Peru has decided to move forward the start of its first anchovy season of the year due to the potential impact of this year’s El Nino.
The country’s production minister Piero Ghezzi announced this year’s season will start in April instead of May, as is usually the case, reported local newspaper Gestion.
A weather phenomenon that increases water temperatures, the El Nino could make anchovy migrate to the south of Peru or move to cooler, deeper waters.
“The fishing season will take place earlier so companies can catch higher volumes,” Ghezzi said.
Peru’s first anchovy season usually runs from May to July, while the second season tends to takes place from November through January.
The production ministry, Produce, has not yet set the quota for the first season, as it still awaits recommendations from the marine institute Imarpe.
Serious impact ahead?
Experts are divided over the potential impact that El Nino could have this year for Peru’s anchovy catches.
According to fishery export and oceanic scientist Luis Icochea, Peru could witness one of the strongest El Nino to date this year, potentially substantially impacting anchovy catches, and as a result the fishmeal industry. Icochea pointed to abnormally high temperatures so far this year, which he argues are reminiscent of 1997-98.
But others have different views. NOAA’s climate prediction center (NCEP) estimates that there is about a 50% chance of El Nino developing during the summer or fall.