An holistic approach to fish stock identification

The concept of the 'stock' is fundamental for both fisheries and endangered species management. We review different approaches used in identifying and classifying stocks and advocate that an holistic approach (e.g., involving a broad spectrum of complementary techniques) be used in future stock identification studies. Stock definitions should evolve as management requirements do and be re-evaluated when the need arises or when break-through technologies become available. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.