Scampi: Quick Facts
Scientific name: Metanephrops challengeri
Other names: kourarangi (Maori), NZ scampi, kaisersgranat (Germany), langoustine-de-NZ (France), akaza-ebi (Japan).
Ranking: E (Red - Worst Choice)
Best Fish Guide: Scampi
Ranking: E (Red - Worst Choice)
Alternative Choice: No alternative
Description: This is the largest prawn-like species found in New Zealand waters, although it is actually a small lobster. It is found all around New Zealand at depths of 200 to 750m. The commercial fishery is now under the quota management system after some controversy over allocation of quota. It is caught using specialised deepwater bottom trawls, with fine mesh nets.
Ecological concerns: due to the fishing method, there is a high level of bycatch of fish, invertebrates, marine mammal and seabirds. There is also considerable destruction to seabed habitats, species and associated marine life. Also of concern is the unknown sustainability of recent catch levels and limits in all of the larger quota management areas, the uncertainty about stock boundaries, and the absence of a management plan.
Economic value: Export value of $17.8 million in 2009.
ASSESSMENT OUTPUT
Biology and risk of overfishing (score D)
Status and sustainability of fish catches (score D)
Impact of fishing method and protected, threatened and endangered species captures (score E and E)
Management and management unit (score C and B)
For a full ecological assessment, click here
