One of the objective of the coastal observation system is to apply data information and modeling tools to ecosystem based fisheries management in the western Gulf of Maine. Towards obtaining an operational tool, we need to validate (1) the biology of the specie of the fishery under investigation (location and timing of spawning, larval duration, settlement, suitable habitats, behavior…), and (2) the modeling tool (physical model, biological processes such as growth and survival). In this project, we defined as precisely as possible location and timing of spawning of cod and herring in the coastal Gulf of Maine, and suitable nursery areas. Transport is really sensitive to the choices we make in the configuration of the hydrodynamic model. Also, transport from the spawning grounds may be strongly different depending on their location regarding the coastal circulation.

Where and when do fish spawn in the western Gulf of Maine?

About early life stages of fish

Transport of eggs and larvae

Modeling the transport of eggs and larvae

Where are a the suitable nursery areas?

If you want to learn more on our modeling sensitivity analysis:
Poster presentation at the Workshop on advancements in modeling physical-biological interactions in fish early-life history: recommended practices and future directions. Nantes. April 2005.