Oral Presentation Australian Society for Fish Biology Conference 2025

Molecular Monitoring for Sustainable Fisheries: Enhancing Traceability, Compliance, and Conservation (128662)

Madeline Green 1
  1. UTAS, Hobart, TAS, Australia

The increasing complexity of global fisheries presents significant challenges for monitoring and managing marine resources. Molecular monitoring tools, including genetic barcoding and environmental DNA (eDNA) offer new avenues for tracking and identifying seafood across the supply chain. This presentation will present advancements in molecular monitoring techniques developed to enhance fisheries compliance and sustainability. Key topics will include the use of brine tanks and hopper sampling to improve species identification and traceability in fisheries management, alongside efforts to track the supply chain of liver oil from deepwater sharks. Additionally, ongoing efforts to establish forensic standards for DNA analysis will be discussed, focusing on meeting evidentiary requirements for regulatory enforcement. The integration of molecular monitoring methods into broader compliance frameworks will also be highlighted, demonstrating their potential to support sustainable fisheries practices globally. By addressing the intersection of science, policy, and enforcement, this presentation will highlight the crucial role of molecular monitoring in securing a sustainable future for global fisheries.