Spain launches 26th Porcupine scientific survey off Ireland

Spain has launched the 26th Porcupine scientific survey off the west coast of Ireland to assess the health of commercially significant marine species. Conducted by the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food alongside the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO), the campaign is taking place aboard the research vessel Vizconde de Eza and is scheduled to continue until October 14.

The survey focuses on species vital to the Spanish fishing fleet, including hake, monkfish, megrim, and Norway lobster. A team of 15 scientists is working to collect independent data on abundance, spatial distribution, size structure, recruitment, and reproduction of demersal and benthic species.

This research is intended to provide essential data for fisheries management and the Common Fisheries Policy. By establishing reliable time series, the findings will help guide decisions regarding fishing quotas, effort, and conservation measures to ensure the sustainability of ecosystems in the Porcupine Bank area.