowfin tuna Thunnus alalunga, Thunnus obesus, Thunnus orientalis, Thunnus maccoyii, Xiphias gladius and Thunnus albacares Image Monterey Bay Aquarium Pacific Ocean Longline October 21, 2014 Alexia Morgan, Consulting researcher Disclaimer Seafood Watch strives to have all Seafood Reports reviewed for accuracy and completeness by external scientists with expertise in ecology, fisheries science and aquaculture. Scientific review, however, does not constitute an endorsement of the Seafood Watch program or its recommendations on the part of the reviewing scientists. Seafood Watch is solely responsible for the conclusions reached in this report.

2 About Seafood Watch Monterey Bay Aquarium s Seafood Watch program evaluates the ecological sustainability of wildcaught and farmed seafood commonly found in the United States marketplace. Seafood Watch defines sustainable seafood as originating from sources, whether wild-caught or farmed, which can maintain or increase production in the long-term without jeopardizing the structure or function of affected ecosystems. Seafood Watch makes its science-based recommendations available to the public in the form of regional pocket guides that can be downloaded from www.seafoodwatch.org. The program s goals are to raise awareness of important ocean conservation issues and empower seafood consumers and businesses to make choices for healthy oceans. Each sustainability recommendation on the regional pocket guides is supported by a Seafood Report. Each report synthesizes and analyzes the most current ecological, fisheries and ecosystem science on a species, then evaluates this information against the program s conservation ethic to arrive at a recommendation of Best Choices, Good Alternatives or Avoid. The detailed evaluation methodology is available upon request. In producing the Seafood Reports, Seafood Watch seeks out research published in academic, peer-reviewed journals whenever possible. Other sources of information include government technical publications, fishery management plans and supporting documents, and other scientific reviews of ecological sustainability. Seafood Watch Research Analysts also communicate regularly with ecologists, fisheries and aquaculture scientists, and members of industry and conservation organizations when evaluating fisheries and aquaculture practices. Capture fisheries and aquaculture practices are highly dynamic; as the scientific information on each species changes, Seafood Watch s sustainability recommendations and the underlying Seafood Reports will be updated to reflect these changes. Parties interested in capture fisheries, aquaculture practices and the sustainability of ocean ecosystems are welcome to use Seafood Reports in any way they find useful. For more information about Seafood Watch and Seafood Reports, please contact the Seafood Watch program at Monterey Bay Aquarium by calling 1-877-229-9990.

3 Guiding Principles Seafood Watch defines sustainable seafood as originating from sources, whether fished 1 or farmed, that can maintain or increase production in the long-term without jeopardizing the structure or function of affected ecosystems. Based on this principle, Seafood Watch had developed four sustainability criteria for evaluating wildcatch fisheries for consumers and businesses. These criteria are: How does fishing affect the species under assessment? How does the fishing affect other, target and non-target species? How effective is the fishery s management? How does the fishing affect habitats and the stability of the ecosystem? Each criterion includes: Factors to evaluate and score Guidelines for integrating these factors to produce a numerical score and rating Once a rating has been assigned to each criterion, we develop an overall recommendation. Criteria ratings and the overall recommendation are color-coded to correspond to the categories on the Seafood Watch pocket guide and online guide: Best Choice/Green: Are well managed and caught in ways that cause little harm to habitats or other wildlife. Good Alternative/Yellow: Buy, but be aware there are concerns with how they re caught. Avoid/Red: Take a pass on these for now. These items are overfished or caught in ways that harm other marine life or the environment. 1 Fish is used throughout this document to refer to finfish, shellfish and other invertebrates.

4 Summary Albacore, bigeye, Pacific bluefin, southern bluefin, and yellowfin tuna and swordfish are caught by a variety of gears in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO), including the North and South Pacific regions. This report focuses on the longline fisheries within the WCPO region that target these six species. There are several broadly defined categories of longline fisheries. These include: 1. South Pacific albacore fishery, which is made up of domestic vessels from Pacific Island countries that operate in subtropical waters and target albacore, and distant-water vessels from Chinese Taipei, China, and Vanuatu that fish south of 20 S and supply albacore to canneries. 2. South Pacific distant-water swordfish fishery, which is mostly made up of vessels from Spain. 3. Tropical offshore and distant-water fisheries that target bigeye and yellowfin tuna. The offshore fishery includes vessels from Chinese Taipei and China that are based in the Pacific Island countries; the distant-water fleet is made up of vessels from Japan, Korea, Chinese Taipei, China, and Vanuatu. The offshore fishery supplies tuna to the sashimi market, while the distant-water fishery supplies the frozen sashimi market. 4. North Pacific distantwater albacore and swordfish fisheries, made up of vessels from Japan, Chinese Taipei, and Vanuatu. Pacific bluefin tuna are targeted by Japanese and Chinese Taipei longliners, and southern bluefin tuna are caught in longline fisheries operating in the South Pacific. In addition to these fisheries, there are a number of domestic tuna fisheries operating in the subtropical and temperate areas of the WCPO (SPC 2014). Populations of swordfish, albacore, and yellowfin tuna are healthy, and fishing mortality rates are currently sustainable, although swordfish in the South Pacific may be undergoing overfishing. Bigeye tuna populations are not healthy and fishing pressure is too high. Populations of Pacific bluefin tuna in the North Pacific have been greatly reduced, as much as 96% over time, and fishing mortality rates are currently too high. The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) manages bigeye and yellowfin tuna in the WCPO and albacore tuna in the South Pacific, while the WCPFC and Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission manage swordfish, albacore, and Pacific bluefin tuna throughout the North Pacific. The Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna manages southern bluefin tuna throughout its range. Both organizations have provided few management measures specific to these species and have been only moderately effective in enforcing them. Pelagic longline gears typically have little to no contact with bottom habitats, but do interact with ecologically important species, and these interactions could have negative effects on the ecosystem.

