Coping with current impacts: The case of Scyliorhinus canicula in the NW Mediterranean Sea and implications for human consumption

The small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) is a bottom-dwelling elasmobranch that represents the most discarded catch in terms of biomass in the Catalan coast (NW Mediterranean). Potential impacts affecting its population and food safety implications have been assessed in three localities along the Catalan coast. Distinct indicators were integrated, such as biological data, ingested anthropogenic items (plastic and cellulose-like items), parasitological indices, trace metal concentrations and histopathology using liver as target organ. Although high ingestion rates of fibres and levels of some heavy metals, they do not seem negatively affected by any major pathology nor by the current levels of pollutants. Small-scale differences among localities and depths were found and discussed. No zoonotic parasites were found. Encysted larvae of Grillotia adenoplusia and, above all, the levels of Hg found in the musculature, that are well over the European Commission limits, rise concerns regarding human consumption of S. canicula in this region.

Coexistence of megabenthic assemblages and artisanal fishers: The case of Cap de Creus Marine Protected Area (North-Western Mediterranean Sea)

Artisanal fisheries, although considered less harmful, can still endanger marine ecosystems, especially in areas with long-standing tradition. In Cap de Creus, where artisanal fisheries has likely occurred for centuries, the status of benthic communities in fishing grounds was poorly understood. Through collaboration with local fishers, the benthic assemblages in three artisanal fishing grounds within Cap de Creus Marine Protected Area (MPA) were studied. Using video transects recorded by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), the diversity and distribution of species were analysed in relation to substrate type, slope, and depth. The study also assessed the impacts on these communities by examining marine litter, lost fishing gear, and the condition of gorgonian populations. The findings identified three megabenthic assemblages and revealed higher fishing pressure and impact in the Maça d'Oros area, likely due to multiple fishing guilds converging. However, the study demonstrated lower impact in MPAs compared to unprotected Mediterranean areas, highlighting the importance of coastal management.