Spillover Effects from MPAs to Recreational Fisheries
Fundacion Rapala – Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are known for preserving ocean life. But beyond protection, they offer something more: spillover effects. These benefits reach nearby fishing areas, especially recreational fisheries, making MPAs valuable for both conservation and the economy. How Spillover Supports Nearby Fishing Zones Spillover happens when fish populations grow inside MPAs and then move
Ropeless Fishing Gear: A Gamechanger for Marine Conservation
Fundacion Rapala – The future of ocean sustainability increasingly relies on innovation. One of the most promising solutions in recent years is ropeless fishing gear—technology that offers a safer, cleaner alternative to traditional fishing practices. This gear helps reduce marine entanglements and eliminates ghost gear, benefiting both marine ecosystems and coastal communities. The Hidden Cost of Traditional
Harnessing Whale Faeces to Track Arctic Ocean Health
Fundacion Rapala – Recent landmark research has revealed innovative use of whale faeces as a biological indicator to monitor the health of the Arctic Ocean. Specifically, scientists analyzed samples from bowhead whales to track the presence of harmful algal toxins over time Why Whale Faeces Matter in Ecological Monitoring Firstly, whale faeces serve as integrated snapshots of
Coral Reef Restoration with AI Underwater Drone Technology
Fundacion Rapala – Coral reefs are the rainforests of the sea—complex ecosystems teeming with life. However, due to climate change, pollution, and destructive fishing practices, these fragile ecosystems have been rapidly deteriorating. As global awareness of marine conservation grows, scientists and innovators are turning to cutting-edge technology to aid in their restoration. Among the most promising solutions
Blue Carbon: Oceanic Carbon in Conservation and the Green Economy
Fundacion Rapala – In recent years, the term blue carbon has gained momentum in both environmental and economic discussions. It refers to the carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems, such as mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes. These ecosystems play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) more efficiently than terrestrial
Modern Aquaculture Technology: IoT & AI in Fish Farming
Fundacion Rapala – Aquaculture, also known as fish farming, has long played a vital role in global food security. However, with the increasing demand for seafood and the growing concerns over environmental sustainability, modern technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things) and AI (Artificial Intelligence) are becoming essential in transforming traditional fish farming into a smarter, more
Is an Eel a Fish or a Snake? Here’s the Scientific Explanation
Fundacion Rapala – At first glance, it’s easy to confuse an eel with a snake. Their elongated, slimy bodies and slithering movements often blur the lines between aquatic and reptilian life. However, scientifically speaking, there’s a clear classification that settles the debate once and for all: eels are fish. Understanding the Habitat and Appearance of Eels To
Flooding isn’t a Problem: Jakarta Residents Fish for Giant Catfish
Fundacion Rapala – Flooding hit parts of Jakarta again, but one local resident turned the situation into something unexpected. Instead of panicking, a man took out his fishing rod and managed to catch a giant catfish right on the street. The viral moment, captured in a short video, showcases the unique way Jakartans cope with floods. The
148-Pound Opah Hooked Off South Florida Waters
Fundacion Rapala – On June 15, Father’s Day turned extraordinary for a group of anglers off Fort Lauderdale, Florida. While deep-sea fishing for swordfish, they landed an incredibly rare 148-pound opah, also known as a moonfish. The team caught it at a depth of 1,800 feet, about 17 miles offshore near Port Everglades. The opah stretched
Senegal Caught Between Economy and Environment Over Fishmeal
Fundacion Rapala -Senegal finds itself at the center of a growing environmental and economic controversy. The rapid expansion of the fishmeal industry has sparked heated debate across the country. On one hand, it provides jobs and export revenue. On the other, it threatens marine ecosystems and traditional fishing communities. As a result, this tension is