Published by Lyni Gunkler and Abigail Hunt

The environment is ever-changing, and climate change is largely to blame for the decline of healthy populations of wildlife globally. Fish is caught, consumed, imported, and exported in countries near and far, but without proper conservation and management strategies in place to ensure fish populations are not exploited, fisheries as a whole may collapse sooner than we once thought.

Recently, X. H. Wu and colleagues published an article in the ICES Journal of Marine Science to explore this pressing environmental issue with a particular focus on skipjack tuna in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO).

You may have picked up a couple tins of tuna at the supermarket last week to make tuna salad for the week, or ordered a spicy tuna roll at your favorite sushi joint, but where is this fish sourced from? The WCPO is responsible for more than half of global tuna production, so while yes, your tuna may be from someplace nearby, it is very likely that those of us who eat tuna and other fish contribute in some way to this fishery.

Of this large percentage of total tuna output by the WCPO fishery, skipjack tuna is the most abundant species caught. As the environment changes, fish respond by shifting in their distribution which can make setting annual harvest allocations difficult for fisheries and the organizations who manage them.

The research team developed multiple monthly distribution forecasts by observing the 9-month activity in past fishing regions from 2019 to 2021 to compare with future preferred habitats. Through analysis, the team was able to  yield percentages of how many fish were being caught in those preferred regions. In order to construct the most detailed model, both biological and physical factors were considered. The most influential measures found were sea surface temperature (SST)(38.6%), and Chl-a concentration (35.5%).

Utilizing public catch data from the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), as well as environmental forecasting data from a database known as CFSv2, the team produced reliable, real-time monthly forecast models for up to 9 months in advance, which can be an incredibly useful tool for fishermen and regional fishery managers to delve into when establishing harvest allocations to ensure the best outcome for people,

fish populations, and our planet.

To read more about this study, visit the original research in:

Wu, X. H., Chang, Y., Liao, T. Y., Ding, M. M., & Ke, C. C. (2023). Real-time multi-month forecasting of skipjack tuna ( Katsuwonus pelamis ) habitat in the western and central Pacific Ocean for improved fishing efficiency and fisheries management. ICES Journal of Marine Science, 80(10), 2490–2503. https://doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsad159

Available here: https://academic.oup.com/icesjms/article/80/10/2490/7310994?login=false

By: Keiyi Okamura and Sea Bass Chin 

Published: 3:54 PM EST, Sunday March 10, 2024 

Recently, Christopher D. Stallings and colleagues published a paper in Fisheries Research revealing newly tested post-release survival methods for commonly caught recreational fish in response to the barotrauma effects they face. 

Barotrauma has been a specific problem that has contributed to the total discard mortality percent of fish across the globe. The challenges of barotrauma are usually observed in recreational fisheries due to the fishing regulations imposed, such as: bag limits, sizing limits and harvesting seasons. These fishing regulations have led to increased rates of discarding fish, two significant examples of species observed in this activity are the red snapper and the red grouper. With this problem at hand, scientists have performed further research into discovering and testing barotrauma mitigation methods which could help decrease the mortality rates of discarded fish. 

Stallings et al. performed a mark-recapture experiment to assess the survival of red snapper and red grouper after catch and release. A mark-recapture experiment involves catching, tagging, and releasing fish so that the next time those fish are caught, data can be collected such as length, weight, health, and the most obvious reason if they’re still alive. Fishermen then caught tagged fish, and with a reward system, scientists could collect tagged fish return data. They tested two release methods, venting fish at the surface and recompressing fish to different depths without being vented. 

In their study, they found fish that were recompressed had higher tag return rates than those vented at the surface. Additionally, if fish were recompressed to deeper depths, they had higher return rates than those recompressed at lower depths. This was true for both the red snapper and the red grouper.

