Menorca trawling ban: four species show richer DNA

Four marine species in the Menorca Channel, in the Balearic Islands, show greater genetic diversity inside a zone closed to trawling than in two areas open to fishing. The University of the Balearic Islands reported the finding on 28 October, after researchers analysed nearly 400 animals sampled between 2021 and 2023. Trawling has been banned in the protected zone since 2016.

What the samples show

The team studied striped red mullet, painted comber, scorpionfish and common octopus. All four had their highest levels of genetic variety in the protected zone. The researchers measured this by comparing a fragment of mitochondrial DNA used as a genetic barcode. They caution that the method offers an initial check, not a substitute for broader genetic studies.

Fishing moves beyond the ban

Fishing activity shifted after the zone was created, particularly towards the nearest area where fishing remained allowed. Records of boat activity from 2009 to 2023 showed comparatively lower genetic diversity in areas where fishing increased or stayed at the same level.

Animals move between the areas, but the researchers warn that continued fishing pressure could remove rare genetic variants faster than arrivals can replace them. Lead researcher Noemi Pasini says genetic measurements could help monitor protected areas and guide conservation decisions.

Topics: Nature & wildlife · Environment

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com