Marine Recreational Fisheries (MRF) is a widespread leisure activity with significant ecological and economic implications in coastal regions worldwide. Obtaining accurate estimates of its size is hindered by the dispersed spatial and temporal scales at which recreational fishers operate. Conventional survey-based methods require significant time and financial resources, limiting their application. We provide a new approach for estimating the size of MRF, using a Generalized Additive Model (GAM) hurdle specification, which offers advantages over traditional methods, allowing both estimation in unsampled areas and a more refined spatial resolution. Leveraging a dataset comprising over 16,000 observations from a telephone survey representative of Italy, we find that in our application the GAM provides a better fit than parametric alternatives. Our analysis estimates that 1.5 million individuals engage in MRF in Italy, constituting approximately 2.6 % of the national population, generating 34 million annual fishing trips. Simulation results suggest that our proposed approach remains informative even with smaller sample sizes. We show that a model-based approach could alleviate constraints in MRF estimation, particularly where financial resources are limited. This represents a step forward for incorporating MRF into policies aimed at supporting the health of marine ecosystems.

In Italy, marine recreational fishing is a remarkably popular activity with a long tradition, but it is only recently that scientific research interest in this field has gained momentum. To date, research on marine recreational fishing in Italy have explored different dimensions. Such as monitoring spearfishing tournaments, assessing potential impacts on benthic organisms, comparing it with artisanal fishing practices, examining its occurrence within marine protected areas, and investigating its social, economic, and ecological implications. Marine recreational fishing can have significant impact on ecological, social, and economic spheres. Thus, there is a need for an integrated approach that considers an ecosystem perspective in resource management and monitoring. The goal of this paper is to consolidate research findings related to marine recreational fishing in Italy, identifying knowledge gaps and potential areas for future research. To achieve this, we conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed papers on the topic, categorizing each paper into five sections: (i) spearfishing tournaments; (ii) effects of recreational fishing on benthic organisms; (iii) recreational and artisanal fisheries; (iv) recreational fishing and marine protected areas; (v) social and ecological aspects of marine recreational fishing. Subsequently, we synthetized the key findings of each paper and drew overall conclusions for each section. The landscape of marine recreational fishing is continuously evolving worldwide, and we aim for this review to elucidate the progress made thus far in Italy, provide new research perspectives, and encourage further research, monitoring efforts, and to strength collaboration with national and international stakeholders.

We addressed the impact of angling in two Mediterranean inshore sites by conducting a tag-recapture study on caught-and-released black scorpionfish (Scorpaena porcus) and giant goby (Gobius cobitis). We assessed the relationship between the fish vitality at release and the main factors affecting it, i.e. air exposure time, water temperature, fish length and handling. Then, we used conventional fish tags to study fish survivability to catch and release, growth rates, behaviour and site fidelity. Overall, 17 species (mainly gobids and sparids) were caught, with differences in species composition and abundance between the two sites, probably related to their different depth range. A total of 136 individuals of S. porcus and 38 of G. cobitis were caught, tagged and released. S. porcus had a better vitality than G. cobitis once released, which was negatively associated with an increase in air exposure time, although not significant. We recorded 34 recapture events, with a resulting recapture rate of 19.9% for S. porcus (without considering multiple recaptures) and 5.3% for G. cobitis. The length-weight relationship revealed an isometric growth in both species. The von Bertalanffy growth parameters (± standard error) estimated for S. porcus were L∞ = 26 cm ± 5.25 and k = 0.21 ± 0.09, with no significant differences detected in growth rate between immature and mature individuals. The species’ high site fidelity and resilience to catch-and-release indicate its potential susceptibility to repeated angling in confined coastal habitats. These results highlight the need to account for the cumulative ecological impacts of recreational fisheries in the management of coastal fish populations.

New records of rarely reported species in the Mediterranean Sea (December 2025)

The increasing global demand for seafood has intensified pressure on marine resources and hence the need to adopt sustainable fishing practices and promote sustainable products. Raising consumer awareness about the variability in ecological sustainability of seafood is an important tool to facilitate prevention of marine resource overexploitation, minimise the impact of fishing on ecosystems, and ensure long-term renewal of aquatic resources. Here we propose a simple but comprehensive and generic assessment framework with three indicators that inform on the impact of fishing practices on seabed habitats, fish stock status, and bycatch risk of sensitive species for any given product, whether domestically caught or imported, based on publicly available information. A rating scale from 1 to 5 is used for clarity and effectiveness in communicating the respective risks. The indicators provide a user-friendly tool for consumers, policymakers, and industry professionals to make informed decisions about seafood sustainability. Our results show contrasted ecological risks among the main fishing methods, which is crucial for value chain actors for making informed choices that support sustainable fishing practices. Our method enables scientifically proven practices for mitigating by-catches of sensitive species to be accounted for. A clear, transparent, fair and adaptable scoring system can enhance societal awareness and steer the market towards more sustainable seafood products.

