OUR WORK
Investigation
At Fundación México Azul, we work hand in hand with marine biologists, ecologists, universities, research centers, and specialists who seek to generate a real impact on marine conservation.
We generate and strengthen scientific knowledge for marine conservation in Mexico. Through citizen science, collaboration with specialists, and accessible technology, we promote projects that allow us to better understand species, assess their status, and design evidence-based solutions.
Marking and monitoring of Mako Sharks
The mako shark is a keystone species for ocean health. Through satellite tagging and citizen science, we study its movements, migration patterns, and the fishing pressure it faces, generating essential data for proposing protected areas and sustainable fisheries management strategies.
Mitigation of incidental capture of manta rays
In partnership with Mobula Conservation, we are working on redesigning fishing gear and developing visual technologies that reduce the bycatch of manta rays and other vulnerable species. This effort decreases mortality, protects biodiversity, and benefits fishing communities.
Research results or impacts
Social impact:
1. We improved public perception of sharks and manta rays.
2. We create educational opportunities and development of young scientific talent.
3. We generate accessible information for coastal communities.
Environmental impact:
1. Data on mortality, migration and populations of elasmobranchs.
2. Identification of priority areas for protection.
3. Risk reduction due to incidental capture.
Economic impact:
1. We strengthen responsible fishing and sustainable management.
2. We benefit fishing communities by reducing losses and improving income.
Research results and impacts
Social impact:
We improved public perception of sharks and manta rays.
We create educational opportunities and develop young scientific talent.
We generate accessible information for coastal communities.
Environmental impact:
Data on mortality, migration and populations of elasmobranchs.
Identification of priority areas for protection.
Risk reduction due to incidental capture.
Economic impact:
We strengthen responsible fishing and sustainable management.
We benefit fishing communities by reducing losses and improving income.
Research intervention:
1. Experimental redesign and sampling of fishing gear.
2. Development of technologies to reduce incidental catches based on visual signals in order to deter them from approaching fishing nets.
Results of the intervention:
Unexpectedly low catch rates of rays and owls were recorded, reflecting a positive effect on reducing pressure on these species.
Research intervention:
1. Experimental redesign and sampling of fishing gear.
2. Development of technologies to reduce incidental catches based on visual signals in order to deter them from approaching fishing nets.
Results of the intervention:
Unexpectedly low catch rates of rays and owls were recorded, reflecting a positive effect on reducing pressure on these species.
They help keep plankton populations under control, ensuring that enough sunlight penetrates the ocean, encouraging the growth of algae and other marine life.
In addition to distributing nutrients throughout the ecosystem, they are especially vulnerable to overexploitation; in a 100-day period, 480 incidental catches were recorded.