A study developed by the marine conservation entity Submon in the area of Cap de Creus and the Illes Medes (Alt Empordà) has confirmed that the relationship between trawler fishermen and bottlenose dolphins is stable and beneficial. The research, which began in 2017, uses underwater cameras and artificial intelligence to analyze the animals' behavior.
“"Collaboration with the fishing sector is one of the basic pillars of the project."
Using 'GoPro' cameras installed on the nets, the team verified that the dolphins follow the boats and primarily feed on small fish remaining outside the net, without entering or causing damage. This methodology allowed for the first detailed study of this interaction.
“"Over the years we have seen that the dolphin takes advantage of our activity, because we offer them a great facility."
In parallel, the project has identified 700 different individuals since 2017 through photo-identification of the dorsal fin, which functions like a "fingerprint," according to technician Natàlia Amigó. This monitoring indicates that the population moves along the entire Catalan coast and even the Gulf of Lion.
