The activity strengthened the technical capacities of scientific observers involved in the monitoring of highly migratory resource fisheries, addressing theoretical and practical content in anatomy, species identification, and biological monitoring.
The Fisheries Development Institute (IFOP) held the IV Workshop on Chondrichthyan Biology and Anatomy, aimed at scientific observers participating in the monitoring of highly migratory resource fisheries. The training took place at the IFOP headquarters in San Antonio, combining theoretical sessions with practical activities oriented toward field work.
The workshop aimed to reinforce knowledge in the biology and anatomy of sharks, rays, and chimaeras, as well as to strengthen competencies in species identification, conventional tagging, and biological monitoring—fundamental aspects to ensure the quality and consistency of the information collected on board.
In this regard, Dr. Patricia Zárate, the workshop instructor, noted that “anatomical knowledge and correct species identification are key to conducting reliable field observations, especially in groups such as chondrichthyans, which present high diversity and particular challenges for fisheries monitoring.”
During the activity, content on external and internal anatomy by systems, taxonomy, reproductive strategies, and handling protocols was addressed, along with practical exercises in identifying diagnostic characters, biological sampling, and spaghetti tagging. Likewise, the biological monitoring requirements defined for the year 2026 within the framework of the Monitoring Program for Main National Fisheries were reviewed.
Dr. Zárate highlighted that “the practical session allowed for the direct application of the reviewed content, strengthening essential skills for the shipboard and dockside work of scientific observers in highly migratory resource fisheries.”
The activity concluded with theoretical and practical evaluations, the delivery of certificates, and a feedback session, contributing to the strengthening of the technical capacities of scientific observers and the support that IFOP provides to the research, evaluation, and conservation of chondrichthyans in Chilean waters.
