Over the past few decades, human impact on marine organisms and ecosystems has become increasingly pronounced, which, along with climate change, poses a significant stress on marine organisms, especially economically important species that are also intensively exploited. Considering that many exploited stocks are at risk of overfishing, researching such species is of great importance to gather relevant information that will contribute to their sustainable management.

The proposed project aims to deepen current knowledge about the status of pelagic and demersal fishery resources in the Adriatic Sea and to holistically examine various aspects of the consequences of exploiting fishery resources, as well as the impacts of climate change on them. The project will unfold through six modules: i) the impact of establishing the FRA Jabuka on key bottom resources; ii) the impact of establishing the FRA Jabuka on the structure of food webs; iii) research on interspecific relationships and dietary characteristics of nekton under the influence of climate change; iv) non-invasive research on the impact of fishing on marine ecosystems; v) assessment of the state of small pelagic fish in the Adriatic Sea; vi) analysis of the growth dynamics and reproductive cycle of economically significant shellfish species. The project’s results will contribute to a better understanding of demersal and pelagic resources and serve as a basis for measures necessary to ensure the long-term economic sustainability of fisheries while considering the protection of marine resources.

The planned research will be strategically integrated and enhance some of the existing studies conducted in the Laboratory of Fisheries Science, thereby creating synergy, continuity, and progress in the already established research.

The European Union finances – NextGenerationEU. The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official positions of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the European Commission can be held responsible for them.