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Profile updated on 12 February 2025
SCIENTIFIC NAME(s)
Sardina pilchardus
SPECIES NAME(s)
European pilchard, Sardine, European sardine
The European pilchard (Sardina pilchardus) in the Adriatic Sea was previously divided into Northern and Southern assessment units. Nevertheless, it was concluded that it is a single population with a high genetic flow (Ruggeri et al. 2013). Since 2014, and considering that many Italian vessels fish in GSA 17 but land in GSA 18, it has been considered a single assessment unit (AdriaMED 2015)(SAC 2024).
The fishery for small pelagic fish in the Adriatic Sea targets two species, the European anchovy, and the European pilchard. The fishery is managed through the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), with regulations and recommendations binding to all member states, including the European Community (GFCM n.d.). Management at the EU and national levels complement regional efforts. Members exploiting these stocks are Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, Albania, and Montenegro (European Parliament 2022).
Management Quality:
≥ 6
≥ 8
≥ 6