Álvaro Fernández García: Marine researcher and IEO biologist passes away

The Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO) has honored the life and career of marine biologist Álvaro Fernández García, who passed away on September 16, 2026.

Born in Vigo in 1945, Fernández García dedicated over forty years to marine research, primarily with the IEO. After studying biology at the Complutense University of Madrid, he joined the IEO's A Coruña Oceanographic Center in 1974. His work focused on studying Spanish fisheries in the Northwest Atlantic, including pelagic species like sardines and anchovies, as well as demersal species such as hake and monkfish.

His research provided essential data for evaluating fish populations and served as a foundation for Spanish fisheries management both nationally and internationally. His expertise also supported bilateral relations with other countries and played a role during Spain's accession to the European Union in 1986.