The European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) is a commercially and recreationally important fish widely, distributed across the Northeast Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Two distinct lineages that represent the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions have been previously identified, with a hybrid zone close to the Almeria–Oran front. The presence of fine-scale population structure within the Northeast Atlantic region is less clear. Here, we investigated population structure in adult samples obtained from the northern part of the Atlantic range surrounding the UK, Ireland, Belgium, Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Norway, along with outgroups from Portugal and the Mediterranean, using a panel of 41 K single nucleotide polymorphism markers. Population structure among Northeast Atlantic Ocean samples was weak in both spawning—(FST = 0.00022) and feeding—(FST = 0.00032) season data sets, with small pairwise FST values between sample pairs. However, average FST was larger between spawning samples than between feeding samples, with a pattern of isolation-by-distance among the spawning samples, but not the feeding samples, suggesting some biologically meaningful population structure. The largest pairwise FST values at both International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) rectangle and division scales involved a sample from the west of Ireland. We found no evidence of a gradient in “Mediterranean” ancestry among samples collected around the UK in our data set or in a reanalysis of a published data set where such a pattern had been previously identified. In summary, there was no evidence that sea bass in different ICES divisions within the Northeast Atlantic Ocean represents genetically separate populations. Further work is required to reconcile evidence from tagging and modelling studies that suggest the potential for demographic independence with the genetic data.

Crustacean fisheries are gaining prominence globally amid a decline in finfish stocks. Some decapod crustacean species have experienced increased landings in response to shifting market demands and environmental dynamics. Notably, the caramote prawn (Penaeus kerathurus—Forskål, 1775) in the northern Adriatic Sea, Geographical Sub Area (GSA) 17, has risen in both landings and economic importance in recent years. However, despite its significance, comprehensive information on fishery-dependent data, age, and growth in this region remains lacking. To address this gap, this study employs modal progression analysis and the ELEFAN approach, utilizing the “TropFishR” R package and newly developed functions, including bootstrapping procedures. These advancements aim to overcome issues identified in previous versions and enhance the accuracy and reliability of age and growth estimations. The study leverages one year of monthly length-frequency distributions (LFDs) collected from commercial bottom trawls in the northern Adriatic Sea. The results of the analysis confirm the presence of sexual dimorphism in the caramote prawn species, with females exhibiting faster growth rates compared to males. Additionally, the growth performance index supports this observation, further underscoring the importance of accounting for sexual dimorphism in growth modeling and fisheries management strategies. By contributing to a growing body of knowledge on the growth dynamics of the caramote prawn, this study provides valuable insights for sustainable fisheries management in the northern Adriatic Sea. Understanding the age and growth patterns of key crustacean species is essential for developing effective conservation measures and ensuring the long-term health and productivity of marine ecosystems. The findings of this study serve as a foundation for informed decision-making and proactive management practices aimed at preserving the ecological integrity and economic viability of crustacean fisheries in the region.

Marine recreational fishing, a globally popular outdoor activity, has deep cultural roots and ecological implications. This study, conducted between 2021-2022, explores marine recreational fishing practices along the Turkish Black Sea coast. It analyzes fisher numbers and demographics, fishing effort, fishing methods, and species caught and released. Furthermore, the research sheds light on the economic dimensions, emphasizing the substantial contributions of recreational fishing to local economies. Notably, responsible practices, such as catch-and-release initiatives, demonstrate anglers’ awareness of conservation efforts. Within the Turkish Black Sea region, an observed 18.5% participation rate among a population of 24.5 million implies the presence of approximately 4.5 million marine recreational fishers. Annually, this translates to nearly 30 million fishing days, accompanied by a total expenditure of 400 million Euros. However, it’s imperative to handle these figures cautiously as the timing of the screening survey during the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced the high participation rate, introducing a potential bias. A detailed examination of a Turkish marine recreational fisher engaged in Black Sea fishing reveals an average annual catch of 16.5 kg of retained fish and 1.2 kg of released fish biomass. When extrapolated to the larger population of 4.5 million fishers, this culminates in a noteworthy landing biomass approaching 74,000 tons. The study unveils that marine recreational fishers in the Turkish Black Sea predominantly target commercially important species, resulting in a retained biomass surpassing commercial landings in 2021. This prompts concerns about potential impacts on crucial commercial fish stocks, underscoring the imperative inclusion of recreational fisheries in stock assessments. The research, providing essential insights into the intricate dynamics of recreational fishing, lays a foundation for well-informed policies and practices that concurrently promote environmental conservation and the continuation of this valued leisure activity.

