CETAPES is a project aimed at improving the knowledge and management of cetacean bycatch in the fisheries of northern Spain. This problem is one of the main threats to several species of dolphins and small cetaceans, and is directly related to the objectives of the Habitats Directive, the Marine Strategy and the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).

The initiative combines data collection in collaboration with the fishing sector, the analysis of information from strandings and accidental captures and the use of innovative tools that allow us to understand more precisely when, where and why interactions between cetaceans and fishing gear occur. To this end, CETAPES will integrate information from both stranded animals and accidentally caught specimens, using direct techniques (observation, necropsies, questionnaires) and indirect techniques (biological analysis, fishing records and environmental data). This information will make it possible to identify which population groups (by age, sex or health status) are most susceptible to accidental capture.

One of the key elements of the project is the implementation of a system of identification bridles, which will improve the traceability of cetaceans recovered from the coast after being captured at sea. In addition, drift models based on oceanographic and meteorological data will be applied to reconstruct the trajectory of the animals and locate risk areas, thus contributing to improving the real estimate of bycatch mortality.

All information collected will be integrated into a common database, designed to facilitate the assessment of anthropogenic mortality and support management decision-making. The project will also generate synergies with other projects such as MERMACIFRA and CetAMBICion, ensuring methodological coherence and the transfer of knowledge between teams and administrations.

Overall, the CETAPES project seeks to substantially improve the quality of available data on bycatch, move towards an effective reduction in cetacean mortality associated with fishing activities and strengthen collaboration between the fishing sector, the scientific community and public administrations, thus contributing to a more sustainable management of the marine environment.