Discovery of Atlantic fish evidence of Cumbria's 'marine recovery'

The dead Atlantic Bluefin Tuna was found on a beach at Beck Foot, south of Silloth, on Friday, May 10. 

Amber Gould is a marine officer who focuses on restoration and engagement at Cumbria Wildlife Trust, and after learning of the discovery of the 'rare' fish explained why they have become less frequently spotted off the Cumbrian shores.

She said: "Bluefin tuna are incredible animals, and it’s certainly rare to see one in our region.

"They used to be quite common in the UK, but overfishing led to them vanishing, with no one sighting one here for over 60 years.

"Over the last decade, they’ve started to reappear; this is potentially due to increased and improved management of fisheries and setting quotas, and could also be caused by increased sea temperatures – both of which would lead to more of the tuna’s food sources existing here, and consequently, the tuna themselves making a return."

Amber also discussed the steps that should be taken to help boost the recovery of marine species such as the Atlantic Bluefin Tuna that had previously disappeared from Cumbrian shores and wider UK waters.

She said: "This slow increase of sightings in the UK are a hopeful sign for marine recovery and the resilience of marine creatures, though they’ll need our help to continue to recover.

"Choosing sustainable seafood options and shifting to sustainable fishing methods are both incredibly important steps that we can take to make a positive difference."