Project description

The SILEV project addresses key knowledge gaps on the ecology and population structure of Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) in the Mediterranean, with the aim of supporting sustainable fisheries management. It focuses on the spawning areas of the central and eastern Mediterranean (Sicily and the Levant) and on recruitment processes, which are still affected by significant uncertainties. The project is based on collaboration between Italian and Turkish research groups and on the adoption of integrated and innovative methodological approaches.

Objectives

The specific objectives are to: standardise ichthyoplankton sampling protocols; improve identification criteria for tuna larvae; apply genetic techniques for the identification of early life stages (eggs and larvae) and for the study of population structure; develop fishery-independent larval abundance indices; and strengthen scientific cooperation between the central and eastern Mediterranean.

Activities

Activities integrate ecological, genetic and oceanographic approaches, and include oceanographic surveys in spawning areas, analysis of historical data series, laboratory work for morphological and genetic identification, and joint workshops between Italian and Turkish partners to harmonise protocols and procedures. Particular emphasis will be placed on the development and validation of models for estimating spawning biomass.

Expected results and knowledge advancement

Expected outcomes include the development of standardised Mediterranean-scale protocols, new larval abundance indices, and improved knowledge of tuna population structure. The project will provide tools to strengthen international cooperation and contribute high-impact scientific results, with direct implications for marine resource management and conservation in the Mediterranean, in line with Blue Growth objectives.

Role of the institute in the project

The Institute plays a central role in coordinating scientific activities and in developing shared methodologies for the study of early life stages of tuna species in the Mediterranean. In particular, it contributes to the design and implementation of oceanographic surveys in the central Mediterranean, with a focus on Sicilian waters, and provides a consolidated long-term ichthyoplankton dataset.

Key responsibilities include the standardization of sampling and sample preservation protocols, support for the definition of taxonomic criteria for larval identification, and the development of genetic analyses applied to eggs and larvae. The Institute is also involved in the development of fishery-independent larval abundance indices, which are essential for stock assessment.

Through these activities, the Institute significantly contributes to the advancement of scientific knowledge and to strengthening the technical basis for sustainable marine resource management, while also promoting international cooperation among project partners.