Marine recreational fishing (MRF) is a socially and economically relevant fishing activity in Europe, but its impacts on ecosystems and the economy remain poorly understood, and management is limited. This paper evaluates the current European fisheries governance, particularly the Common Fishery Policy, in addressing MRF issues. Our evaluation highlights the lack of explicit recognition of MRF in European Union legislation, where recreational fisheries are not or insufficiently managed within a commercial fisheries-oriented policy framework. We recommend policy reform that explicitly recognizes recreational fisheries as a distinct fisheries sector with own interests, values and objectives, and dynamics that differ from those typical in commercial fisheries. On the operational level, we recommend involving key organizations representing MRF interests in advisory groups dealing with marine fisheries, nature conservation, and marine spatial use, and encourage sustainable fishing practices among all types of fisheries. To achieve this, there is a need for better and more comprehensive data collection, stakeholder engagement, and outreach to support effective MRF governance and management. By addressing these issues, Europe can maximize the benefits of MRF, while ensuring the sustainability of fisheries.

The first documented occurrence of the crucifix crab Charybdis feriata in the Adriatic Sea is reported here based on a single specimen captured off Senigallia in October 2023. Evidence from previously published records in the Mediterranean Sea, along with the present finding, suggests that this non-indigenous species, native to the tropical Indo West-Pacific belt, is being repeatedly introduced by shipping, likely concealed within the hull space of sea-chests. Conversely, the transport of larvae or early crab stages with ballast waters seems unlikely due to the thermal regimes of the recipient seas and the size of the recorded adult crabs.

A single Blue swimming crab Portunus segnis was captured on November 5 th 2022 close to the harbor of Ancona, off the central Adriatic coast (Italy) by artisanal fishers.Taxonomic comparisons were performed with collection materials, which also included two unreported specimens of the species from the Ionian coast of Calabria, Italy.The large distance between the Adriatic record of P. segnis and its invasion front, reinforces the hypothesis that human-mediated translocations contribute to the secondary dispersal or introduction of this invasive species in Mediterranean waters.

In a context in which climate change, overexploitation, and environmental degradation are continuously progressing, the sustainable use of the sea is a key target, both for resources and fishery operators. With the aim of enhancing the sustainability and competitiveness of the entire fishery sector, an innovation brokering event was organized. Via the application of a participatory, interactive, and bottom-up approach, different actors in the Italian SSF sector were stimulated to work together to find innovative solutions to day-by-day problems. During the consultation, and between the identified problems, emerged the lack of cooperation for marketing activity and effective strategies for seafood product development. A pilot action consisting in co-designing a virtual marketplace (VirMa) was the result of the event, intending to facilitate the direct sale of seafood products, explore this new and valuable market, and establish a direct line with consumers. The VirMa application was developed as a value chain network, trying to add value to seafood products. However, an information and communication tool, such as a VirMa, could contribute to increasing the resilience of the SSF sector to market constraints even during unforeseen events, such as a pandemic.

The expansion of the Norwegian aquaculture industry has generated a need for balancing aquaculture with other societal interests in the coastal zone.The interactions, conflicts and synergies of different uses of a Norwegian coastal region heavily influenced by large-scale salmonid aquaculture was analyzed and mapped by means of systematic stakeholder participatory approach and a GIS-based spatial interaction analysis tool, SEAGRID. Our study focused on spatial conflicts/ synergies, whereas non-spatial interactions were taken into account in order to elucidate the spatial effects.The questionnaire analysis showed that there was a large agreement across the respondents that aquaculture and fisheries compete for access to sea areas, which is also in agreement with the SEAGRID analysis. All but one of the interviewees thought that conservation issues will become more important in the future. We found that societal interests and infrastructure obstruct or displace private enterprises and economic interests, whereas environmental protection measures do so to a lesser extent; an exception are coral reefs which seem to be well protected against both fishing operations as well as new aquaculture facilities. Nature protection was not found to affect fisheries nor aquaculture to a large extent, with the exception of the single salmon fjord, which is protected from salmonid aquaculture, but otherwise open to other activities, such as fisheries, tourist fisheries and tourism in general. The restricted military areas had a limited extent, and were not viewed as a cause of conflicts.Stakeholder consultations, like our participatory GIS approach, combined with GIS-based tools for analysis of spatial conflicts/synergies may be useful in identifying areas where aquaculture production can increase with little increase in degree of conflict with fisheries, although some interactions are not strictly spatial. Our results indicated a certain degree of mistrust of management authorities since neither fishermen nor aquaculturists perceived that their own sector was given priority by management authorities, but thought the other sector was prioritized.

