WP1 - Ecosystem approach to the evaluation and use of fisheries resources

WP1 - Tools for the implementation of the ecosystem approach to sustainable fisheries and aquaculture was mainly aimed at developing tools (technologies, devices, methodologies) to support the eco-systemic approach to fisheries management and aquaculture.

Activities on Innovative systems to support the analysis and monitoring of fish stocks upgraded the Fisheries Oceanography Observing System (FOOS) through the installation of a data logger on fishing nets and a "wave radar” on board a fishing vessel, and the development and testing of innovative techniques for the monitoring post larvae communities (light traps), the fish fauna in Marine Protected Areas (BUVS - Baited Underwater Video Systems) and Chamelea gallina (striped venus clam) biocoenosis through multibeamechosounder (MBES).

Activities on Trophic webs produced the collection and revision of an impressive amount of data dealing with number, biomass and bioenergetics variables of planktonic, pelagic and demersal organisms as well as fishery activities. Data have been already elaborated and stored in an archive that will constitute the base for the implementation of a trophodynamic model for the Straits of Sicily. Furthermore new data have been collected related to the impact of trawling on the trophic food web, the pelagic food web, the isotopic fractionation and the microbial component of the food web.

Concerning Strengthening of scientific surveys to acquire independent information on fisheries resources, DEPM (Daily Egg Production Method) was applied to estimate biomass of anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) in South Adriatic and the Straits of Sicily in 2013 and 2014. Moreover echo- surveys allowed estimating biomass of anchovy and sardine (Sardina pilchardus) in the North and Middle Adriatic Sea in 2013 and 2014, with sampling and analysis of mesozooplankton were carried out.

Finally survey I-UWTV (UnderWaterTV) in the central Adriatic produced estimates of density of Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus) nests, using technologically advanced instrumentation. Significant contribution to the knowledge of the population structure, at small and medium scale, of the demersal and pelagic species, was obtained within Identification of the stock boundaries of the main commercial species in the survey areas. These results are useful to plan effective management of fishery resources in the Italian seas.

Main activities carried out to support the analysis and monitoring of fish stocks by innovative systems