The research vessel Dr. Fridtjof Nansen, operated by the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research (IMR), has embarked on a scientific expedition in waters under Mozambican jurisdiction. It aims to deepen knowledge about marine ecology and population dynamics of fisheries resources in the country.
The expedition is investigating spawning grounds, early stages of marine life, adult stock dynamics, genetic diversity and climatic and environmental factors. The information obtained will be essential to ensure food security and sustainably promote Mozambique’s blue economy.
The first phase of the expedition, focused on the larval stages of marine resources in the Sofala Bank, was successfully completed between 9 and 25 February. The Sofala Bank, vital for fisheries and the local economy, was the focus of the research, which provided important data on the abundance, distribution and survival of larvae, fundamental aspects for the sustainable management of fisheries resources.
These data will be integrated with oceanographic information and computer models to predict fish stocks and the impacts of environmental changes, helping to formulate conservation and sustainable use strategies.
The second phase of the expedition, which covers fisheries resources along the Mozambican coast, from Rovuma to Maputo, began on 28 February and will continue until 31 March. The vessel “Dr. Fridtjof Nansen” will continue its journey in other regions of the Indian Ocean.
In addition, the vessel will return to Mozambique in October for the third phase of the expedition, which will focus on mapping the seabed habitats of the Sofala Bank.
The expedition involves a multidisciplinary team of 43 scientists from several Mozambican institutions, including InOM and Eduardo Mondlane University. This collaboration reinforces the commitment of the Government of Mozambique to excellent marine research, both nationally and internationally.
This is an initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries (MAAP), in partnership with the Oceanographic Institute of Mozambique (InOM), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research (IMR) and Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM).
(By Renaldo Manhice)
