Paul MacDonald BSc (Aberdeen), MSc (Aberdeen)
Fisheries Scientist

Current Research:

I am currently undertaking a PhD project, registered through the University of Aberdeen, entitled 'Increasing understanding of a data poor species to improve resource management: megrim (Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis) in the northern North Sea'.  The TAC for megrim in the northern North Sea is currently perceived by industry as being overly restrictive and market-driven discarding is therefore widespread.  Megrim is generally a data poor species and, as such, the TAC in ICES area IV is currently set under the precautionary principal.  This study aims to fill current knowledge gaps on biological and ecological factors including reproduction, growth and maturation, and temporal and spatial changes in abundance.  The level of discarding currently undertaken by the fleet will also be investigated, providing a more accurate estimate of fishing mortality.  Finally, fish behaviour in relation to otter trawls will be examined to provide an increased understanding of catchability.  It is anticipated that the results of this study will assist in the future management of this species in the northern North Sea.

Previous Research:

Recent projects I have been involved with include:

• Collection of fisheries and biological data on megrim in ICES sub-area IVa
• Technical measures to enhance selectivity in pelagic fisheries
• Jig fishing pilot study in Shetland coastal waters

Publications:

• Macdonald, P., Laurenson, C.H., Johnson, A., and Tait., L. (2009).  A comparison of catch rates of artificial lures from an automated handline fishery at Shetland, UK.  Fisheries Research 95: 379-385.
• Laurenson, C.H. & Macdonald, P. (2008).  Collection of fisheries and biological data on megrim in ICES Sub-Area IVa.  Scottish Industry Science Partnership (SISP) Report No 05/08, 45p.
• Laurenson, C.H. & Macdonald, P. (2008).  Technical measures to enhance selectivity in pelagic fisheries.  Scottish Industry Science Partnership (SISP) Report No 01/08, 42p.
• Macdonald, P., Laurenson, C.H. & Marrs, S.J. (2007).  The potential of jig fishing as an energy efficient method for catching whitefish around Shetland.  ICES CM 2007/M:02, 17p.
• Macdonald, P., Laurenson, C.H. & Marrs, S.J. (2007).  Jig fishing pilot study in Shetland coastal waters.  NAFC Marine Centre report, 156p.