Sustainable fishing has become a crucial issue in the current environmental context. One of the fish species that requires particular attention is the Cantabrian anchovy, a precious blue fish present in the waters of the Cantabrian Sea, off the northern coast of Spain.
This article will briefly explore the practices and measures taken to ensure the sustainable fishing of Cantabrian anchovies, in order to preserve this valuable marine resource for future generations and to allow you, dear readers, to make informed choices.
LIFE CYCLE
To practice sustainable fishing, it is essential to understand the life cycle of the Cantabrian anchovy that makes long migrations to reproduce and feeds mainly on plankton. Knowledge of these biological aspects helps establish rules and practices that protect juveniles and preserve breeding areas.
REGULATION OF FISHERIES
A particularly crucial aspect is the regulation of fisheries: the responsible authorities have implemented strict measures to regulate the fishing of Cantabrian anchovies and annual fishing quotas have been fixed, establishing and limiting the maximum number of tonnes of anchovies that can be caught each year. These quotas are based on scientific studies evaluating the reproductive capacity of the species and its population.
CONTROL THE SIZE
An important note concerns measures to control the size of anchovies: in order to ensure sustainable fishing, legislation has been introduced limiting the catch of Cantabrian anchovies according to the size of the specimens. Only individuals reaching a specific minimum length can be fished, allowing anchovies to reach reproductive maturity before being caught.
FISHING GEAR
Preventive measures are also taken on the use of fishing gear for anchovies from the Cantabrian Sea, and fishermen from the Cantabrian Sea use selective gear and techniques that minimise the negative effects on all marine life. Fishing is mainly carried out with nets of adequate size and carefully controlled trawls to reduce bycatch of other non-target species and to allow the escape of younger fish.
MONITORING AND RESEARCH
In order to ensure compliance with the regulations and the effective sustainability of anchovy fishing in the Cantabrian region, monitoring and scientific research programmes are in place. Researchers analyse data on catches, specimen sizes and migrations, and regular sampling to identify any fluctuations or declines in the anchovy population and to propose any changes to the regulations.
Of course, sustainable anchovy fishing in the Cantabrian region actively involves institutions, local communities, fishermen’s associations and operators in the sub-region such as Conservas La Rosita. The authorities work with fishermen to promote awareness and adoption of sustainable practices, as well as encourage the traceability of fish products.
Sustainable anchovy fishing in the Cantabrian region is a positive example of responsible management of marine resources.
It is essential to continue to promote scientific research and the adoption of sustainable practices in order to ensure the conservation of Cantabrian anchovies and to protect the marine ecosystem as a whole.
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