5 Table of Conservation s and Overall Recommendations Stock / Fishery Yellowfin tuna Western Central Pacific - Longline, Pelagic Albacore tuna North Pacific - Longline, Pelagic Albacore tuna South Pacific - Longline, Pelagic Bigeye tuna Western Central Pacific - Longline, Pelagic Pacific bluefin tuna North Pacific - Longline, Pelagic Swordfish North Pacific - Longline, Pelagic Swordfish South Pacific - Longline, Pelagic Southern bluefin tuna South Pacific - Longline, Pelagic Impacts on the Stock Impacts on other Spp. Management Habitat and Ecosystem Overall Recommendation Green (5.00) Red (1.00) Red (1.00) Green (3.87) Avoid (2.098) Green (3.83) Critical (0.00) Red (1.00) Green (3.87) Avoid (0.000) Green (4.47) Red (1.00) Red (1.00) Green (3.87) Avoid (2.040) Red (1.41) Red (1.00) Red (1.00) Green (3.87) Avoid (1.530) Critical (0.00) Green (5.00) Critical (0.00) Yellow (3.05) Red (0.95) Red (1.00) Green (3.87) Avoid (0.000) Red (1.00) Green (3.87) Avoid (0.000) Red (1.00) Red (1.00) Green (3.87) Avoid (1.854) Red (1.92) Red (1.00) Red (1.00) Green (3.87) Avoid (1.650) Scoring Guide Scores range from zero to five where zero indicates very poor performance and five indicates the fishing operations have no significant impact. Final Score = geometric mean of the four Scores (Criterion 1, Criterion 2, Criterion 3, Criterion 4). Best Choice/Green = Final Score >3.2, and no Red Criteria, and no Critical scores Good Alternative/Yellow = Final score >2.2, and neither Harvest Strategy (Factor 3.1) nor Bycatch Management Strategy (Factor 3.2) are Very High, 2 and no more than one Red Criterion, and no Critical scores, and does not meet the criteria for Best Choice (above) Avoid/Red = Final Score <=2.2, or either Harvest Strategy (Factor 3.1) or Bycatch Management Strategy (Factor 3.2) is Very High, 2 or two or more Red Criteria, or one or more Critical scores. 2 Because effective management is an essential component of sustainable fisheries, Seafood Watch issues an Avoid recommendation for any fishery scored as a Very High for either factor under Management (Criterion 3).

6 Table of Contents About Seafood Watch... 2 Guiding Principles... 3 Summary... 4 Introduction... 7 Assessment... 19 Criterion 1: Stock for which you want a recommendation... 19 Criterion 2: Impacts on Other Species... 30 Criterion 3: Management effectiveness... 93 Criterion 4: Impacts on the habitat and ecosystem... 108 Acknowledgements... 112 References... 113

7 Introduction Scope of the analysis and ensuing recommendation This report is on the pelagic longline fisheries for Western and Central Pacific populations of bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) and yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) and for North and South Pacific populations of swordfish (Xiphias gladius), albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga), Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis), and southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii). Overview of the species and management bodies Swordfish is a widely distributed billfish species, found globally from 50 N to 50 S and at all longitudes in the Pacific Ocean. Swordfish are assessed as two populations in the North Pacific (Western and Central Pacific Ocean [WCPO] and Eastern Pacific), a single population in the South-West Pacific, two populations in the Atlantic (South and North), and a single population in both the Indian Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Albacore tuna are widely distributed in temperate and tropical waters in all oceans. There are six managed populations of albacore tuna: North and South Pacific Ocean, North and South Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, and Mediterranean Sea (ISCAWG 2014). Bigeye and yellowfin tuna are found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Pacific Ocean (Davies et al. 2014) (Rice et al. 2014) (Davies et al. 2014b). There are four populations of bigeye and yellowfin tuna: Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO), Eastern Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Indian Ocean. Pacific bluefin tuna are a single stock found throughout the North Pacific Ocean. Southern bluefin tuna are only found in the southern hemisphere, primarily in the Indian, Atlantic, and Western Pacific Ocean; they are uncommonly found in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. This species migrates from the south coast of Australia and the central Indian Ocean as juveniles, and remains in offshore waters as adults. There is only one known spawning location: southeast of Java, Indonesia in the Indian Ocean (IOTC 2013). Globally, longlines are the most common method used to capture swordfish, albacore, and bigeye tuna, while purse seines are the primary gear used to capture Pacific bluefin and yellowfin tuna. The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) is in charge of management of swordfish, albacore, bigeye, and yellowfin tuna in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean. The Inter- American Tropical Tuna Commission is also in charge of management of swordfish, Pacific bluefin, and albacore tuna in the North Pacific, and swordfish in the South Pacific. The Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna manages that species throughout its range.

8 Production Statistics Catches of swordfish in the Western and Central North Pacific Ocean have varied over time, peaking during the late 1950s and again during the early to mid 1990s. Catches in recent years have declined to below 13,000 t (ISCBWG 2014). In the South Pacific Ocean, the majority of swordfish are captured by longline fisheries. Total catches in this region have been increasing over time, fluctuating around 6,000 t in recent years (Davies et al. 2013). Figure 1: Swordfish landings (mt) in the Western and Central North Pacific Ocean (1951-2012) (ISC 2014).

9 Figure 2: Major contributors to U.S. swordfish imports (%), all countries (country of origin) (NMFS 2014). Longline fisheries for albacore tuna in the North Pacific catch less then half of all albacore in the region. The total catches of albacore in the North Pacific have ranged from a low of 37,000 t in 1991 to highs of 126,000 t and 125,000 in 1976 and 1999, respectively (ISCAWG 2014). Annual catches between 2006-2012 averaged around 78,000 t (IATTC 2014). The major fisheries for albacore tuna in the South Pacific are several distant-water longline fleets (Japan, Chinese Taipei, and China) along with some Pacific Island countries domestic longline fleets. Longline fishing has increased since the mid-1990s due to the development and expansion of small-scale fisheries in the Pacific Island countries (American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu). Since 2000, catches of albacore in the South Pacific have increased to more than 80,000 mt, with the majority being caught by the longline fishery (Hoyle et al. 2012).

