The BELAS project represents a cutting-edge endeavor that integrates state-of-the-art methodology and innovative concepts in behavioral and conservation science to enhance the sustainability of marine resources. This project aligns perfectly with thematic priority #6 of the Spanish Plan for Scientific and Technical Research and Innovation (PEICTI) 2021-2023, focusing on food security, bioeconomy, natural resources, and the environment.

At its core, BELAS aims to address key gaps in understanding fish behavior and its implications for conservation strategies. By incorporating individual variation and social behavior into conservation efforts, BELAS directly contributes to global agendas such as the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 14.2 and SDG 14.5. These goals emphasize the importance of sustainably managing and protecting marine ecosystems, including through the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs).

The project’s hypotheses are grounded in the recognition that traditional single-species management strategies have not fully addressed the complex challenges facing fish populations, particularly in the face of environmental change and increasing anthropogenic pressures. By focusing on individual-level variation in behavior and social interactions, BELAS aims to fill critical gaps in our understanding of fish ecology and conservation.

One key hypothesis of BELAS is that individual variation in behavior is widespread in fish populations and plays a crucial role in ecological and evolutionary processes. By studying behavior at multiple temporal and spatial scales, the project seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms driving population dynamics and ecosystem function.

Furthermore, BELAS addresses the need to move beyond traditional approaches to fish behavior research, which often focus on population-level averages and overlook individual-level variation and social dynamics. By employing innovative methodologies, including high-resolution telemetry and multiscale analyses, BELAS aims to provide unprecedented insights into the behavioral complexity of fish populations.

In terms of expected contributions, BELAS will provide critical knowledge about the spatial and social behavior of coastal elasmobranchs in Galicia, a region with significant economic dependence on marine resources. By understanding the movement patterns and social dynamics of key species, the project aims to inform more effective conservation and management strategies, ultimately contributing to the sustainable use of natural resources and food security.

Overall, BELAS represents a pioneering effort to bridge the gap between behavior research and conservation practice, with the potential to transform our understanding of fish ecology and inform more effective management strategies in the face of environmental change.