Recovery of a Satellite Tag Advances Bluefin Tuna Conservation

In an extraordinary achievement, an Argos satellite tag deployed on a bluefin tuna was recovered after 385 days of tracking, marking a significant milestone in marine conservation efforts.

Thanks to the precise technology of the Goniometer, this retrieval represents a technical feat and a major step forward in understanding the behaviors and environments of these magnificent marine creatures.

Tag recovery: Part of the PROMPT project

The tag recovery is part of the PROMPT project, led by IFREMER and funded by France Filière Pêche (FFP).

This initiative, in collaboration with ATLANTIC TAGGING BLUEFIN TUNA and the Bourgenay Fishing Club, focuses on tagging bluefin tuna to collect critical data about their migrations, movements, and habitats. Equipped with light and temperature sensors, the tag provided invaluable insights, enabling researchers to map trajectories and refine strategies for sustainable fisheries management.

The Goniometer: An effectiveness platform finder 

The Goniometer, which was instrumental in this recovery, has also proven its effectiveness in other projects. Its precision has been used to recover tags from a variety of marine species, contributing to numerous studies on fish, marine mammals, and even sea turtles.

This versatile technology enables researchers to retrieve valuable data that might otherwise be lost, advancing our understanding of marine ecosystems and the behaviors of aquatic species across the globe.

The role of IFREMER

IFREMER—the French institute dedicated to ocean research—has played a pivotal role in this effort. The institute’s mission includes protecting and restoring the ocean, managing marine resources sustainably, and sharing critical marine data to drive innovation and conservation initiatives worldwide.

This recovery, supported by CLS’s Argos Services, highlights the importance of satellite technology in addressing global marine biodiversity challenges. By providing detailed insights into bluefin tuna behavior, this achievement not only enhances conservation strategies but also underscores the value of collaboration in advancing sustainable practices.

We’d like to say a huge thank you to Tristan Rouyer for sharing this incredible story with us.

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