DFO has released its latest assessment of shrimp stocks, indicating the most fished area in the province is still the one in the hardest shape.

There are three areas that are regularly monitored for the health of shrimp stocks.

According to the latest science and catch reports, Areas 4 and 5, mostly off Labrador, remain in decent shape.

But DFO says the lucrative Area 6, in waters off the north coast of the island, remains in a critical state for the sixth year in a row.

One of the key reasons appears to be water temperature. Shrimp thrive in colder temps at the bottom of the ocean. But DFO says they’ve found some of the warmest temperatures on record, continuing a worrying trend over the past four years.

They also say predation remains a big issue in area 6, but conclude the main culprits are cod as opposed to seals.

Officials admit the overall assessment process is a little out of date, but say they’re working on improving how all data is collected and reviewed.

The information in this latest report will go before a committee of stakeholders next week, and then into the hands of the federal minister for decisions on future quotas.