FishSec

The importance protecting small pelagic fish in European seas – Forage fish event Brussels during Ocean week

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Organisers: FishSec, Blue Marine Foundation & Irish Wildlife Trust

Date: 16 October 12:30pm to 2:00 pm

Location: Brussels, hybrid event

 

Within the framework of Ocean Week, this event aims to bring attention to the important role that small pelagic fish, also called forage fish, play in the wider marine ecosystem health across Europe. Forage fish include species such  as sprat, herring or sandeel and are both exploited commercially for direct human consumption and for the production of fishmeal and oil. In addition to their key role as prey for larger fish such as cod, seabirds and marine mammals, forage fish are planktivores that act as a link for energy and nutrients between tiny plants and animals and large predators. The health of forage fish populations is critical, not only for their own sustainability but also for the broader marine ecosystem.

Unlike iconic species such as cod, tuna and salmon, these small fish mainly stay out of the spotlight of the general public and decision makers even though they represent a significant economic value to the European fisheries sector.

Our joint event aims to shed light on both the importance of these small fish for the wider marine ecosystem, but also highlight why these fish must be managed sustainably and within the principles of the ecosystem based approach to management. With examples of management in the Baltic Sea and the lack of management in the Irish Sea, the event will explore weaknesses in the current management regimes as well as key recommendations for ensuring a more sustainable exploitation. Finally, the event will also explore the UK-EU dispute over the closure of the sandeel fishery in British waters.

Draft agenda:

  • 12:30 Starting remarks
  • 12:35 FishSec introduction and launch of report
  • 13:05 Q&A 5 minutes
  • 13:10 Blue Marine Foundation presents EU-UK sandeel challenge
  • 13:30 Q&A 5 minutes
  • 13:35 Irish Wildlife trust presents sprat management in Irish waters
  • 13:50 Q&A 5 minutes
  • 13:55 Closing remarks
  • 14:00 End

 

 

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Last updated: September 5, 2025