In Marine Beacon, each work package contributes to reducing bycatch, the accidental capture of sensitive marine species in European fisheries. Work Package 4 (WP4) focuses on understanding when and where these interactions happen and how they affect the survival of vulnerable species.
The team brings together ecological knowledge, fishing data, and risk assessment tools to identify the conditions that increase the likelihood of bycatch. This also helps highlight areas where targeted solutions can have the greatest impact.
Why Risk Matters
Not all species face the same level of risk. Some are more likely to be caught, while others are less likely to survive when they are. For species with slow growth or low reproductive rates, even small losses can have a serious impact on their populations.
WP4 helps explain these differences. By examining how protected species interact with fishing activity, the team provides insights that support more focused and effective conservation strategies.
Case Studies from Across the Atlantic
WP4 applies this approach across a wide range of marine environments. These include coastal waters, offshore areas, and parts of the high seas. The species and fisheries involved vary from place to place, offering a diverse testing ground for the project’s methods. This broad scope ensures that the tools developed are flexible and relevant to real-world fisheries management.
Tools and Insights to Support Smarter Action
WP4 builds on species distribution maps developed in Work Package 3. These maps show where animals are likely to be found at different times of year. The team compares this information with fishing activity to create risk maps that highlight potential hotspots for bycatch. In addition, the team uses decision-support tools such as ByRA, EASI-Fish, and PSA to assess the vulnerability of different species. These tools help evaluate where and when mitigation efforts can be most effective.
WP4 places a strong emphasis on collaboration. The team works closely with fishers and industry partners to review risk maps and vulnerability assessments. Workshops and other engagement activities provide opportunities to test ideas, gather practical insights, and ensure that results are grounded in real-world experience. This collaborative approach helps align scientific analysis with operational realities.
Why This Matters
Many species affected by bycatch are already under pressure from other threats. WP4 helps identify where conservation efforts can be most impactful, whether through seasonal closures, gear modifications, or improved monitoring.
By supporting more precise and evidence-based decisions, WP4 plays a vital role in Marine Beacon’s wider mission to protect marine biodiversity and promote sustainable fisheries.