The scientists concluded that recompression methods proved more efficient with decreasing mortality rates of discarded fish compared to venting methods. The tag return rates of discarded fish that were placed through recompression methods were over double the amount of tag return rates of discarded fish that were vented. Red snapper and red grouper that were recompressed at depths of twenty meters or more proved to have a higher survival rate. Through all of these conclusions, it could be safe to say that recompression methods could potentially help fisheries by reducing the rates of mortality in targeted species.

In contrast, however, the authors also concluded that there has been a strong variation in the magnitude of mortality among different species of fish and fish across different regions. This variability of fish mortality rates could require further research and fisheries management on a case-by-case basis. In summary, they have an incomplete understanding of how to best improve the survival rates of discarded fish in general. Filling this research gap could possibly help with improving estimates of discard mortality and enforcing management or conservation policies with the responsibility of reducing discarded fish mortality. 

This news piece reports on original research in: 

Christopher D. Stallings, Oscar Ayala, Tiffanie A. Cross, Beverly Sauls. “Post-release survival of red snapper (Lutjanus campechanus) and red grouper (Epinephelus morio) using different barotrauma mitigation methods.” Fisheries Research, Volume 264 (2023): 106717. ISSN 0165-7836 Available: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fishres.2023.106717

How Turtles Got Hooked: A Tale of Pelagic Longline Fisheries

Published by Mikayla Smith, Jordan Cangro, Isabel Warren

A recent study led by a team of researchers from the Azores Fisheries Observer Program and the COSTA project analyzed incidental captures of loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles in the Northeast Atlantic from 2015 to 2020.  The Northeast Atlantic provides important foraging and developmental areas for young turtles. Hugo Parra, the team's lead researcher states “This region is one of the most heavily fished areas by pelagic longline (the technique of trailing a long multi-hooked line through the open sea), but no recent assessments of fisheries interactions exist” (Parra 2023) Incidental captures, also known as bycatch, pose a threat to sea turtle populations, disrupting their natural behaviors and often resulting in serious injuries or mortality. 

The group of six researchers monitored 72 fishing trips culminating more than 800 data sets. They found that 177 Sea Turtles were accidentally caught the majority being loggerheads.

They found that 81 percent of leatherbacks were hooked externally while 45 percent of Loggerheads ingested the hook. They also found that the bycatch rate was seasonally affected with the highest catch rate being in autumn. 

In response to these findings, the researchers suggest prompt measures to mitigate the impact of pelagic longline fisheries on sea turtles. Suggested measures include time-area closures, modifications to fishing gear, and enhanced handling and release practices. “Education on safe handling techniques increases sea turtle post-capture survival chances and alleviates the impacts of longline fishing on these populations” (Parra et al. 2023)

This study sheds light on the grim realities of longline fishing practices in the Northeast Atlantic, where crucial foraging and developmental areas for young turtles intersect with one of the most heavily fished regions. As Hugo Parra, the lead researcher points out, the lack of recent assessments of fisheries interactions in this area highlights the need for studies to understand and mitigate the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. In the face of these challenges, stakeholders, policymakers, and conservationists must work together to make change and ensure the long-term stability of our oceans. Only through those efforts can we work towards a future where marine ecosystems flourish.

To read further on this study, check out the original research at:

Parra, Hugo, et al. “Incidental capture of sea turtles in the northeast Atlantic Portuguese pelagic longline fishery.” Fisheries Research, vol. 263, July 2023, p. 106673, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fishres.2023.106673. 

In the shimmering waters of Melanesia, a study has unveiled the hidden currents of gender inequality within small-scale fisheries (SSF). 

In a recent study, Sangeeta Mangubhai and colleagues have published an article in ScienceDirect that sheds light on the challenges and opportunities facing this vital sector. Conducted across the paradisiacal islands of Fiji, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, the research aimed to assess the gender inclusive approaches adopted by projects, programs, and fisheries organizations, while uncovering the barriers hindering true equality.