Figure 3: Catches of North Pacific albacore by major gear types, 1966 2012. The Other gear category includes catches with purse seine, recreational gear, hand lines, and harpoons (ISCAWG 2014). 10

11 Figure 4: Catches of albacore tuna in the South Pacific by gear types, 1950-2011 (Hoyle et al. 2012). Total catches of bigeye tuna in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean have increased over time, peaking in the mid 2000s at just under 200,000 mt. Longline catches of bigeye tuna in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO) ranged from 44,000 to 62,000 t between 1980 and 1993, and since 2004 have ranged from 67,000 t to 77,000 t (Davies et al. 2014). The majority of bigeye catches occur within equatorial regions of the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (Williams and Terewasi 2014).

12 Figure 5: Total annual catch (thousands of mt) of bigeye tuna from the WCPO by fishing method, 1952 2012 (Harley et al. 2014). Total catches of yellowfin tuna in the WCPO have increased over time from a low of under 50,000 t during the mid-1950s to over 600,000 t in 2008 and 2012. Annual catches of yellowfin tuna by longliners in the WCPO have been around 70,000 to 80,000 t since the mid-1980s (Davies et al. 2014b).

13 Figure 6: Annual catches (thousands of t) of yellowfin tuna in the WCPO by fishing gear, 1952 2012 (Davies et al. 2014). Purse seines catch the majority of bluefin tuna, followed by troll, longline, and set nets in recent years. Information on historical Pacific bluefin catches (total) is limited, although data sets since 1804 and the early 1900s are available from Japan and the United States, respectively. Catches were high from 1929 to 1940, peaking at 59,000 mt in 1935. In 1949, as the Japanese fleet moved across the North Pacific Ocean, catches increased significantly. Since 1952 (when catch reporting improved), the majority of Pacific bluefin tuna have been caught by Japan. Historically, the United States was the second-most important fishing nation for Pacific bluefin tuna. The United States began targeting Pacific bluefin tuna during the early part of the 20th century, with catches throughout the region peaking between 1929 and 1940. But since the late 1990s, Mexico has replaced the United States as the second-largest fishing nation for Pacific bluefin. Annual catches have been under 20,000 t during the past few years, with a very small proportion being made up by handline and troll and pole gears (ISCPBWG 2014).

14 Figure 7: Annual catches of Pacific bluefin tuna by gear, 1952 2013 (ISCPBWG 2014). Only a small proportion of southern bluefin tuna (16%) is caught in the Pacific Ocean. Total catches of southern bluefin tuna peaked in the 1960s at around 82,000 t, with just under 80,000 t coming from the longline fishery. Catches have declined significantly since then, and were only around 10,000 t in 2012, with around half coming from the longline fleet. Catches in the Pacific Ocean have ranged from 800 t to

15 19,000 t since 1968, with an average catch of 5,500 t (IOTC 2013). Figure: 8: Southern Bluefin tuna catches, 1952 2012 (IOTC 2013). Importance to the U.S./North American market During 2013, the United States imported the largest part (39%) of its albacore tuna from Thailand. Other countries that the United States imports large amounts of albacore from include Vietnam (20%) and Indonesia (16%) (NMFS 2014).

16 Figure 9: Major contributors to U.S. albacore tuna imports (%) all countries and region (country of origin) (NMFS 2014). The United States imported around 19% of its bigeye tuna from Ecuador, 16% from the Marshall Islands, and 14% from Sri Lanka during 2013 (NMFS 2014). Figure 10: Major contributors to U.S. bigeye tuna imports (%) all countries and regions (country of origin) (NMFS 2014) The largest portion of yellowfin tuna was imported from Trinidad and Tobago in 2013 (49%). Smaller amounts were imported from the Philippines (7%), Vietnam (6%), and Indonesia (5%) (NMFS 2014).

17 Figure 11: Major contributors to U.S. yellowfin tuna imports (%) all countries and regions (country of origin) (NMFS 2014). During 2013, swordfish imports into the United States were primarily from Ecuador (24%), Canada (14%), and Costa Rica (12%) and Singapore (14%). Figure 12: Major contributors to U.S. swordfish imports (%), all countries (country of origin) (NMFS 2014). During 2013, the United States imported the largest portion (36%) of its Pacific bluefin tuna from Spain, followed by Japan (23%) and Mexico (15%). Total imports during 2012 were 128.5 t. Export data are for Atlantic and Pacific bluefin tuna combined. During 2012, 396.7 t of fresh and 114.5 t of frozen bluefin

18 tuna were exported, primarily to Japan (NMFS 2014). Figure 13: Pacific bluefin tuna imports (percentage), 2013, for all countries and regions (country of origin) (NMFS 2014). The United States imports the largest portion of its southern bluefin tuna from New Zealand (47%), followed by Japan (33%) (NMFS 2014). Common and market names Swordfish is also known as broadbilled swordfish, broadbill, espada, and emperado. Albacore tuna is also known as germon, longfinned tuna, albecore, and T. germo. In Hawaii, albacore tuna is known as tombo ahi; bigeye and yellowfin tuna are known as Ahi; skipjack as Aku; and swordfish as mekajiki. Bluefin tuna is also known as giant bluefin, northern bluefin tuna, tunny, and oriental tuna. Southern bluefin tuna is also known as southern tunny or tunny. Primary product forms Swordfish, albacore, bigeye, and yellowfin tuna are sold in fresh and frozen forms. Albacore tuna is sold primarily in canned form but also in fresh and frozen form.

19 Assessment This section assesses the sustainability of the fishery(s) relative to the Seafood Watch Criteria for Fisheries, available at http://www.seafoodwatch.org. Criterion 1: Stock for which you want a recommendation This criterion evaluates the impact of fishing mortality on the species, given its current abundance. The inherent vulnerability to fishing rating influences how abundance is scored, when abundance is unknown. The final Criterion 1 score is determined by taking the geometric mean of the abundance and fishing mortality scores. The Criterion 1 rating is determined as follows: Score >3.2=Green or Low Score >2.2 and <=3.2=Yellow or Moderate Score <=2.2=Red or High Rating is Critical if Factor 1.3 (Fishing Mortality) is Critical. Criterion 1 Summary ALBACORE TUNA Region / Method North Pacific Longline, Pelagic South Pacific Longline, Pelagic Inherent Stock Status Vulnerability 2.00:Medium 4.00:Low 2.00:Medium 4.00:Low Fishing Subscore Mortality 3.67:Low Green (3.831) 5.00:Very Low Green (4.472) BIGEYE TUNA Region / Method Western Central Pacific Longline, Pelagic Inherent Stock Status Vulnerability 2.00:Medium 2.00:High Fishing Mortality 1.00:High Subscore Red (1.414) PACIFIC BLUEFIN TUNA Region / Method North Pacific Longline, Pelagic Inherent Stock Status Vulnerability 2.00:Medium 2.00:High Fishing Subscore Mortality 0.00:Critical Critical (0.000)

