An evaluation of trends in abundance of capelin (Mallotus villosus) from acoustics, aerial surveys and catch rates

Trends in capelin (Mallotus villosus) biomass in NAFO Div. 3L during 1982–89 projected from Canadian acoustic surveys were compared to trends in indices of inshore abundance from aerial surveys and trap catch rates. Trends in the two inshore indices of abundance were significantly correlated with each other but were not significantly correlated with the Canadian series. The major differences occurred during 1986 and 1987. Age-compositions in the inshore mature stock were similar to the age-compositions predicted from the acous-tic surveys although the latter tended to underestimate the proportions of older fish. The time series was short and the relationships tested were not always statistically significant, however, the general agreement in trends of all indices engendered confidence in the ap-proach and especially in the acoustic surveys which provide absolute abundance indices which can be used directly for management advice