The study engaged with 68 key informants, comprising both men and women from state and non-state organizations. Through in-depth interviews, researchers explored the specific approaches employed to include gender within SSF management and development initiatives. These approaches were categorized into four tiers: 'reach', 'benefit', 'empower', and 'transform', each aiming to address different facets of gender inequality.

The findings revealed a diverse landscape of gender inclusion efforts, ranging from community consultations to fostering working partnerships between men and women. While 16 different approaches were identified to 'reach' women, only one approach was found to actively challenge underlying gender norms, emphasizing the urgent need for transformative change within the sector.

Despite these efforts, the study highlighted persistent barriers that constrain the effectiveness of gender inclusion initiatives in SSF governance. From institutional constraints to entrenched cultural norms, the current strategies may fall short in addressing deep-rooted inequalities.

The significance of this research extends beyond the turquoise waters of Melanesia, resonating with global discussions on fisheries governance. As gender discussions in fishery management lag behind, this study serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating pathways towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

Indeed, the journey towards gender equality in SSF management and development demands more than token gestures. It requires a systematic overhaul of existing institutions and practices, transcending mere recruitment drives and checklist approaches.

In conclusion, the study underscores the urgent need for transformative change within the realm of fisheries governance. By embracing diversity and challenging entrenched norms, Melanesia's small-scale fisheries can pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable future.

This news reports on original research in:

Mangubhai, Sangeeta, and Sarah Lawless. “Exploring Gender Inclusion in Small-Scale Fisheries Management and Development in Melanesia.” Marine Policy 123 (2021): 104287-. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2020.104287.

Published by Sydney Dandridge & Kevin LaBar

Stakeholder input is a crucial step in creating proper fisheries management, and contributes to well formulated policy to address specific issues. Recently, Abdul Mudzakir and colleagues published a paper in AACL Bioflux addressing the strategies and stakeholders of the artisanal fishing management system in Tegal City, Indonesia. In 2021, Tegal City made up 17.53% of all Central Java, Indonesia’s total catch, making it the second largest capture fishery in Central Java.

Small scale, artisanal fishermen in Indonesia make up around 90% of the fishing industry there as well as 90% of the catch and employing millions around the country. They face a problem though, less fish and less profits. Not only are small scale fishermen important to the economic state, they also hold a deep traditional value that has gone on for generations. Most of the artisanal fishermen in Indonesia are living below the poverty line and fishing for subsistence rather than profit, and this is due to their simple fishing techniques and lack of advanced fishing technology. Similarly due to the increase in large scale fishermen, these small scale fishermen are losing their fishing grounds. With fish stocks at low numbers because of overfishing along with losing fishing grounds, rising fuel prices, and very low pay, there isn't much time left for the traditional artisanal fishermen in Indonesia. 

This paper used a sampling method where 100 participants represented various stakeholders. These stakeholders included fisherfolk, government officials, fisheries experts, and institutional representatives. Within the data collection, the authors were able to create four relevant sections of internal and external factors in the artisanal fisheries. These factors are seen as strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat. Analysis was done to score the individual internal and external factors to help determine the best strategy for developing management. With the author’s data analysis, they found that the artisanal fisheries management in Tegal City is in the ‘change strategy’ quadrant. This means that the strength value is less than the weakness value, and the opportunity value is greater than the threat value. 

The authors came to the conclusion that there are 4 good starting points to solving this problem. Raising awareness for sustainable fisheries in Indonesia would allow for people outside the fisheries sector to know and understand what is going on in the industry. Secondly, providing a clean and hygienic fish auction place would allow small-scale fishermen to have a clean spot to try and sell their catch. This goes along with the third possible solution starter: raise awareness about the benefits and importance of hygienic fish auction places. Lastly, developing policies related to fishing practices would help artisanal fishermen to not get outcompeted and outfished by larger boats with more expensive gear. Change is ultimately recommended to ensure a long lasting artisanal fishing industry in Tegal City, Indonesia; without it, this practice could entirely disappear.

