Our commitment
to the sea
and to the future
At OP Mare Azzurro, we believe that every fishing activity represents a responsibility toward the sea, coastal communities, and future generations. Our producers’ organization, founded in 2022, operates in the Adriatic Sea through several associated fishing enterprises.
Our work stems from a clear vision: organising quality fishing while reducing the impact on the ecosystem. For this reason we adopt an integrated approach that combines:
- knowledge of the sea and its dynamics
- respect for the biological cycles of species
- use of selective and low-impact fishing gear
From our sea,
our future.
For our members, every trip out to sea is an opportunity to preserve the balance of the ecosystem and ensure the continuity of fishing.
Regulations
Directorate Decree No. 0547333 of 26 October 2022 concerning the recognition of the Producers’ Organization in the fisheries sector, named “Mare Azzurro Producers’ Organization of Adriatic Small Pelagics – consortium company with limited liability”, published in the Official Gazette of the Italian Republic No. 259 of 5 November 2022.
Members
OP Mare Azzurro coordinates and enhances the value of catches sourced from various fishing enterprises operating in the Adriatic Sea.
Nino Srl
Via Cappuccini, 6 – 76125 Trani (BT) p.iva: 07323830724
Fratelli Raffaele Rino & Gaetano S.N.C
Via Papa Giovanni XXIII , 22 Trani (BT) cod.fisc: 05858380727
Aldo S.r.l.
Via Salara, 4 – 66020 San Giovanni Teatino (CH) p.iva: 02120920687
Medusa & C S.n.c.
Via Massimo D’Azeglio, 41 – 91025 Marsala (TP) p.iva: 01536670811
Armamento Li Causi S.n.c.
Piazza Piemonte e Lombardo, 25/A – 91025 Marsala (TP) p.iva 01361960816
Pair pelagic trawling (PTM)
The fishing of anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus) and sardines (Sardina pilchardus) is carried out using pair pelagic trawling (PTM), a technique that involves two vessels jointly towing a net that operates in midwater.
Positive characteristics:
- The net operates in the water column without contacting the seabed, therefore it has no impact on the marine bottom.
- High efficiency in the capture of pelagic species (anchovies and sardines).
- Reduction of bycatch, thanks to selectivity linked to species behavior.
- A well-established and regulated technique, compliant with European regulations.
Longline fishing (palangaro)
Bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) and swordfish (Xiphias gladius) are caught using longline fishing (LLD), a traditional and highly selective technique based on a long main line from which spaced baited hooks are attached.
Positive characteristics:
- High selectivity of the catch (well-defined target species).
- Reduced impact on the seabed, as the gear does not come into contact with the substrate.
- Possibility of releasing non-target specimens.
- Higher quality of the catch, thanks to less invasive fishing techniques.
A value-driven supply chain
Thanks to the work of its member companies, OP Mare Azzurro is able to:
- guarantee the quality and freshness of the product
- operate in respect of marine ecosystems
- ensure a sustainable and traceable supply chain.