The BONUS INSPIRE Project conducts pilot ecosystem field surveys that help resolving the habitat requirements of different life-stages of the focal species by combined use of traditional methods and application of modern advanced analysis and modelling techniques.
The research is conducted in a matrix approach with four species specific case (cod, herring, sprat and flounder) and five research work-packages. The work packages deal with (i) habitat requirements and survival probability for different life stages, (ii) connectivity between habitat occupied in successive life stages, (iii) spatial scaling from local events to regional population dynamics, (iv) spatially explicit analytical stock assessments (including a comprehensive flatfish programme), and (v) ecosystem-based management and Marine Strategy Framework Directive indicators.
The partners of the project have long-standing expertise in designing and performing field surveys and carrying out research on spatio-temporal dynamics of the main commercial fish (cod, herring, sprat, and flatfishes) in the Baltic Sea.