20 SOUTHERN BLUEFIN TUNA Region / Method South Pacific Longline, Pelagic Inherent Vulnerability 1.00:High Stock Status Fishing Mortality 1.00:Very High 3.67:Low Subscore Red (1.916) SWORDFISH Region / Method North Pacific Longline, Pelagic South Pacific Longline, Pelagic Inherent Vulnerability Stock Status Fishing Mortality Subscore 2.00:Medium 5.00:Very Low 5.00:Very Low Green (5.000) 2.00:Medium 4.00:Low 2.33:Moderate Yellow (3.053) YELLOWFIN TUNA Region / Method Western Central Pacific Longline, Pelagic Inherent Vulnerability Stock Status Fishing Mortality 2.00:Medium 5.00:Very Low 5.00:Very Low Subscore Green (5.000) Populations of albacore tuna and swordfish in the North and South Pacific Ocean are healthy and fishing mortality rates appear sustainable, although there is the possibility that swordfish in the South Pacific are undergoing overfishing. Populations of Pacific bluefin tuna in the North Pacific Ocean have been greatly reduced, as much as 96% over time, and fishing mortality rates are currently too high. Throughout the Western and Central Pacific Ocean, skipjack and yellowfin tuna populations are healthy and fishing mortality rates are low, but bigeye are in an overfished state and overfishing is currently occurring. Criterion 1 Assessment Factor 1.1 - Inherent Vulnerability Scoring Guidelines Low The FishBase vulnerability score for species is 0-35, OR species exhibits life history characteristics that make it resilient to fishing, (e.g., early maturing ( Medium The FishBase vulnerability score for species is 36-55, OR species exhibits life history characteristics that make it neither particularly vulnerable nor resilient to fishing, (e.g., moderate age at sexual maturity (5-15 years), moderate maximum age (10-25 years), moderate maximum size, and middle of food chain).

21 High The FishBase vulnerability score for species is 56-100, OR species exhibits life history characteristics that make is particularly vulnerable to fishing, (e.g., long-lived (>25 years), late maturing (>15 years), low reproduction rate, large body size, and top-predator). Note: The FishBase vulnerability scores is an index of the inherent vulnerability of marine fishes to fishing based on life history parameters: maximum length, age at first maturity, longevity, growth rate, natural mortality rate, fecundity, spatial behaviors (e.g., schooling, aggregating for breeding, or consistently returning to the same sites for feeding or reproduction) and geographic range. Factor 1.2 - Stock Status Scoring Guidelines 5 (Very Low ) Strong evidence exists that the population is above target abundance level (e.g., biomass at maximum sustainable yield, BMSY) or near virgin biomass. 4 (Low ) Population may be below target abundance level, but it is considered not overfished 3 (Moderate ) Abundance level is unknown and the species has a low or medium inherent vulnerability to fishing. 2 (High ) Population is overfished, depleted, or a species of concern, OR abundance is unknown and the species has a high inherent vulnerability to fishing. 1 (Very High ) Population is listed as threatened or endangered. Factor 1.3 - Fishing Mortality Scoring Guidelines 5 (Very Low ) Highly likely that fishing mortality is below a sustainable level (e.g., below fishing mortality at maximum sustainable yield, FMSY), OR fishery does not target species and its contribution to the mortality of species is negligible ( 5% of a sustainable level of fishing mortality). 3.67 (Low ) Probable (>50%) chance that fishing mortality is at or below a sustainable level, but some uncertainty exists, OR fishery does not target species and does not adversely affect species, but its contribution to mortality is not negligible, OR fishing mortality is unknown, but the population is healthy and the species has a low susceptibility to the fishery (low chance of being caught). 2.33 (Moderate ) Fishing mortality is fluctuating around sustainable levels, OR fishing mortality is unknown and species has a moderate-high susceptibility to the fishery and, if species is depleted, reasonable management is in place.

22 1 (High ) Overfishing is occurring, but management is in place to curtail overfishing, OR fishing mortality is unknown, species is depleted, and no management is in place. 0 (Critical) Overfishing is known to be occurring and no reasonable management is in place to curtail overfishing. ALBACORE TUNA Factor 1.1 - Inherent Vulnerability Medium FishBase assigned a high vulnerability score of 58 out of 100 (Froese and Pauly 2013). However, the life history characteristics of albacore suggest only a medium vulnerability to fishing. For example, albacore reach sexual maturity between 5 and 6 years of age and reach a maximum age of 15 years (ISCAWG 2011). They are broadcast spawners and top predators (Froese and Pauly 2013). Based on these lifehistory characteristics, this is scored as medium vulnerability. Factor 1.2 - Stock Status Low The most recent stock assessment for albacore tuna in the North Pacific Ocean was conducted in 2014. According to this assessment, the spawning stock biomass (SSB) in 2012 (last year of data included in the model) was 110,101 t, with stock depletion estimated to be 35.8% of the unfished SSB. No biomassbased reference points are in place, but the assessment concluded that there was little indication that the SSB was below any candidate biomass-based reference points. This is scored as low concern rather than very low concern because even though it is likely that albacore tuna in the North Pacific are not overfished, no reference points are currently accepted (ISCAWG 2014). Low Albacore tuna in the South Pacific were last assessed in 2012 and the results were quite similar to previous assessments (2009 and 2011). According to the assessment, the total biomass of albacore tuna

