The albacore stock in the South Pacific is in good condition.
However, there is direct evidence that tuna fisheries using demersal longlines contribute significantly to the threat to ETP species such as albatrosses and petrels, as well as some species of sharks and sea turtles.
Information on discards is limited, but based on the available information, it can be assumed that mortality resulting from discards accounts for approximately 30% of the total catch. The landings consist mainly of tuna species that are not overfished, but the use of bait is high in this fishery (up to 35% of the catch value), and the stock status and origin of the bait are not always known. In addition, all data on catch composition should be treated with caution due to the low observer coverage. In the long term, the fishery is likely to have a negative impact on the local food web.
The fishing gear does not have a negative impact on vulnerable marine habitats or benthic communities, as it is deployed in the pelagic zone. Carbon emissions and the risk of lost fishing gear are moderate.
There are some measures in place to reduce harm to ETP species, bycatch and discard mortality, but their effectiveness is marginal. Measures to prevent the catch of unmanaged species and further ecosystem impacts are largely lacking.
Although the stock is in good condition, the management and ecological impact of this fishery are insufficient and receive a red assessment.