Aerial Monitoring of Large Pelagic species and Marine Mammals in the Golf of Lion

Between 2000 and 2003, and since 2009, Ifremer has been conducting aerial surveys of large pelagic species (bluefin tuna) and marine mammals in the Golf of Lion. 4 pre-established routes are chosen randomly for each flight. Two scientists board a place and detect shoals of Bluefin tuna and marine mammals, which they observe either side of the plane. Data collected includes: time, GPS position and detection characteristics (shoal size, number of individuals, size of individuals). An abundance indicator is drawn up from this information.