West Coast Groundfish Observer Program Manual, Part2 - NOAA

CHAPTER 6
III. Biological Specimen Sampling
Biological information is collected on individual fish for a
variety of reasons. In some instances it is pertinent that the
information be collected in a random fashion while in
others, such as with tagged fish, information is, of
necessity, collected in a non-random fashion.
There are four sample methods for biological sampling.
The primary factors used to differentiate these methods
are:
1. Whether the individuals used for biological sampling
were within the species composition sample.
2. Whether the individuals used for biological sampling
were randomly selected.
Biological Sampling Methods
Sample Method 6 – Outside and Nonrandom
• Individuals are not part of a species composition
sample and have NOT been randomly selected.
• Use this method for tagged fish that have been
collected opportunistically during a haul/set.
Sample Method 7 – Outside and Random
• Individuals are not part of a species composition
sample and have been randomly selected.
• Use this method for Pacific halibut when
lengths/viabilities have been taken for randomly
selected individuals from the haul/set but there
was not a species composition sample because
actual weights of halibut were not obtained.
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