Aggregations of wild Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus L.) at Mediterranean offshore fish farm sites: Environmental and management considerations

In recent years, Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is being observed to increasingly and more frequently aggregate around Mediterranean offshore fish farms. In the present work, potential interactions between aggregations of this important pelagic species and offshore fish farms and local fisheries were assessed through a questionnaire survey aimed at fish farmers, divers and stakeholders in the Mediterranean. Since the interactions may have implications for aquaculture and marine ecology, enhanced management strategies for the conservation of endangered Mediterranean stocks of Atlantic Bluefin tuna, as well as for sustainable development of aquaculture and fishery activities are discussed.