Fishery Resources Detection and Assessment
Use Case Description
This use case enables improved understanding and management of fishery resources by integrating EO-derived environmental indicators with biological and operational data. Fisheries are heavily influenced by oceanographic conditions such as sea surface temperature, chlorophyll levels, salinity, and current systems. These factors determine the distribution, abundance, and migratory patterns of key commercial and subsistence species.
Using EO-based data, areas with suitable environmental conditions for specific species can be identified. These zones, referred to as potential fishing zones, can be mapped using parameters like temperature fronts, productivity hotspots, and ocean colour anomalies. Daily and seasonal monitoring allows fishers and fisheries managers to adjust efforts to maximise efficiency while minimising environmental impact and bycatch.
The use case also supports long-term fish stock assessment by correlating environmental variability with catch data. It helps determine whether changes in fishery productivity are due to overfishing or natural ecosystem shifts. In some cases, EO data can aid in detecting illegal fishing by monitoring vessel activity and comparing it with environmental patterns.
Ultimately, this use case supports more sustainable, data-driven fisheries management, helping to ensure food security, preserve biodiversity, and sustain the livelihoods of coastal communities that depend on marine resources.
