ILUMINA is an innovative project that seeks to reduce the bycatch of sharks and rays in artisanal fishing in the Canary Islands, through the use of LED lights in traditional gear such as cazonal. Through scientific tests in real conditions, the effect of different colours (green, blue, white, etc.) on vulnerable species will be evaluated, improving selectivity without compromising commercial catches.

The project combines science, fisheries and marine conservation with a practical, transferable and participatory approach. It includes a gender perspective, training for the sector and dissemination actions. ILUMINA provides sustainable and knowledge-based solutions to make artisanal fishing compatible with the protection of the marine environment.

Specific objectives:

OE1. To characterise the accidental catches of elasmobranchs in dogfish fishing in different parts of the Canary Islands.
OE2. Design and execute experimental trials of fishing with gillnets with different light configurations (green, blue, white, and without light).
OE3. To evaluate the effect of visual stimuli on the selectivity of fishing gear towards different species through scientific and statistical analyses.
OE4. Assess the economic impact of the modification of the gear in relation to the catches of target species and fishing operations.
OE5. Encourage the participation of the fishing sector in the implementation of sustainable and scientifically validated solutions.
OE6. Disseminate the results and good practices through awareness-raising, communication and transfer actions to other territories.
OE7. Integrate the gender perspective in all phases of the project, promoting the participation of women in fishing, scientific and informative activity.