BioRestore®

The first phase of the BioRestore® method involves capturing post-larvae of animals seeking nursery grounds using light traps set up at night around the time of the new moon. Called CARE©, this specialized, patented fishing device was designed by Ecocean to enable the non-destructive capture of live post-larvae of fish and marine invertebrates. This step is generally carried out by small-scale fishermen who are partners in the project.

Once harvested, these post-larvae are acclimated in an aquaculture laboratory, where they will remain for several months. This stage involves rearing the animals according to a non-domestication protocol under optimal conditions and growing them to a size known as the "refuge" stage. This size, generally corresponding to the juvenile stage, is defined as between 7 and 10 cm and marks the point at which the animals have crossed a critical threshold of vulnerability. The scientific community then assesses that they have a high probability of reaching sexual maturity in the wild, thereby extending the impact of their restocking over several generations.  

A specific protocol has been established to maximize the animals’ survival and ensure the success of the final stage of the process: restocking.      

This operation, which takes 48 hours, aims to minimize stress on the juveniles as they are transferred from the rearing tanks to their natural habitat. To achieve this, specially designed acclimatization bells provide a gradual transition: installed on a small coastal seabed, they protect the juveniles from predators while allowing them to become accustomed to their new environment. After 24 hours under protection, once the juveniles have acclimatized and recovered from transport, the bells are opened so they can gradually return to their natural environment.