The European Tracking Network (ETN) equips fish and other aquatic animals with electronic tags. Many fish migrate over long distances between different habitats (for example, between freshwater and marine environments) and across national borders. This European network promotes collaboration in data collection and the sharing of research infrastructure, thereby strengthening policy, scientific research, and nature conservation at the European level. The knowledge generated is essential for the protection and conservation of aquatic species.
DonATE To Support The ETN scientists In tagging Fish
Researchers within the European Tracking Network (ETN) use telemetry tags to study fish and gain a better understanding of their life cycles and movements. This research has already provided valuable insights into fish behaviour, contributing to improved management and conservation of fish populations.
Through The Sea as a Good Cause, we aim to inspire and support the next generation of marine scientists by offering young researchers the opportunity to attend relevant scientific conferences and training courses in fish telemetry. Climate change, overfishing, illegal fishing, and other human pressures pose serious threats to fish populations. To address these challenges, we must invest in the scientists of tomorrow and encourage research that advances our knowledge and contributes to a more sustainable future for aquatic biodiversity.
Our contribution: awarding ETN participation grants.
Your donation helps young researchers in fish telemetry expand their scientific knowledge, build international networks, and further develop their research careers.
You can make a donation through our webshop or by transferring your contribution to the philanthropic account of the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ) IBAN: BE70 0017 1687 3425, reference 'Donation for ETN'. Donations of €40 or more per calendar year are tax-deductible (subject to Belgian tax regulations). Interested in becoming a sponsor? We'd be delighted to discuss the possibilities with you. Please contact us at filantropie@vliz.be.
ETN Participation Grants
International Conference on Fish Telemetry (ICFT), June 2025, Michigan, USA:
- Martina Martorell Barceló (Institute of Marine Research, Norway) studies variation in fish behaviour and how this influences their vulnerability to natural predators and fishing.
- Miguel Angel Cortes Pujol (Institute of Agrifood Research and Training of the Balearic Islands (IRFAP), Spain) investigates the influence of social interactions and density-dependent factors on the spatial behaviour of coastal fish, using acoustic telemetry as his primary research tool.
The European Tracking Network (ETN) is an endorsed project within the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. More information at oceandecade.org.