This news piece reports on original research in:

Mudzakir, A. K., K., Boesono, H., Suherman, A., & Department of Capture Fisheries, Faculty of Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, Diponegoro University, Semarang, Central Java, Indonesia. (2024). Strategies and stakeholders of the artisanal fisheries management in Tegal City, Indonesia. In AACL Bioflux (Vol. 17, Issue 1, pp. 180–181) [Journal-article]. 

Available: http://www.bioflux.com.ro/docs/2024.180-194.pdf

Published by: Hannah Towers and June Pottinger

In November 2023, Alejo J. Irogyen and his colleagues published a paper in Fisheries Management and Ecology relating to a new method of stock assessments in Chile’s fisheries. In 2020, the landings of Chile's commercial fishery totaled to about 2.1 million pounds of fish, making it the tenth largest commercial fishery on Earth. Historically, this fishery, in particular coastal rocky species, has been an “open access regime” in which there are no limits imposed on the catches of fishermen, only limiting gear and methods employed. Continuing with this lack of restriction, there is a lack of data collection as it is often purely limited to landing numbers. Unfortunately, present data implies that some of Chile’s commercial and recreational rocky fishes are being overfished, necessitating action on the part of managers to protect the fishery. Currently, managers lack a strong grasp on the sustainable yield of species and the rough conditions of Chile’s coast make data collection an ordeal. Baited Remote Underwater Vehicles or BRUVs for short have slowly emerged as a new method of fishery management over the past decade, utilizing small remotely operated cameras with attached bait to observe fish directly in their natural habitats. This method is cost effective and is more resilient to the swells and strong winds along Chile’s coast than any previous method including acoustic data, longline data, or trapping data and has even proven successful in countries such as Argentina. For the study, 23 individual BRUVs were deployed between Summer and Fall at multiple points along the Chilean coastline where they encountered seven out of nine of the most economically important coastal rocky species. As the observations made by the BRUVs were able to be utilized to understand the abundance of significant species for fishery managers, the study has been considered a success. Beyond simply encountering and observing multiple important commercial species in the deployed area, the units observed never before seen behaviors in targeted species. The discoveries made during Chile’s experimental use of BRUVs went against and expanded upon previous beliefs about the behavior of certain species. Additionally, the seasonal pattern along which the BRUVs were used allowed for a renewed understanding of how the behavior of observed species varies throughout different parts of the year. These developments imply the potential of BRUVs beyond fisheries research. They could represent a broader advancement for marine research as a proven, cost effective method of observing species in their natural habitats. Chile, as it continues to use BRUVs will only gain a better understanding of its coastal fisheries, ensuring their stability and success. Not only will we gain the data necessary to avoid overfishing and ensure the sustainability of some of the world’s most economically important fisheries, but we will have an opportunity to make new discoveries along the world’s coastlines.

Published by: Christin Toth

Liming Song and Huihui Shen published a extensive article on the management of fish aggregating devices used in the tuna purse seine fisheries. This practice has improved the tuna industry greatly and has spread throughout the world. Due to this there are varying rules and regulations on these devices which has caused a collective document on possible best practices to be published.

Since the late 1970’s Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) have been used to attract large schools of fish in one place. FADs make it easier for fishermen to spot and catch their target fish. Pacific Island countries and territories pioneered the practice, in the 1990’s FADs began being built internationally with remote positioning buoys. FADs can be free floating or anchored, free floating is more popular for industrial scale purse seine tuna fisheries. The common form of FAD is a bamboo raft covered with a net, and a tail that hangs in the water made of old fishing net or rope with small rope or palm leaves coming off the main tail.

Tuna regional fisheries management organizations (t-RFMOs) have practices and measures to moderate the use of FADs. However, the overfishing of tuna stocks and the marine litter that un-retrieved units cause is a large problem. The organizations have varying definitions and regulations for similar things. Three of the four t-RFMOs have periods of closure to encourage the repopulation of tuna in the area. All four organizations encourage or recommend the report of lost FADs, no serious consequences are listed for the failure to do so. There are more discrepancies between the organizations, but these are the largest.