Small-Scale Fishery (SSF) is recognized as one of the more sustainable among the activities currently exploiting marine renewable resources. This is mainly due to the use of fishing gears characterised by a low environmental impact and a high selectivity. However, there is still room for improvement when analysing the sustainability of SSF sector. Within this context, Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emissions - CO2 in particular - are one of the most relevant aspect to be considered. In particular, fuel consumption and its reduction represent the main issue when discussing sustainability, especially to cope with climate changes. In this paper, the first inventory of CO2 emissions from the SSF vessels in the Central-Northern Adriatic Sea (GSA17) has been compiled, based on data collected from SSF operators, validated by means of a geospatial-based method. Emission intensity estimates - 7.01 kg of CO2 emitted per kg of landing or 2.08 kg of CO2 emitted per euro of landing - confirmed the lower values by SSF vessels in comparison with other fleet segments. Results are discussed in the light of the mitigation of GHG emissions for the SSF, considering the technological features of Adriatic SSF, fishers' behaviour and an improved management of the fishery.

Marine Recreational Fishing (MRF) is a highly attended complex activity, extremely evident along the coastlines, and mainly practiced among riparian communities. For that reason, this activity plays an important role to effectively contribute to the collective well-being, both from the social and economic points of view. However, it may negatively affect the fish stocks and the marine environment in general, mainly due to the removal of biological resources. The growing need to evaluate the magnitude of marine recreational fishing is recognized worldwide, especially in the last decade, when inclusive fishing programs began to focus their attention on this fishing activity. Based on its unexpected evidence and its wider repercussion on social behavior, the COVID-19 pandemic is considered by the scientific community as one of the most unique opportunities to better understand the social phenomenon and their repercussion on the environment. In this work will be reported very preliminary results on the consistency of marine recreational fishing in the case study of the Marche region (Italy). Number of recreational fishers and fishing effort were estimated through a telephone survey conducted in the Italian side of the Northern Adriatic Sea (FAO GFCM Geographical Sub Area 17) by interviewing 580 households. The sampling strategy also included a recall survey, which was carried out every month on a list of recruited fishers. In this manner, additional information was collected, such as detailed fishing effort, catches, and expenditures. In addition, biological data of catches were estimated through several on-site surveys. The information collected from January and December 2020 was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of social restrictions and access to marine places, inevitably impacting on marine recreational fishing features, including the biological resources and the related economic aspects.

The knowledge of small-scale fisheries (SSFs) is important to develop management policies and mitigate the competition for marine resources. However, spatially explicit information is often unavailable at the regional and subregional scale. We designed and tested a novel participatory approach to map the SSF fishing effort using the Mediterranean sea as a case study. We applied the approach in eight countries (Albania, Croatia, Italy, Libya, Malta, Montenegro, Slovenia and Tunisia) characterized by different cultural, social, political and ecological features. The results provided quantitative and spatially explicit information on fishing operations on a fine-scale resolution, contributing to overcome the pragmatic and budgetary constraints that to date have prevented an accurate assessment of SSFs worldwide. This novel participatory approach is inspired by the principles of governance, adaptive management, cross-national cooperation and spatial planning, thus supporting the ecosystem approach to fisheries and has the potential to provide a useful complement to traditional assessments.

Human pressures on marine ecosystems significantly increased during last decades. Among the intense anthropic activities, industrial fisheries have caused the alteration of habitats, the reduction of biodiversity and the main fish stocks. The aim of this research, carried out in the Adriatic Sea, was to test a repeatable Marine Spatial Planning framework aimed at enhancing fisheries sustainability through the application of Decision Support Tools and the composition of a catalog of possible measures. The use of these tools proved very useful to identify possible criticalities and facilitate an effective exchange with fisheries stakeholders, local authorities, and fishermen, whose involvement was an indispensable step in the process. Tool-based analyses allowed to assess the spatial footprint of a range of anthropogenic pressures from human activities (e.g., fisheries, maritime traffic, and aquaculture). Within this multi-pressure scenario, special attention was paid to fishing-related disturbances and potential conflicts across different fishing métier and with other sectors. Specifically, results highlighted the spatial features of the major fishing pressures (e.g., abrasion from trawling) affecting essential fish habitats, marine mammals and turtles in the study area. A portfolio of possible management measures is identified for the study area. It provides clear evidence that, in order to mitigate emerging conflicts and cumulative impacts, it is necessary to combine and integrate different types of measures: spatial measures modulated over time, monitoring and control, actions to fill knowledge gaps, concertation—involvement—co-management actions, improvement of governance systems, actions to support innovation in the sector, etc. Given the complex set of measures discussed, this work can provide a useful contribution to the management of fisheries both at local and regional level, fostering the transition to sustainable fisheries.