Abstract
Small-scale fisheries supplying tropical sea cucumbers to Asian markets frequently overharvest stocks, incurring unknown loss of economic value. An indication of such value loss can provide economi ...
Highlights
Unsustainable exploitation of marine resources decreases ocean biodiversity and undermines long-term utilization of living resources for a growing global human population (Worm and Branch 2012, Pitcher and Cheung 2013, FAO 2018)
In this study we provide a snapshot comparison of stocks of three characteristic sea cucumber species in two islands in the Western Indian Ocean: Zanzibar and Mayotte
Poor management of fisheries is coupled with loss of economic benefits worth approximately US$50 billion annually (World Bank 2009); and since 90% of fishers live in developing countries, the impact on the poor is especially critical (Mills et al 2011, Teh et al 2013)
Summary
Unsustainable exploitation of marine resources decreases ocean biodiversity and undermines long-term utilization of living resources for a growing global human population (Worm and Branch 2012, Pitcher and Cheung 2013, FAO 2018). Small-scale fisheries for tropical sea cucumbers (Holothuroidea: Aspidochirotida) have a long history and tradition in many nations (Conand 1989). Sea cucumber fisheries have a significant capacity to drive coastal economies (Toral-Granda et al 2008) and involve approximately 3 million people globally (Purcell et al 2013). Over 60 species of sea cucumber are targeted, ranging from high to low commercial value, depending on taste and consumers’ preferences in Asia, where the refined product is commonly sold as bêche-de-mer (Purcell 2014). Sea cucumber fisheries provide a fitting example of small-scale fisheries because they are widespread, multispecies, and generally involve artisanal methods with simple boats and cheap fishing gear (Uthicke and Conand 2005, Eriksson et al 2012a, 2015, Purcell et al 2013, Slater et al 2013)
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