Kochi, November 2 (IANS). Satellites can help scientists figure out where fish are moving as oceans change. This can provide important information to fishing communities and help protect marine resources.
This will be one of the main topics at an international symposium starting here on Wednesday.
Scientists from more than 30 countries will discuss how satellite technology and climate research can help understand changes in the oceans and their impact on fisheries.
The three-day 'Trevor-Safari' symposium, to be held at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), will focus on the use of modern technology for monitoring marine ecosystems.
Satellite data can help track changes in ocean temperatures, ocean productivity, and the distribution of fish. This information can help identify potential fishing zones, allowing fishermen to better plan their trips.
The meeting will also look at how climate change, changing monsoon patterns and extreme weather events affect fish populations and marine life.
Changes in ocean conditions and water quality can affect the availability of fish and threaten the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Scientists will discuss ways to make fisheries more sustainable and protect marine biodiversity.
They will also consider how traditional knowledge of fishing communities can be combined with modern science.
The role of women and marginalized communities in the fisheries sector will also be discussed.
A special session organized in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology will look at how 'remote sensing' can help monitor the health of aquatic ecosystems.
It will follow the 'One Health' approach, which links environmental health with human and animal health.
“The main objective of these discussions is to better understand ocean conditions and improve environmental monitoring, to ensure safe fisheries, sustainable resources, seafood security and the long-term well-being of the livelihoods of coastal communities,” said Dr. Grinson George, Director of CMFRI.
More than 80 foreign delegates are expected to attend this three-day seminar. It is being jointly organized by the Department of Chemical Oceanography, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Trevor Platt Science Foundation, CMFRI and Marine Biological Association of India.
The event will also launch the 'Bay of Bengal Network of Ocean Researchers for Fisheries', which aims to promote collaboration among scientists in the region.
–IANS
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