Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Ecosystems

The SciCOFish project contributes to tuna stocks assessment through funding tagging cruises (the next one is planned for 2011) but also observer trainings like this one, held in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia. The collection of these samples or data also allow analysis and interpretations on tuna behaviour, feeding patterns, migration and mortality which is used to better inform each SPC member country on the dynamics of tuna stocks within their EEZs.

 

Malo Hosken, SPC Research Assistant, organized the training sessions, beginning with a summary of general knowledge in biological sampling, and then providing details of each sample that observers may be asked to collect. The presentations explained the role biological samples have in better understanding the biology of tuna species, the SPC study projects for each species and a practical session was done for extraction of otoliths, stomach, muscle, liver, spine, gonads, using different techniques.

 

General information was provided on the tagging programme, and Malo detailed how to fill in tag recovery forms.

 

Malo reviewed their knowledge through game-challenge situations. This approach is complementary to ‘formal’ presentations and creates a less stressful atmosphere which eventually helps the trainees to assimilate the vast amount of information they are given.

 

The manuals handed out (Tag recovery and Biological sampling) are good supporting material in which all observers will find answers if in doubt. However, the assessment practical sessions showed that all trainees understood the biological sampling and tagging operations they may be required to undertake as fisheries observers.

 

 

 malo2

 

 

 

malo3

 

Last Updated on Thursday, 19 May 2011 16:15
 

 


blank