MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falklands' “rockcod” project considered a success

The Vigo Cooperative of Vessel owners approved favourably the presentation of the “Rockcod Project”, a two year scientific research on the commercial potential for rockcod, a by catch in the Falkland Islands and South Atlantic fisheries.

According to Europa Press the survey was done in the framework of a Research and Technological Development Program sponsored and financed by the European Union.

Apparently rockcod cooked in different ways underwent several tasting trials by Spanish experts in Vigo and was most successful.

"The presentation surpassed all expectations", said Edelmiro Ulloa, technical secretary of the cooperative.

Apparently the experimental 80 tons which were introduced originally to the market a few months ago have now turned into 800 with the main markets in Asturias, Cantabria and several Baltic countries. Prices are also considered accessible which has made market access more feasible.

However this is not the case in Galicia where fisheries plants do not work with this species and therefore limits its access.

"What's important is that there are by catches which can be recovered" such is the case with rockcod and this "should help look into other species currently discarded that could also become commercial alternatives", said Mr. Ulloa.