Field surveys and the survey and charting of resources

Abstract

Considerable exploratory fishing has been conducted in the Indian Ocean, particularly directed towards definition of demersal fish stocks of the Continental Shelf. Sporadic activities have been undertaken to investigate pelagic tuna and associated species. Shelf species are relatively well-known. Bottom fish populations at depths of 200 mt and more are not generally well-known, and shelf areas off East Africa and Australia need more investigation. The abundance of coastal pelagic species require s definition, as does the distribution. Mangrove swamps and coral seas should be considered special ecological zones. Five major projects should be considered: coastal pelagic fish investigations, collection of bottom fish investigations, detailed studies of selected coral seas and mangrove swamp areas, and studies of some pelagic nekton. Investigators on FAO/UNDP Projects should receive specific instructions regarding the data they collect; this information should be deposited at a Regional Dat a Centre and at FAO Headquarters. Field surveys should, when possible, be contracted to national laboratories or to universities or qualified private research groups. Surveys should be regional in character.