The available environmental, biological, ecological, and fishery data associated with the exploitation of swordfish (Xiphias gladius) in the eastern South Pacific were analyzed and the literature on models aiming at an ecosystem approach to fisheries management was reviewed. The conceptual model set forth in this work incorporates three planes with processes defined on three spatial (Pacific Ocean, eastern South Pacific, fishing area) and three temporal (interannual, seasonal, intraseasonal) scales. Because of the swordfish’s geographic distribution, life history, and migratory activity, the model must consider several developmental states (eggs and larvae, juveniles, adults) inhabiting different grounds (spawning, breeding, adult feeding). The conceptual model presented herein, without detracting from current operational fisheries research, suggests what must be done to develop integrated fishery management.
