Exploring the Depths: Argentina’s New Study on Illex Squid
This week marks the beginning of an exciting month-long journey as Argentina sets sail on a cruise assessment to study the elusive Illex Argentinus squid along the Patagonian shelf. The research will take place aboard the Ocean Fisheries Research Vessel, Victor Angelescu, covering an extensive area between parallels 46 and 51 degrees south.
Here is what to expect from this groundbreaking study:
- Scientists and marine biologists will embark on a mission to confirm the distribution and concentration areas of the sub-Patagonic squid along the Patagonia sea shelf and trench. Their research will focus on a band at 100/500 isobaths to determine the biomass and abundance of the squid population using the sweeping method. Additionally, they will study the distribution and abundance linked to summer spawning.
- Biological samples of squid will undergo analysis to assess environmental parameters such as temperature and salinity. This data will provide an oceanographic diagnosis of the researched area, aiding in estimating the abundance and distribution of summer squid stocks.
- The Argentine National Institute for Fisheries Research and Development, INIDEP, based in Mar del Plata, underscores the importance of this scientific cruise. This marks a significant milestone in understanding the Illex squid population, with the first similar study conducted back in 1994.
In a related development, the Argentine opposition is urging the Foreign Affairs ministry to request detailed information from the UK and Spain governments regarding the “Golden Chicha” (FK0512) expedition from Vigo to the South Atlantic (Falklands). This request aims to assess the volumes of squid in the Malvinas zone following the challenging 2024 winter season.
As Argentina embarks on this month-long study, the insights gained will undoubtedly provide valuable information for the conservation and management of the Illex squid population in the region. Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking research expedition.
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