Introducing nearshore fish aggregation devices (FAD) to artisanal Persian Gulf fisheries: A preliminary study

Abstract

Nearshore Fish Aggregating Devices (FAD) have been identified as one of the most practical means for improving food security, in particular in developing and intermediate countries. However, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding the pros and cons of introducing nearshore FADs in shallow coastal waters. This is particularly the case in areas such as the Persian Gulf where traditional handline fisheries supply daily food for local coastal communities. In this context, experimental anchored nearshore FADs were deployed in the north of the Persian Gulf in order to offer a preliminary assessment regarding their possible impact in terms of both catch efficiency and ecological perspectives. CPUE, biodiversity and catch composition were compared at fishery sites with or without FADs between two fishing seasons in the Persian Gulf. Total catches were relatively well balanced between sites using nearshore FADs or without FADs, and between fishing seasons. In contrast, our analysis suggests that the fish species diversity was lower for FAD fishing operations, than for non-FAD fishing. The main differences in the fish assemblages caught between FAD and non-FAD fishing sites were mainly due to pelagic species (e.g. Scomberoides commersonnianus, Caranx sexfasciatus and Acanthopagrus latus), some of which are considered as endangered species (Scomberomorus commerson). Pelagic species were more abundant in non-FAD fishing operations, suggesting that anchored FADs used in these nearshore waters had an effect similar to that of artificial reefs, favouring the transfer of fishing effort from the pelagic to the benthic resources.