A study led by the Center for Marine Sciences () of the University of Algarve, over 46 years, concluded that a significant part of cetacean strandings in the region are associated with fishing activity.
The investigation analyzed more than a thousand occurrences recorded during this period, revealing that, in cases where it was possible to determine the cause of death, 45% of the animals showed “signs of interaction with fishing”.
According to CCMAR, the data collected “helps to better understand the phenomenon” in the Algarve, contributing to a scientific basis that can support the sustainable management of fishing and the protection of marine ecosystems.
The study also identified areas with a higher incidence of strandings, namely Cabo de Santa Maria, the area between Portimão and Lagos and the Sagres region, in addition to highlighting the significant presence of juveniles among the animals found.
Monitoring network reinforces knowledge
According to the researchers, for decades the records were made in an “irregular manner”, saying that the continuous work of the Rede de Arrojamentos do Algarve (RAAlg) made it possible to construct the “first consistent diagnosis of cetacean mortality in the region”.
Coordinated by CCMAR and integrated into the national air raid network, RAAlg ensures a permanent response along the entire coast, with permanent teams supported by the local community, allowing the collection of biological data and the performance of necropsies.
“Since the network was operational, the ability to identify species and determine causes of death has increased substantially and the number of records has doubled, revealing a previously underestimated reality”, says Jan Hofman, first author of the study, cited in the note.
Species identified and patterns recorded
The study identified 19 species of cetaceans that reached the coast, with the common dolphin being the most common and the minke whale being the most common among whales.
The boldnesses show defined patterns in time and space, reflecting the distribution of the most abundant species in the region.
For Ana Marçalo, CCMAR researcher and coordinator of the study, also mentioned in the note, the results “do not point to culprits, but rather paths”.
According to the researcher, the knowledge now generated makes it possible to design “more effective mitigation measures and reduce accidental catches without compromising fishing activity”.
“By understanding the seasonality of species, the most sensitive areas and the structure of populations, we were able to identify critical areas and reduce accidental captures without compromising fishing activity, a vital sector for the economy and identity of the Algarve”, concludes the researcher.
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