Advances in efficient catch data collection through electronic monitoring systems

The challenge

Fisheries monitoring programmes are essential for effective management of marine resources, as they provide scientifics and managers with the data needed both to produce scientific advice and to support fisheries control and surveillance. With technological advances, electronic monitoring—which includes cameras, GPS, and sensors installed on fishing vessels—has emerged as a powerful tool to improve monitoring and control in fisheries.

At present, however, the review and interpretation of images captured by these monitoring systems still require human intervention, slowing down data processing and decision-making.

The solution

Electronic Monitoring Systems (EMS) are advanced technologies used in fisheries to record, monitor, and analyse on-board activities in real time or retrospectively. These systems combine tools such as video cameras, sensors, GPS, and data analysis software to provide accurate information on catches, fishing activity, and regulatory compliance.

They represent an effective and complementary alternative to human observers on board, reducing operational costs and improving efficiency in the collection of key information for sustainable fisheries management.

The results

Although current results still lack the robustness required for full deployment as a scientific monitoring and fisheries control tool, measures are being implemented to address these limitations. These include the use of stereoscopic cameras to generate 3D point clouds and reconstruct non-visible parts of the fish, enabling more complete and accurate measurements.