INIPM's latest study: understanding Angola's sardinella stock dynamics

INIPM's latest study: understanding Angola's sardinella stock dynamics

In a demonstration of its growing marine research capabilities, Angola's National Institute for Fisheries and Marine Research (INIPM), supported by the AIR Centre, has unveiled crucial insights into the dynamics affecting sardinella populations along the Angolan coast. Once boasting abundance levels of around 200,000 tons, sardinella fishing has been a cornerstone of Angola's economy and food security, providing essential protein for countless families.
INIPM researchers uncovered the complex relationship between climate factors and fishing pressure affecting sardinella populations. This study identified key geographical challenges, including unfavorable coastal bathymetry that impacts egg and larvae retention. The investigation highlights discoveries regarding recruitment patterns in the south of Tombwa. It also demonstrates that successful sardinella recruitment depends heavily on strong upwelling phenomena and relatively cold South Atlantic summer conditions, especially in the tropical upwelling region between Soyo and Baía Farta. This comprehensive study of environmental factors, including climate change, unsustainable fishing practices, and ecological balance, and their impact on sardinella populations represents a significant step forward in sustainable fisheries management. Member of the AIR Centre network since October 2021, INIPM continues to demonstrate its growing expertise in marine research and its commitment to securing Angola's maritime resources for future generations.
Share this entry

Other News

Research

International Workshop in the Azores strengthens marine biodiversity data sharing

calendar_today October 28, 2026

The second edition of the Enhancing Marine Biodiversity Data Collection and Publication workshop took place on Terceira Island, Azores, from 19 to 23 October, bringing together researchers, data managers and marine practitioners from Europe, Africa and the Americas. Organised by the Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON) and the AIR Centre, the workshop focused on strengthening skills in marine biodiversity data collection, standardisation and publication.

Research

Small pelagic stock assessment in Angola: strengthening the science behind sustainable catches

calendar_today October 27, 2026

From October 19 to 23, 2026, a team from the AIR Centre returned to Luanda for a working meeting with colleagues from Angola’s National Institute of Fisheries and Marine Research (INIPM), the University of the Azores and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). This is the second year of a partnership that supports the scientific assessment of Angola’s small pelagic fish stocks.

Collaboration

Laoshan Laboratory and AIR Centre sign MoU and formalise cooperation in marine science

calendar_today October 23, 2026

On 23 October, the AIR Centre welcomed a delegation from Laoshan Laboratory and the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Portugal to its Lisbon headquarters for discussions on strengthening international cooperation in marine science and innovation.