Estimating Biological Reference Points of the Pink Shrimp, Farfantepenaeus notialis (Perez-Farfante, 1967) Targeted by Shrimp Trawlers in Sierra Leone

Time series of catch and effort data for Farfantepenaeus notialis were analysed in ‘R’ using a limited state-space Bayesian Catch-maximum Sustainbale Yield (CMSY) method stock assessment from (tonnes) abundance (t/day). The study categorically compared the status F.notialis two periods (1981-1996) (2008-2018) denoted as I II, respectively. Results management based on Schaefer model (BSM) analysis Period gave (Prior relative biomass (B/k) = 0.06; MSY 2.25t , 95% CL 1.98 - 2.56; Fmsy 0.379 yr-1 0.29 0.495; Bmsy 5.94t 4.69 7.51; Biomass 4.78t; B/Bmsy 0.806; Fishing mortality 0.583yr-1 Exploitation rate, F/Fmsy 1.54) while that II showed 0.35; 0.662t, 0.567 0.773; 0.421yr-1 0.314 0.563; 1.58t 1.22 2.04; 1.09t; 0.69; 0.532yr-1 1.27). By implications, all estimated biological reference points portrayed an overfished 1989-1996 2008-2018. Stock recovery measures are strongly advised Sierra Leone.