ITUNNES

Objective

The key objective of ITUNNES is to develop the best available scientific advice on tropical tuna biology to reduce single species and ecosystem models’ uncertainties and foster the implementation of effective management measures for tropical tunas at tuna Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (t-RFMOs).

To achieve this, ITUNNES will create a coordinated European sampling network building upon existing national sampling structures, based on existing knowledge and needs on tropical tuna biology and using the consortium’s breadth of expertise and ambition.

ITUNNES will also produce state-of-the-art key biological data and parameters , along with products and tools that can be applied by End-Users to reduce uncertainties in biological processes (growth/age, reproduction, trophic ecology and population structure) for tropical tuna stocks (yellowfin tuna – Thunnus albacares (YFT); skipjack tuna – Katsuwonus pelamis (SKJ); and bigeye tuna – Thunnus obesus (BET)).

Ultimately, ITUNNES seeks to reduce uncertainties in tropical tuna stocks assessment models and ecosystem models of the various t-RFMOs in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans for the sustainable management of these fisheries and broader ecological and socioeconomic implications associated to these resources.