The Evolution of Purse Seine Fishing Methods in Taiwan: Intertwine of Humans, Marine Species, and Multiple Scale Forces

Principle Investigator：Ying-Ching Wu

Wu’s research is focused on Taiwan's marine fisheries, particularly the highly commercialized mackerel industry on the country's northeast coast. Currently, Wu is specially engaged in the introduction and evolution of netting fishing methods in this fishery since the mid-twentieth century. Through an in-depth examination of this specific example, she hopes to investigate Taiwan's configuration as a "latecomer" country in the fisheries business.

To approach this research, Wu selected to investigate the essential technological features of human fishing activities, which are fishing gears and methods. Fishing gear and methods, in her opinion, are carriers of the co-evolutionary interaction between people, sea species, and other participants. Wu’s goal is to understand the connection between humans and marine life by researching changes in specific fishing practices, while also gaining insights into the different scales of power involved in fisheries growth.

This study aims to diverge from the mainstream narrative that simplifies marine fisheries as a means of human resource exploitation. Instead, it is dedicated to broadening the perspective on contemporary marine fisheries governance. One way to achieve this is by reconstructing the local context of Taiwan's marine fisheries. By delving into the specificities of Taiwan's marine fisheries, the study seeks to provide a more nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics and challenges involved in governing marine resources.