The main aim of the Western Channel sole and plaice survey is to show trends
in the distribution, abundance and age composition of sole (Solea solea)
and plaice (Pleuronectes platessa), and to provide some information on
bycatch species in the Western English Channel (ICES Division 7e). At each
station sampled, shot and haul, positional, depth and times information were
recorded, and for all species of fish and shellfish length distribution data
were taken. Otoliths were collected from sole and plaice to provide individual
age at length information.
Up until 2020 the survey time-series (2003 onwards) was funded as part the
Fisheries Science Partnership (FSP) programme.
