SPELMED study – promoting sustainability of small pelagic fish in the Mediterranean

A new EMFF study on the assessment of the population status of the European sardine and the European anchovy in the Northwestern Mediterranean Sea was recently published. The study perfectly aligns with the EU Green Deal as it supports and promotes sustainability and healthy target stocks. 

The main objective of the SPELMED study was to evaluate the population status of two specific small pelagic fishes (SPF) stocks, the sardine and anchovy, in the Northwest Mediterranean Sea. It also wanted to generate enough key biological and ecological information to support robust management options in the area.

One of the study’s key findings was the recent SPF population decline, which can cause negative consequences for the bulk of commercial catches and economic profit. The SPELMED scientists revised key biological, genetic and ecological information and presented recommendations to improve fisheries management measures. 

The study ultimately aimed at supporting stronger management alternatives in the area. It fully involved fishers and stakeholders through a series of interviews and analysed their perception of the fisheries management measures. 

The study successfully connected all blue economy actors and supported the transition to sustainable fishing, respecting our seas for the generations to come.  

Full study in EU Bookshop.