The Argentine researcher Agustín Luzenti, former fellow of the Conicet, was recognized with the Early Career Researcher Award 2025 from the journal Fisheries Oceanography for a study in the Argentine Sea that applied active acoustics to “see” underwater without disturbing the marine fauna.
His work revealed that the expansion of the langostilla is modifying the structure of the anchovy schools in the San Matías (Río Negro) and Nuevo (Chubut) gulfs, a key species for the food chain of the Argentine Sea.
Sound technology applied to science
Unlike traditional methods, Luzenti used echosounders to emit sound pulses and analyze the echoes returned by marine organisms. This technique allows:
- Mapping marine life without capturing specimens.
- Obtaining data on the size, shape, and position of the schools.
- Characterizing the density and location of species in the water column.
The study included zigzag campaigns throughout all seasons of the year, successfully distinguishing the echoes of anchovy and langostilla.
Study results
- The anchovy schools showed defined edges and occupied different depth ranges.
- The langostilla formed massive and irregular swarms, concentrated in the upper half of the water column.
- Groupings were detected reaching 100 meters in depth and several nautical miles in extension.
This behavior alters the way fish group and has direct consequences on the feeding dynamics of top predators such as marine mammals and birds.
Ecological implications
The expansion of the langostilla in the last two decades raises questions about the balance of the pelagic ecosystem. Luzenti warned that the anchovy schools become larger and more diffuse in the presence of these crustaceans, which could affect the availability of food for species that depend on them.
The researcher noted: “There may be physical interference effects between individuals leading to greater laxity of the schools.” Therefore, he recommended maintaining scientific monitoring to protect the biodiversity of the Patagonian coast.
International recognition
The award given by Fisheries Oceanography highlights the methodological rigor and innovative nature of the study. The research was part of his doctoral thesis at the Cesimar-Conicet in Puerto Madryn, under the direction of Silvana Dans and Raúl González.
This recognition positions Argentine science in the global debate on the effects of climate change and the expansion of species in marine ecosystems.
Luzenti’s finding demonstrates how acoustic technology can revolutionize the study of the seas, offering precise information without altering natural habitats.
The expansion of the langostilla and its impact on the anchovy are warning signs about the changes the Argentine Sea is undergoing, reinforcing the need for constant monitoring to ensure the health of ecosystems and the sustainability of fishing.
