BIG. Implications of mass maturity size on the genetic structures and reproductive and growth characteristics of fish species of fishing interest.

Pleamar program

The project focuses on strengthening the sustainable management of fisheries on a global scale by identifying regions of the genome that regulate key processes such as growth and reproduction in exploited species. Understanding the genetic basis of these traits allows us to generate solid evidence for the design of fisheries regulations based on scientific criteria, in order to safeguard the reproductive potential and genetic diversity of the populations. In this way, it seeks to prevent the so-called induced fishing evolution (genetic overfishing) and mitigate its adverse effects on population dynamics and the balance of marine ecosystems.

Likewise, the joint influence of the natural and artificial selection processes derived from exploitation will be evaluated, in order to estimate the adaptive capacity and genetic resilience of the populations in the face of different management scenarios. In parallel, the impact of applying minimum catch sizes based on L95 compared to L50 will be analysed, assessing its implications for the conservation of species and the sustainability of fishing activity.

Finally, based on the integration of the genomic, biological and fisheries information obtained, management strategies will be formulated aimed at the responsible and sustainable use of the exploited resources, aligning the conservation of biodiversity with the socio-economic viability of the sector.

Project

Line of action:

Marine ecosystems

Status:

En ejecución

Location

Canary Islands

Research line

Axis 4. Marine Resources and Governance Research

Execution date:

2026

End date:

2028

Project web page:

https://www.programapleamar.es/proyectos/grandes-implicaciones-de-la-talla-de-madurez-masiva-en-las-estructuras-geneticas-y

Objectives

The GRANDES project seeks to determine which regions of the genome regulate growth and reproduction in five species of sparids of fishing interest in the Canary Islands. In order to support sustainable management strategies in addition to those based on genetic evidence, it is proposed to analyze the reproductive (L50, L95) and growth parameters, comparing current and historical data. The impact of fishing exploitation and environmental changes on these species will be evaluated and the effects of applying minimum reproductive size criteria (L95 vs. L50) on the conservation and yield of resources will also be studied.

Specific objectives:

OE1. Determine regions or fragments of the genome associated with the control of growth and reproduction in the selected species.
OE2. Describe the current status of key biological parameters of the selected species to identify changes in life patterns through comparisons with their own historical data.
OE3. To assess the influence of natural and artificial selection systems to determine the adaptive capacity and genetic resilience of stocks to fisheries.
OE4. Identify the impact of applying L95 versus L50 on species conservation and fisheries.
OE5. Propose strategies for the sustainable management of the exploited fishery resources of the selected species.
OE6. Design a communication and dissemination plan for the project’s challenges.

BIG. Implications of mass maturity size on the genetic structures and reproductive and growth characteristics of fish species of fishing interest.

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