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https://www.euronews.com/green/2024/04/30/is-hakes-remarkable-recovery-in-the-atlantic-a-sign-of-hope-for-our-oceans>
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The hake population in the waters of Northwestern Europe has recovered
spectacularly over the past 20 years. What's behind this remarkable rebound and
how might this success story be repeated elsewhere?
You would be forgiven for assuming that the secluded fishing villages of
Galicia in northern Spain are not a hive of activity at 02:00 am, but you would
be wrong.
Boasting over 1,600 kilometres of coastline, this autonomous region is renowned
for its fish dishes. Dock workers here at the Port of Celeiro work throughout
the night, unloading shipments of fresh catch before transporting them to
busting markets nearby.
Thanks to its privileged geographical position in the northwestern corner of
Spain, Galicia provides unparalleled access to the Atlantic Ocean and is a
seafood lover's paradise.
With its flakey texture, the mild-tasting hake is a staple in Galician cuisine
and the backbone of the local economy.
“This fish is incredibly versatile - you can prepare it in almost any way you
can think of,”said Domingo Alló Puñal, a chef who prides himself on bringing
the best of Celeiro's marketplace crustaceans and fish to the table at Boa
Vista restaurant.
“If the hake fishery closed down, we would all be out of work. We all depend on
hake,” confessed José Luis Fernández Louzao, a local chief mate.
However, Galicia has faced this problem before. Not so long ago, this
all-important species almost disappeared from the Atlantic Ocean, only for
stocks to rebound later, stronger than ever."
Via Esther Schindler.
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
