Work

Technological intensification and effort escalation in a small pelagic fishery: Fishing power increase along the Tanzanian coast

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Small pelagic fisheries along the Tanzanian coast have undergone rapid technological upgrading over the past decade, yet its implications for fishing effort remain poorly quantified. Using VIIRS night-time light data from 2014 to 2024 combined with long-term field observations, this study examines technological intensification and effort escalation in a shared coastal dagaa fishery. Offshore radiance increased significantly over the study period (β = 0.040, p < 0.001; Mann–Kendall τ = 0.855, p < 0.001), indicating a sustained increase in fishing-related night-time light intensity. The upward trend remained significant during 2017–2024 (β = 0.032, p = 0.001), suggesting continued growth beyond the initial electrification phase. Monthly generalized least-squares analysis confirmed that the long-term increasing trend persisted despite substantial seasonal and interannual variability. Temporary fluctuations, including those observed during 2019, did not alter the overall long-term trajectory. Field observations indicate a two-phase electrification process: initial adoption of modular LED systems followed by diffusion of high-intensity LED floodlights, accompanied by increases in both the number and brightness of lights per vessel. The temporal correspondence between technological upgrading and rising radiance supports the interpretation of satellite-detected light emissions as an indicator of increasing fishing power. By integrating remotely sensed radiance data with field-based knowledge, this study provides empirical evidence of technological intensification and increasing fishing power in a data-limited small pelagic fishery. The findings highlight the importance of accounting for technological transitions when interpreting fishing effort dynamics and demonstrate the value of satellite-derived night-time lights for monitoring technological change in small-scale fisheries.

Source: Fisheries Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.fishres.2026.107851

Author: Mariko Fujimoto

Institution: Mie University

Language: English

Topic: Impact of Light on Environment and Health

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life below water, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Climate action

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,680