23 has been reduced to around 82% (62% 93%) of unfished levels, while the spawning biomass (mature females) has been reduced to 63% (35% 80%) of unfished levels. Both of these are considered moderate levels of depletion. The ratios of the current total biomass and spawning biomass to that needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (B current /B MSY = 1.6 (1.4 1.9) and SB current /SB MSY = 2.6 (1.5-5.2)) are both above 1. However, several issues were addressed during this assessment: chiefly, the unrealistic declines in abundance during the early part of the time series and the high uncertainty surrounding increases in recruitment in recent years (Hoyle et al. 2012). This is scored as low concern because the model suggests a healthy stock but there is a large amount of uncertainty surrounding these results. Factor 1.3 - Fishing Mortality Low The current fishing mortality rate (F 2010 2012 ) for albacore tuna in the North Pacific Ocean is around 72% of the interim reference point (F SSB-ATHL50%, which is the fishing mortality rate that would lead to future minimum SSB falling below the SSB-ATHL threshold level at least once during a 25-year projection period; ATHL is the average ten historical lowest levels). In addition, the current fishing mortality rate (F 2010-2012 ) is below some F-based reference points (F MSY, F 0.1, and F 10% 40% (fishing mortality that gives 10% 50% reduction in the spawning potential ratio)) except F MED and F 50%. Albacore tuna in the North Pacific Ocean are therefore not currently undergoing overfishing. However, increases in fishing mortality rates will significantly reduce the spawning biomass (ISCAWG 2014). This results in a score of low concern rather than very low concern. Very Low According to the most recent stock assessment (2012), the fishing mortality reference point for albacore tuna in the South Pacific, F current /F MSY, had a median estimate of 0.21 (0.04 1.08) and there is a low risk that overfishing is occurring. BIGEYE TUNA Factor 1.1 - Inherent Vulnerability

24 Medium FishBase assigned a high to very high vulnerability of 72 out of 100 (Froese and Pauly 2013). However, bigeye tuna s life-history characteristics suggest a medium vulnerability to fishing. For example, bigeye tuna reach sexual maturity around 100 125 cm, reach a maximum length of 200 cm, and live around 11 years (Davies et al. 2014) (Froese et al. 2013). They are broadcast spawners and top predators (Froese and Pauly 2013). Based on the Seafood Watch productivity analysis table, these life-history characteristics suggest a medium level of vulnerability. Other methods may suggest a different vulnerability rating. However, because the stock status of bigeye tuna is known, this inherent vulnerability score will not affect the overall outcome. Therefore, this is scored as medium vulnerability based on the productivity table analysis. Factor 1.2 - Stock Status High Bigeye tuna in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO) were last assessed in 2014. According to the base case model, the ratio of the current average (2008 2011) spawning biomass to that needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (SB current /SB MSY ) was 0.94 and the ratio of the latest (2012) spawning biomass (mature fish) to that needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (SB latest /SB MSY ) was 0.77, indicating that the population is overfished (Harley et al. 2014). This results in a score of high concern. Factor 1.3 - Fishing Mortality High For all model runs, the ratios of current fishing mortality rates to those that produce the maximum sustainable yield (F current /F MSY ) were much higher than 1, with the ratio from all runs estimated at 1.57, indicating that overfishing is occurring. Based on this estimate, fishing mortality needs to be reduced by more than 30% from 2008 2011 levels to become sustainable (Harley et al. 2014). Based on the assessment results that overfishing is occurring and has been for some time, this is scored as high concern score.

25 PACIFIC BLUEFIN TUNA Factor 1.1 - Inherent Vulnerability Medium FishBase assigned a high vulnerability score of 60 out of 100 (Froese and Pauly 2013). Pacific bluefin tuna reach sexual maturity between 3 and 5 years of age and around 150 cm length (PBTWG 2012). Maximums of 300 cm and 15 years have been reported. Pacific bluefin tuna are broadcast spawners and have a high trophic level according to FishBase (Froese and Pauly 2013). Based on these life-history characteristics, Pacific bluefin tuna has a moderate level of vulnerability, so the score is adjusted to medium. Factor 1.2 - Stock Status High The most recent stock assessment for Pacific bluefin tuna was conducted in 2014. There are no accepted target or limit reference points for Pacific bluefin tuna, but the ratio of spawning stock biomass (SSB) in 2012 to virgin levels is low, indicating that the SSB is currently only 2% 5% of the unfished level. The population of Pacific bluefin tuna is therefore considered overfished (ISCPBWG 2014) and this is scored as high concern. Factor 1.3 - Fishing Mortality Critical There are no target or limit reference points for Pacific bluefin tuna, but the current F (2009 2011 average) is higher than all target and biological reference points commonly used in other fisheries (F MAX, F MED, and F 20% ). It is currently thought that overfishing is occurring (ISCPBWG 2014). Additional management measures have recently been agreed upon that will help reduce fishing mortality rates for this species. But according to the scientific advice, these measures will not be enough to rebuild the population within 10 years (WCPFC 2014) (ISCPBWG 2014). Thus this is scored as critical.

26 SOUTHERN BLUEFIN TUNA Factor 1.1 - Inherent Vulnerability High FishBase assigned a high to very high vulnerability score of 67 out of 100 (Froese and Pauly 2013). Southern bluefin tuna reach sexual maturity after at least 8 years of age and at 155 cm in length, but perhaps not until 15 years of age. They reach a total length of 2 m and can live up to 42 years (IOTC 2013e). Southern bluefin tuna is a top predator and is considered a broadcast spawner (Froese and Pauly 2013). Based on the FishBase score, this is scored as high vulnerability. Factor 1.2 - Stock Status Very High The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified southern bluefin tuna as Critically Endangered (Collette et al. 2011e). According to the latest stock assessment, the current spawning biomass of southern bluefin tuna is a small fraction of virgin levels and well below the level needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (SB current /SB MSY = 0.229 (0.146 0.320)). But at current catch levels, the population is expected to increase. Catch rates from the Japanese longline fishery have been increasing since 2007 for some age classes, and aerial surveys have indicated a recent increase in abundance in 2013 to the second-highest in history (IOTC 2013e). This is scored as very high concern based on the current low biomass levels and IUCN status. Factor 1.3 - Fishing Mortality Low Fishing mortality rates have decreased for southern bluefin tuna and are now below those needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (F current /F MSY = 0.76 (0.52 1.07)). In addition, reported catches are below the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) levels, and current exploitation rates are considered moderate (IOTC 2013e). This is scored as low instead of very low concern score because fishing mortality rates have just decreased to sustainable levels and current exploitation rates are considered moderate.

