CORALART. Study and mitigation of the impact of artisanal fishing on mesophotic coral ecosystems in the Canary Islands.
Pleamar program
CORALART will evaluate and mitigate the impact of artisanal fishing on mesophotic coral ecosystems in El Hierro, Tenerife and Lanzarote. These communities, dominated by vulnerable species such as Savalia savaglia, Dendrophyllia ramea and Paramuricea gorgonians, are key but threatened habitats located in marine reserves and SACs.
The project combines in situ monitoring, damage recording and rescue of trapped corals for laboratory study, analysing climate regeneration and resilience. In addition, it promotes sustainable fishing practices through rescue protocols, workshops and dissemination.
CORALART will support EU biodiversity strategies and environmental directives, offering a replicable model of collaboration between science and fisheries. The initiative promotes conservation, participatory governance and gender equality.
The following entities act as collaborating entities: Fishermen’s Guild of La Graciosa, Fishermen’s Guild San Roque and Isla Baja, Fishermen’s Guild of La Restinga, General Directorate of Fisheries of the Government of the Canary Islands, General Directorate of Natural Spaces and Biodiversity of the Government of the Canary Islands.
Line of action:
Marine ecosystemsStatus:
En ejecuciónLocation
Canary IslandsResearch line
Axis 2. Protection of the Marine EnvironmentExecution date:
2026End date:
2028Project web page:
https://www.programapleamar.es/proyectos/coralart-estudio-y-mitigacion-del-impacto-de-la-pesca-artesanal-sobre-los-ecosistemas-deThe general objective of the CORALART project is to scientifically assess the impact of artisanal fishing on mesophotic coral ecosystems (50-100 m deep) in marine reserves and Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) of the Canary archipelago and to implement mitigation strategies based on ecological knowledge and the active participation of the fishing sector.
Through a methodology that combines in situ monitoring, recovery of specimens, laboratory study and training of fishermen, the project seeks to reduce the direct impact on these habitats, while strengthening the co-responsibility of the fishing sector in their conservation, promoting more sustainable practices adapted to the local context.
Specific objectives:
OE1. To diagnose the impact of artisanal fishing on mesophotic coral communities.
OE2. Quantify the bycatch of mesophotic corals in traditional fishing gear, in collaboration with artisanal fishers.
OE3. Develop and validate a protocol for the rescue, acclimatization and laboratory maintenance of bycatched corals.
OE4. Investigate key aspects of the biology of affected species, with special attention to their reproduction, larval development and response to climate change.
OE5. Train and raise awareness among the fishing sector through workshops on good practices, responsible coral management, and reducing impacts on vulnerable habitats, if any.
OE6. Promote the co-responsibility of the sector in the conservation of mesophotic ecosystems, strengthening participatory governance and the science-management link.
CORALART. Study and mitigation of the impact of artisanal fishing on mesophotic coral ecosystems in the Canary Islands.
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