The marine environment of Cyprus is considered to be in good environmental status by the year 2020 if: (a) no stock is exploited beyond safe biological limits; If Fmsy (or his proxy F0.1) is not known, it will be assessed based on reported captures/biomass index, (b) The spawning stock biomass (SSB) is at a level capable of providing MSY or higher. If SSB is not known, the biomass index from trawl survey will be assessed, (c) Each fish stock contains a high percentage of adult fish and an adequate/normal population structure.

The Fishing mortality rate of populations of commercially-exploited species is at or below levels which can produce the maximum sustainable yield (MSY).

The Spawning Stock Biomass of populations of commercially-exploited species are above biomass levels capable of producing maximum sustainable yield.

The age and size distribution of individuals in the populations of commercially-exploited species is indicative of a healthy population. This shall include a high proportion of old/large individuals and limited adverse effects of exploitation on genetic diversity.