The western and central Pacific tuna fishery
The tuna fishery in the western and central Pacific Ocean (WCPO), encompassed by the Convention Area of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCP–CA), is a diverse fishery ranging from small-scale, artisanal operations in the coastal waters of Pacific states, to large-scale, industrial purseseine, pole-and-line and longline operations both in the exclusive economic zones of Pacific states and in international waters (high seas). The main species targeted by these fisheries are skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares), bigeye tuna (T. obesus) and albacore tuna (T. alalunga).