27 SWORDFISH Factor 1.1 - Inherent Vulnerability Medium FishBase assigned a high to very high vulnerability of 72 out of 100 (Froese and Pauly 2013). But the lifehistory characteristics of swordfish indicate a lower vulnerability to fishing. For example, swordfish reach sexual maturity at around 180 cm in length and around 5 years of age, and they reach a maximum length of 455 cm and live more than 10 years. Swordfish is a broadcast spawner and top predator (Froese and Pauly 2013). This is more indicative of a medium vulnerability to fishing. Factor 1.2 - Stock Status Very Low In 2014, an assessment for swordfish in the North Pacific was conducted. This assessment considered two populations: one in the Western and Central Pacific (WCPO) and one in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. According to this model, the exploitable biomass for the population in the WCPO fluctuated at or above the level needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (B MSY ) for most of the time series (1951 2012) and there is a low probability (14%) of the biomass being below B MSY in 2012 (ISCBWG 2014). This results in a score of very low concern. Low In 2013, an updated assessment of swordfish in the southern region of the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO) was conducted. This updated stock assessment included both the South-West Pacific (SWP) as well as the South-Central Pacific (SCP). Compared to the 2008 assessment, this updated one was able to determine abundance estimates for both regions. However, considerable uncertainty still surrounded the assumptions made with regard to growth, maturity, and mortality (age-specific). Standardized catch rates for the main fleets declined drastically between 1997 and 2011, and the mean size also decreased in the main fisheries. The total and spawning biomasses have declined since the late 1990s and the current levels are 44% 68% and 27% 55% of virgin levels, respectively. The ratios of

28 biomass and spawning biomass levels (mature fish) to those needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) range from 1.15 1.85 and 1.15 3.53, respectively, indicating that the population is not overfished (Davies et al. 2013). This results in a low but not very low concern score due to the high level of uncertainty. Factor 1.3 - Fishing Mortality Very Low In 2014, an assessment for swordfish was in the North Pacific was conducted. Exploitation rates in this region peaked in the 1960s and have declined since. The current fishing mortality rate (F 2010 2012 ) is 15%, which is lower than the level necessary to produce the maximum sustainable yield (F MSY = 25%). It is highly unlikely (<1%) that fishing mortality rates (F) are unsustainable, so overfishing is not occurring (ISCBWG 2014). This results in a score of very low concern. Moderate According to the updated 2013 assessment of swordfish in the South-West Pacific Ocean, catches are around levels needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) (82% 102%). The fishing mortality rate for juvenile swordfish increased in the mid-1990s, and the ratio of current fishing mortality rates to those needed to produce MSY ranges from 0.33 to 1.77. This indicates that the population under some assumptions may be undergoing overfishing (Davies et al. 2013). This results in a moderate but not low concern score. YELLOWFIN TUNA Factor 1.1 - Inherent Vulnerability Medium FishBase assigned a moderate to high vulnerability of 46 out of 100 (Froese and Pauly 2013). Yellowfin tuna s life-history characteristics support a moderate vulnerability score. Yellowfin tuna reaches sexual maturity by 100 cm in length (although growth rates vary by location) and 2 3 years of age. It can attain a maximum size of 180 cm and live to at least 4 and perhaps as much as 9 years. It is a broadcast

29 spawner and an important predator in the ecosystem (Langley et al. 2011) (Froese and Pauly 2013). Factor 1.2 - Stock Status Very Low The biomass-based reference point for the reference model used in the 2014 assessment (SB current /SB MSY, which is the ratio of the current (2008 2011) spawning (mature fish) biomass to that needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield) was 1.37. The ratio of the latest (2012) spawning biomass to the level needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (SB current /SB MSY ) was 1.24. Therefore yellowfin tuna are not in an overfished state (Davies et al. 2014b). This results in a very low concern score. Factor 1.3 - Fishing Mortality Very Low The current fishing mortality rate is below levels needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (F current /F MSY = 0.72) for the most realistic models. Therefore overfishing is not occurring (Davies et al. 2014). This results in a very low concern score.

30 Criterion 2: Impacts on Other Species All main retained and bycatch species in the fishery are evaluated in the same way as the species under assessment were evaluated in Criterion 1. Seafood Watch defines bycatch as all fisheries-related mortality or injury to species other than the retained catch. Examples include discards, endangered or threatened species catch, and ghost fishing. To determine the final Criterion 2 score, the score for the lowest scoring retained/bycatch species is multiplied by the discard rate score (ranges from 0-1), which evaluates the amount of non-retained catch (discards) and bait use relative to the retained catch. The Criterion 2 rating is determined as follows: Score >3.2=Green or Low Score >2.2 and <=3.2=Yellow or Moderate Score <=2.2=Red or High Rating is Critical if Factor 2.3 (Fishing Mortality) is Critical. Criterion 2 Summary Albacore tuna: Subscore:: 0.000 Discard Rate: 0.95 C2 Rate: 0.000 Species Inherent Stock Status Fishing Subscore Vulnerability Mortality PACIFIC BLUEFIN TUNA Medium 2.00: High 0.00: Critical 0.000 LEATHERBACK TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High 1.000 High LOGGERHEAD TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High 1.000 High BIGEYE TUNA Medium 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS High 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 OCEANIC WHITETIP SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 SHORTFIN MAKO SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 SILKY SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 STRIPED MARLIN Medium 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 LAYSAN ALBATROSS High 2.00: High 2.33: 2.159 Moderate OPAH Medium 3.00: 2.33: 2.644

