Revival and recent advancements in the spatial fishery models originally conceived by Sidney Holt and Ray Beverton

Sidney Holt and Ray Beverton are primarily recognized for developing the basis of demographic stock assessment modelling, but their enduring legacy continues to influence and guide advancements in many fields of fisheries science. Although largely forgotten, their contributions to spatial modelling laid the foundation for a variety of applications in aquatic and terrestrial populations. Spatial modelling approaches are rapidly evolving beyond even the visionary scope of Beverton and Holt due to advancements in understanding of spatial population structure, collection of spatially explicit data, and statistical parameter estimation. A review of Beverton and Holt’s original movement models demonstrates that understanding the origins and basic underlying assumptions can help ensure that current models are consistent with fundamental principles. Additionally, recent simulation studies show that conforming to or revising spatial model assumptions is essential for accurate estimation. As fisheries science transitions to more complex spatial stock assessment models, understanding their conceptual development and the lessons learned by our predecessors is essential for proper model specification and application.