Smart Technologies for Sustainable Bonito Fishing

TICS-BONITO Project

Abstract

Tuna fishing represents a critical pillar of the global economy, particularly for Spain, which ranks fifth worldwide with annual landings exceeding 300 thousand metric tons. In response to overexploitation and biodiversity loss associated with more intensive fishing methods, the TICS-BONITO project introduces technological innovations to support selective and environmentally respectful harvesting. In the inshore fishery, the project proposes developing a rod support system to facilitate deck operations paired with tension sensors that detect bite events and estimate the weight of each specimen, thereby digitalizing key process variables for enhanced data analysis. For offshore purse-seine operations, Fish Aggregating Devices will be optimized using biodegradable materials composed of natural ropes and fibers, thus preventing pollution from abandoned plastics and minimizing marine contamination. Collaboration with partner organizations ensures validation and future industrial-scale deployment of these prototypes, advancing the transition toward a more sustainable blue economy.