There are many recommendations for improving the management of FADs. Improving designs, data reporting process and bycatch mitigation are important but the ecological impacts the structures have are still important. A integrated dFAD (drifting fishing aggregating devices) management scheme would standardize definitions, mandatory dFAD marking, limits on dFAD deployment and possession on vessels, data reporting requirements, regional tracking and monitoring programs and joint dFAD recovery programs. Through all of the improvements that could be made with the integrated management the ecological impact dFADs have on marine ecosystems can be lessened. Magnitude, extend, integrity, and duration all are addressed in the plan and directly influence the ecosystems health. There has been great effort made to shine light on these problems and continue management improvements. The cooperation of stakeholders in t-RFMOs, coastal states, the fishing industry, NGO’s and scientists are needed to continue research and the future improvement to these important fishing devices.

This news piece reports on original research in:

Liming Song and Huihui Shen. “An Integrated Scheme for the Management of Drifting Fish Aggregating Devices in Tuna Purse Seine Fisheries.” Fisheries Management Ecology 30:56-69 (2023). Available: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/fme.12600

Published by: Seisho Song

Shark finning has been attracting a lot of attention worldwide. This involves a lot of emotion-based perspectives, such as animal ethics. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certifies marine resources for those that complete qualifications of having minimum impacts on the environment through the aquatic resource industries. Shark finning is banned in MSC evaluation, but Adrian Guttridge and colleagues’ concern is that we do not have a lot of information about how other management councils have managed issues with shark fin industries and if the definition of MSC was contributing to the shark conservation actions by just banning finning. They investigated how the regulations have been changing and managed by different council organizations and so the effect of the current regulation definitions. 

By looking into public and stakeholder consultations, political rules by various countries, and perspectives on shark finning and subject animals, the authors summarized the shark finning management by different countries and the councils’ specific regulations on shark finning issues. The result turns out to be varied by so many other councils and governments. Australia was the only country that defined all sharks and rays as the subject of the finning ban. The rest of the countries, such as the USA and New Zealand, included all the Selachimorphas, the subclass for true sharks, but never included Rhinopristiformes, which provides for rays like guitarfish and sawfish. These taxas of batoids are also often targeted for fins, and some of them, such as sawfish, are highly endangered. The shark finning subject definition was not assessed for those batoids, which look similar to true sharks. There was a proposal for fins-naturally attached (FNA) for MSC, which suggests shark fin harvest by bringing the whole carcass to land without removing the fins. However, in 2021’s 52 stakeholder consultations, most of them strongly disagreed that FNA would have a good effect on this. And in 2022, this result never made a real change.

Nevertheless, among 43 fishery entities, 20 completely banned shark fin trades, and 18 of the banning entities accepted the FNA measurements. Same thing happened for 9 of the 15 regional fisheries management organisations (RFMO) for finning ban, 5 of them adopting FNA. Based on these global views and public eyes, shark finning is considered as “minimum acceptable,” and FNA measurement is becoming essential for at least making shark fin harvesting acceptable level. The concern toward the resource definition of “sharks” usually applied only to “true sharks” and did not include some rays, which include guitarfish and sawfish. Therefore, it is recommended that the definition of the resource be reviewed and reconsidered. Nevertheless, banning shark finning is not considered adequate for shark population management since it only bans dumping out the finned carcass. It never assessed the accuracy of the amount of catch, quota limit, selection of safe species, etc. Therefore, the authors suggested that revised requirements for the shark catch regulation would have a powerful effect and result in evident consequences. 

Works Cited

Gutteridge, A. N., Bräutigam, A., Dewar, K., & Currey, R. J. C. (2024). How are appropriate performance levels developed for MSC Certification? A case study assessing shark finning. Marine Policy, 163, 106119. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2024.106119