Filiera
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Promoted by COISPA Foundation and funded by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forests (MASAF) under the supply chain agreement “Grandi Pelagici in Filiera OPPAP”, The project PAST aims to enhance biological, ecological, and management knowledge of two highly migratory pelagic species of major economic and environmental importance in the Mediterranean: swordfish (Xiphias gladius) and albacore tuna (Thunnus alalunga).
The project “Action Plan for the improvement of swordfish and albacore tuna fishing according to the MSC sustainable fishing standard” (acronym P.A.S.T.), In accordance with ICCAT Recommendations 16-05 and 21-06, which call for the strengthening of scientific data to support the sustainable management of overexploited stocks, the 24-month research project involves the collection of biological samples (anal fin rays and gonads) for age, size, and maturity assessments, and the use of pop-up satellite telemetry tags to investigate vertical and horizontal migrations, post-release survival, and habitat use.
Tagging operations will be carried out in collaboration with fishing fleets from Acireale, Riposto, Pozzallo, Giardini Naxos, Messina, Reggio Calabria, and the Aeolian Islands, using selected vessels. Data transmitted from satellite sensors and collected from fishing logbooks will be analyzed to validate key biological parameters, estimate post-release mortality, and assess the impacts of traditional and mesopelagic longline fisheries.
Expected outcomes include seasonal maps of migratory routes, reproductive and preferred habitats, the validation of biological parameters, and the development of a final report containing management recommendations for sustainable fisheries.
Furthermore, the project seeks to promote environmentally responsible fishing practices, engaging fishermen and coastal communities to strengthen participatory governance and environmental awareness within the Mediterranean large pelagic fisheries sector.