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Seychelles, Mauritius and Rodrigues join hands to protect octopuses
Work is underway to study octopuses in the Seychelles’ and Mauritian waters to identify how many species there are, the total number and their sizes and the information will be used to regulate the fishing of the species.
To help with the project, a workshop was organised on Tuesday, in partnership with the UNDP, Mauritius and the island of Rodrigues in which local fishermen exchanged ideas and looked for ways to better regulate the fishing of octopus in Seychelles, as has been done in Rodrigues.
“Today is a historic moment for the region, as we work together to share ideas, techniques and successes for the benefit of one another,” the chief executive of the Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA), Nichol Elizabeth, told the Seychelles News Agency.
He said that managing local fisheries is something very important when it comes to encouraging sustainability and that is why work is being done with the octopus, to ensure that it is being well harvested and not in any danger.
The species is caught in different ways and comes with a high cost. The fishing of octopus is restricted or regulated in Rodrigues but not in the Seychelles.
Seychelles also has a number of fisheries management plans for sustainable fishing of some species and these include sea cucumber, which is allowed to be caught on a seasonal basis.
The project will reportedly also include genetic studies. “Other countries will be able to see if they share some of the same species of octopus in their waters and provide a better understanding of the species,” Elizabeth said.
The workshop was part of the UNDP Ecofish project, which aims to support the artisanal fishing community for the sustainable management of coastal fisheries and to improve their economic situation.
“The Ecofish project also contributes to ensuring greater food security and generates inclusive growth and promotes creation of employment,” said the UNDP resident representative, Amanda Serumaga.
She added that the workshop held in Seychelles is important as it also promotes more cooperation between the two countries.
Original article at Seychelles News Agency
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The information and opinions expressed in our published works are those of authors/sources believed to be reliable. NewsMoris makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information expressed.
