The institution in charge of conducting this urgent study (Imarpe) has launched a research cruise to evaluate the abundance and distribution of the giant squid (Dosidicus gigas), known as “pota”, along the Peruvian coast. This cruise, which runs from January 15 to February 2, will be carried out on two scientific research vessels: the BIC José Olaya Balandra, which covers the north area, and the BIC Humboldt, in charge of the south area.
The research aims to know the population structure, the biological status and the interaction of the squid with marine ecosystems. This information will be crucial to project the recovery of this resource, especially after the impact of the 2024 El Niño phenomenon, which reduced catches last year. Giant squid is considered one of the most important resource in Peru, and its exploitation is key for thousands of artisanal fishermen.
The results obtained will also allow the development of recommendations to the Ministry of Production (Produce) on fisheries management measures, in order to ensure sustainable management of the resource.