31 Moderate ALBACORE TUNA Medium 4.00: Low BLUE MARLIN Medium 4.00: Low BLUE SHARK High 4.00: Low SWORDFISH Medium 5.00: Very Low YELLOWFIN TUNA Medium 5.00: Very Low Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 5.00: Very Low 5.00: Very Low 3.831 3.831 3.831 5.000 5.000 Albacore tuna: Subscore:: 1.000 Discard Rate: 1.00 C2 Rate: 1.000 Species Inherent Vulnerability Stock Status Fishing Mortality LEATHERBACK TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High High LOGGERHEAD TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High High BIGEYE TUNA Medium 2.00: High 1.00: High BLUE SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High OCEANIC WHITETIP SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High SHORTFIN MAKO SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High SILKY SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High GREEN SEA TURTLE High 1.00: Very 2.33: High Moderate SOUTHERN BLUEFIN TUNA High 1.00: Very 3.67: Low High GREY PETREL High 2.00: High OLIVE RIDLEY TURTLE High 2.00: High SALVIN'S ALBATROSS High 2.00: High 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate Subscore 1.000 1.000 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.526 1.916 2.159 2.159 2.159

32 WANDERING ALBATROSS High 2.00: High WHITE-CHINNED PETREL High 2.00: High BLACK MARLIN Medium 3.00: Moderate OPAH Medium 3.00: Moderate BLACK-BROWED ALBATROSS High 2.00: High LIGHT-MANTLED ALBATROSS High 2.00: High FLESH-FOOTED SHEARWATER High 4.00: Low SWORDFISH Medium 4.00: Low STRIPED MARLIN Medium 3.00: Moderate BLUE MARLIN Medium 4.00: Low ALBACORE TUNA Medium 4.00: Low YELLOWFIN TUNA Medium 5.00: Very Low 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 5.00: Very Low 5.00: Very Low 2.159 2.159 2.644 2.644 2.709 2.709 3.053 3.053 3.318 3.831 4.472 5.000 Bigeye tuna: Subscore:: 1.000 Discard Rate: 1.00 C2 Rate: 1.000 Species Inherent Stock Status Fishing Subscore Vulnerability Mortality HAWKSBILL TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High 1.000 High LEATHERBACK TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High 1.000 High LOGGERHEAD TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High 1.000 High BIGEYE TUNA Medium 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 OCEANIC WHITETIP SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414

33 SHORTFIN MAKO SHARK High 2.00: High SILKY SHARK High 2.00: High STRIPED MARLIN Medium 2.00: High GREEN SEA TURTLE High 1.00: Very High OLIVE RIDLEY TURTLE High 2.00: High BLACK MARLIN Medium 3.00: Moderate OPAH Medium 3.00: Moderate SWORDFISH Medium 4.00: Low BLUE MARLIN Medium 4.00: Low BLUE SHARK High 4.00: Low YELLOWFIN TUNA Medium 5.00: Very Low 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 5.00: Very Low 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.526 2.159 2.644 2.644 3.053 3.831 3.831 5.000 Pacific bluefin tuna: Subscore:: 1.000 Discard Rate: 0.95 C2 Rate: 0.950 Species Inherent Vulnerability Stock Status PACIFIC BLUEFIN TUNA Medium 2.00: High LEATHERBACK TURTLE High 1.00: Very High LOGGERHEAD TURTLE High 1.00: Very High BIGEYE TUNA Medium 2.00: High BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS High 2.00: High OCEANIC WHITETIP SHARK High 2.00: High Fishing Subscore Mortality 0.00: Critical 0.000 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.000 1.000 1.414 1.414 1.414

34 SHORTFIN MAKO SHARK High 2.00: High SILKY SHARK High 2.00: High STRIPED MARLIN Medium 2.00: High LAYSAN ALBATROSS High 2.00: High OPAH Medium 3.00: Moderate ALBACORE TUNA Medium 4.00: Low BLUE MARLIN Medium 4.00: Low BLUE SHARK High 4.00: Low SWORDFISH Medium 5.00: Very Low YELLOWFIN TUNA Medium 5.00: Very Low 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 5.00: Very Low 5.00: Very Low 1.414 1.414 1.414 2.159 2.644 3.831 3.831 3.831 5.000 5.000 Southern bluefin tuna: Subscore:: 1.000 Discard Rate: 1.00 C2 Rate: 1.000 Species Inherent Stock Status Fishing Subscore Vulnerability Mortality LEATHERBACK TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High 1.000 High LOGGERHEAD TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High 1.000 High BIGEYE TUNA Medium 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 BLUE SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 OCEANIC WHITETIP SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 SHORTFIN MAKO SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 SILKY SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High 1.414 GREEN SEA TURTLE High 1.00: Very 2.33: 1.526 High Moderate SOUTHERN BLUEFIN TUNA High 1.00: Very 3.67: Low 1.916

35 High GREY PETREL High 2.00: High 2.33: Moderate OLIVE RIDLEY TURTLE High 2.00: High SALVIN'S ALBATROSS High 2.00: High WANDERING ALBATROSS High 2.00: High WHITE-CHINNED PETREL High 2.00: High BLACK MARLIN Medium 3.00: Moderate OPAH Medium 3.00: Moderate BLACK-BROWED ALBATROSS High 2.00: High LIGHT-MANTLED ALBATROSS High 2.00: High FLESH-FOOTED SHEARWATER High 4.00: Low SWORDFISH Medium 4.00: Low STRIPED MARLIN Medium 3.00: Moderate BLUE MARLIN Medium 4.00: Low ALBACORE TUNA Medium 4.00: Low YELLOWFIN TUNA Medium 5.00: Very Low 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 5.00: Very Low 5.00: Very Low 2.159 2.159 2.159 2.159 2.159 2.644 2.644 2.709 2.709 3.053 3.053 3.318 3.831 4.472 5.000

36 Swordfish: Subscore:: 0.000 Discard Rate: 0.95 C2 Rate: 0.000 Species Inherent Vulnerability Stock Status PACIFIC BLUEFIN TUNA Medium 2.00: High LEATHERBACK TURTLE High 1.00: Very High LOGGERHEAD TURTLE High 1.00: Very High BIGEYE TUNA Medium 2.00: High BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS High 2.00: High OCEANIC WHITETIP SHARK High 2.00: High SHORTFIN MAKO SHARK High 2.00: High SILKY SHARK High 2.00: High STRIPED MARLIN Medium 2.00: High LAYSAN ALBATROSS High 2.00: High OPAH Medium 3.00: Moderate ALBACORE TUNA Medium 4.00: Low BLUE MARLIN Medium 4.00: Low BLUE SHARK High 4.00: Low SWORDFISH Medium 5.00: Very Low YELLOWFIN TUNA Medium 5.00: Very Low Fishing Subscore Mortality 0.00: Critical 0.000 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 1.00: High 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 5.00: Very Low 5.00: Very Low 1.000 1.000 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.414 2.159 2.644 3.831 3.831 3.831 5.000 5.000 Swordfish: Subscore:: 1.000 Discard Rate: 1.00 C2 Rate: 1.000 Species Inherent Stock Status Fishing Subscore Vulnerability Mortality LEATHERBACK TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High 1.000

