IFOP deploys two vessels to survey anchovy spawning stock in northern Chile amid severe El Niño
The Instituto de Fomento Pesquero (IFOP) is conducting the "2026 Assessment of the Anchovy Spawning Stock and Bio-Oceanographic Conditions between the Arica y Parinacota Region and the Antofagasta Region" scientific survey throughout October 2026, with two research vessels operating simultaneously.
The Instituto de Fomento Pesquero (IFOP) is carrying out a scientific survey entitled "2026 Assessment of the Anchovy Spawning Stock and Bio-Oceanographic Conditions between the Arica y Parinacota Region and the Antofagasta Region," covering the entire month of October 2026. The survey is being conducted against the backdrop of a severe El Niño event.
The survey is being undertaken simultaneously by two dedicated research vessels. The research vessel B/C Abate Molina is led by Dr. Jessica Bonicelli, project and cruise leader; the B/C Dra. Barbieri is led by cruise leader Hernán Reyes.
IFOP said the primary objective of this northern waters mission is to collect key biological and fisheries data on the fecundity and egg abundance of anchovy (Engraulis ringens), while conducting comprehensive monitoring of oceanographic conditions across the entire study area.
The survey's operational area extends from the Arica y Parinacota Region in the north to the Antofagasta Region in the south, with the survey period set for October 2026.