Science
The PFA conducts extensive research into various characteristics of fish. In addition to the self-sampling programme carried out on board all our vessels, our team also works on subject-specific research. We do this in collaboration with research institutes, contributing to scientific information about fish stocks.
Every three years, a mackerel egg survey is conducted in the Atlantic Ocean to determine the size of the mackerel spawning biomass. The data is used by ICES (International Council for the Exploration of the Sea) for annual stock estimates and catch advice. Wageningen Marine Research (WMR) conducts this mackerel egg survey in collaboration with other European institutes, and in collaboration with the pelagic fishing sector.
Our scientific work helps researchers estimate the size of a fish population. In close collaboration with the scientists from WMR we collect spawning female samples to be processed in the lab. These females are often difficult to target by the research vessels as they focus on the eggs. By working together, both sides can improve the completeness and quality of information on fish stocks.
The PFA research team acts as the link between these worlds and ensures that information contributes appropriately to knowledge about pelagic fish stocks.
Click here for the fact sheet on Conducting a mackerel egg survey to determine the size of the mackerel spawning biomass: how do we do this?
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Date Posted: 27th January 2026