37 High LOGGERHEAD TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High High BIGEYE TUNA Medium 2.00: High 1.00: High BLUE SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High OCEANIC WHITETIP SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High SHORTFIN MAKO SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High SILKY SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High GREEN SEA TURTLE High 1.00: Very 2.33: High Moderate SOUTHERN BLUEFIN TUNA High 1.00: Very 3.67: Low High GREY PETREL High 2.00: High OLIVE RIDLEY TURTLE High 2.00: High SALVIN'S ALBATROSS High 2.00: High WANDERING ALBATROSS High 2.00: High WHITE-CHINNED PETREL High 2.00: High BLACK MARLIN Medium 3.00: Moderate OPAH Medium 3.00: Moderate BLACK-BROWED ALBATROSS High 2.00: High LIGHT-MANTLED ALBATROSS High 2.00: High FLESH-FOOTED SHEARWATER High 4.00: Low 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 2.33: Moderate 1.000 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.526 1.916 2.159 2.159 2.159 2.159 2.159 2.644 2.644 2.709 2.709 3.053 SWORDFISH Medium 4.00: Low 2.33: 3.053

38 STRIPED MARLIN Medium 3.00: Moderate BLUE MARLIN Medium 4.00: Low ALBACORE TUNA Medium 4.00: Low YELLOWFIN TUNA Medium 5.00: Very Low Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 5.00: Very Low 5.00: Very Low 3.318 3.831 4.472 5.000 Yellowfin tuna: Subscore:: 1.000 Discard Rate: 1.00 C2 Rate: 1.000 Species Inherent Vulnerability Stock Status Fishing Mortality HAWKSBILL TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High High LEATHERBACK TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High High LOGGERHEAD TURTLE High 1.00: Very 1.00: High High BIGEYE TUNA Medium 2.00: High 1.00: High OCEANIC WHITETIP SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High SHORTFIN MAKO SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High SILKY SHARK High 2.00: High 1.00: High STRIPED MARLIN Medium 2.00: High 1.00: High GREEN SEA TURTLE High 1.00: Very 2.33: High Moderate OLIVE RIDLEY TURTLE High 2.00: High BLACK MARLIN Medium 3.00: Moderate OPAH Medium 3.00: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate 2.33: Moderate Subscore 1.000 1.000 1.000 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.414 1.526 2.159 2.644 2.644 SWORDFISH Medium 4.00: Low 2.33: 3.053

39 BLUE MARLIN Medium 4.00: Low BLUE SHARK High 4.00: Low YELLOWFIN TUNA Medium 5.00: Very Low Moderate 3.67: Low 3.67: Low 5.00: Very Low 3.831 3.831 5.000 In the North Pacific longline fishery that operates in the Western and Central Pacific region, information on bycatch is limited due to low observer coverage (0.1%) in most fisheries, although some fisheries have substantially higher coverage rates. Tunas, billfish, other fish, sharks, seabirds, sea turtles, and marine mammals have been reported as bycatch (OFP 2010). According to observer records, north of 10 N the majority of tuna species are kept, although skipjack tuna had a discard rate of 35% between 1994 and 2009. Swordfish is the most commonly discarded billfish species (44%), while blue and black marlin are primarily retained. Discard rates for sharks in the North Pacific are very high for the majority of species (ODP 2010). Laysan and black-footed albatross are incidentally captured in the North Pacific region, where they have a high breeding and non-breeding overlap (Clarke et al. 2013) (ACP 2008). The area of most concern for seabird interactions in this region lies between 20 40 N. Information on bycatch of sea turtles in the North Pacific longline fishery is limited (Work and Balazs 2002). The majority of sea turtles are observed caught in the tropical longline fisheries outside of the North Pacific region (Molony 2005). We have provided this information of the main bycatch species, taken from the previously mentioned literature, of the North Pacific albacore tuna fisheries along with additional information for some species. The worst-scoring species in this fishery were the leatherback and loggerhead sea turtles (1.00) because of their low population sizes and high fishing mortality rates. In the South Pacific, information on bycatch interactions is available through observer programs, primarily those of Australia and New Zealand along with MSC assessments for several fisheries (e.g., Fiji and the Cook Islands). Seabird interactions with pelagic longline gear are mostly recorded in EEZ waters in the South Pacific around New Zealand and Australia between 20 50 S (Clarke et al. 2013) (Baker and Wise 2005) (Baker and Finley 2008) (Anderson et al. 2011). It was noted that observers had a difficult time identifying birds to species level, so estimates may underreport interactions (Molony 2005). In the WCPO, the majority of sea turtles are observed caught in the tropical longline fisheries that occur west of 180, and interaction rates are considered to be much less than in other ocean basins (Clarke et al. 2014). Marine mammal interactions and associated mortality rates with the South Pacific albacore tuna longline fishery are reported to be very low (Molony 2005). The worst-scoring species in this fishery are loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles (1.00) due to their low population sizes and high mortality rates. In the Western and Central Pacific (WCPO) longline fishery, tunas, billfish, other fish, sharks, seabirds, sea turtles, and marine mammals are caught as bycatch. Discard rates of these species vary from only 5% for tunas to 96% for sea turtles (OFP 2010) (OFP 2012a). Common shark species include blue, shortfin mako, silky, and oceanic whitetip sharks. Blue sharks represented 19.5%, silky shark 3.5%, mako sharks 2.2%, and oceanic whitetip sharks 1.4% of the total observed catch between 1994 and 2009 (OFP