Working Party on Billfish (WPB)

Purpose

The Working Party on Billfish (WPB) is the technical body responsible for reviewing and analysing issues related to the fisheries and stock status of the five billfish species under the IOTC mandate: black marlin (Istiompax indica), blue marlin (Makaira nigricans), Indo-Pacific sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus), striped marlin (Kajikia audax), and swordfish (Xiphias gladius). In addition, the shortbill spearfish (Tetrapturus angustirostris) is not assessed, but monitoring of its catch is mandatory under Resolution 15/01 for surface and longline fisheries.

In accordance with its Terms of Reference, the WPB evaluates fisheries data, stock assessments, and management measures for these species, and provides science-based advice and recommendations to the Scientific Committee and the Commission to support sustainable management of billfish in the IOTC area of competence

The WPB reviews and analyses issues relevant to the fisheries and status of the five billfish species under the IOTC mandate:

Billfish Species under IOTC Mandate

English name (click for status)	Scientific name	FAO code	Image
Black marlin	Istiompax indica	BLM
Blue marlin	Makaira nigricans	BUM
Striped marlin	Kajikia audax	MLS
Swordfish	Xiphias gladius	SWO
Indo-Pacific sailfish	Istiophorus platypterus	SFA

Current workplan

You can consult the current program of work for the Scientific Committee and its Working Parties, as endorsed by the Scientific Committee at its most recent Session.

Current Chairperson Dr. Jie Cao (China), 2nd term ends at the close of the WPB in 2027.	Current Vice-Chairperson Dr. Sylvain Bonhommeau (EU France), 2nd term ends at the close of the WPB in 2027.