TOWARDS AN APPROPRIATE EFFORT-BASED FISHERY MODEL FOR THE TUNA FISHERY OF MALDIVES

Abstract

This paper considers the applicability of the Schaefer model and the Fox
model to the tuna fishing industry of the Maldives. Examinaition of Maldiviao
catch apd effort data throws doubt upon the applicability of these models to this
fishing industry, which depends on a highly migratory species. An alternative production-
type model based on a population threshold assumption is suggested and
found to be much more consistent with Maldivian effort and catch data. Such a
model may also have application to some other fisheries based on migratory
species.