Sustainable Fisheries Research Articles

ECOSYSTEM INDICATORS TO ASSESS THE SUSTAINABILITY OF MULTISPECIFIC ARTISANAL FISHERIES IN FACE OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES IN THE AMAZON BASIN SOUTH

The construction of hydroelectric dams causes several impacts on the aquatic environment and affects its structure and functions with direct consequences for the provision of ecosystem services. Despite its importance, since 1970, fisheries in the Amazon region, especially small-scale artisanal fisheries practiced by traditional populations, have been facing serious problems arising from human and climatic actions. In this study, we evaluated the impacts of dam construction and the environmental responses on fisheries production and fishing sustainability indexes in the Madeira River, which is the largest tributary of the Amazon River, between 2000 and 2019. Fisheries landing data in the city of Porto Velho and large-scale environmental variables were collected for each of the years in the period and were compared using general linear models. We found that dams, as well as changes in hydrological levels, affect fisheries production. The sustainability indexes showed a decline after the completion of the two dams. Moreover, catch-per-unit-of-effort showed a significant decline after the implementation of the dam. We therefore highlight the importance of understanding the factors that affect the sustainability of fisheries in large rivers in order to mitigate the impacts of large dams and other anthropogenic actions.

Ecosystem services assessment of Beledanga oxbow lake in the Gangetic plains: pathways to sustainable conservation

Oxbow lakes, formed from abandoned river meanders, are unique wetlands that play a crucial role in supporting aquatic biodiversity and sustaining local communities through their ecosystem services. This study focuses on the Beledanga oxbow lake, highlighting its ecosystem services and the critical role of hydrological connectivity with the adjacent river for maintaining ecological functionality and sustainability. Using the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment framework, the study assessed provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting services through field surveys, stakeholder consultations, and secondary data analysis. Results show that the lake provides essential provisioning services, such as fisheries and irrigation, which support local food security and income generation. It also plays a role in regulating services like water management and carbon sequestration, while its biodiversity underpins vital ecological functions, including nutrient cycling and habitat provision. However, challenges such as seasonal water scarcity and macrophyte infestation threaten the lake's productivity and connectivity with the river. The study emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts involving local stakeholders to devise water management strategies and remove macrophytes, utilizing government initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) for funding. Additionally, the establishment of robust monitoring systems for sustainable fisheries management and incentive programs for conservation efforts are recommended. The research highlights the importance of hydrological connectivity in sustaining the lake's ecosystem services and enhancing biodiversity. By integrating local knowledge and stakeholder engagement, this study provides valuable insights into the sustainable management of oxbow lakes and highlights the broader significance of river-oxbow lake connectivity in wetland conservation efforts. The findings also have implications for broader wetland conservation policies in similar ecosystems.

Discovering the Bathylithology and Bioengineering Organisms of the Punta Coles Marine Natural Reserve, Moquegua, Peru

The Punta Coles Natural Reserve (PCNR), located on the southern coast of the province of Ilo, Moquegua Region, Peru, houses an area rich in marine biodiversity which is composed of natural banks of benthic invertebrates, which constitute the potential and dynamic fishery of commercial interest for artisanal fishermen that impact the area. To mitigate this impact, all stakeholders need to know, understand, value, and balance the dependence of benthic biodiversity with the ecosystem for its preservation and the promotion of sustainable fishing. Along these lines, the components studied are bathymetry, lithology, and the tapestry of bioengineers that make up the reserve’s seabed. Mapping of the complexity of the benthic habitat of the seabed was developed on the basis of an integrated analysis of multibeam bathymetric data, geoscientific information associated with the antecedents of benthic biodiversity of the PCNR, sediment maps of the seabed, subtidal sedimentological texture, and photographic records. The characterization and granulometry of the sediments that make up the PCNR were determined according to the Udden–Wentworth classification criterion (Φ). The utility of the GPSMAP 178C multibeam echosounder for the interpretation of seabed sediments stands out. The kriging interpolation method was used to extrapolate the characteristics of the benthic habitat, which is suitable for large areas of the sea. As a result, three habitats were derived and mapped, and three structures (bioengineers), namely, “subtidal kelps” (Lessonia trabeculata), “mussels” (Aulacomya atra), and “red sea squirt” (Pyura chilensis), were associated mainly with sedimentary rock habitats and mixed substrates. In the sand substrate, these algae were found to a lesser extent. The results show that this study is a conceptual model that summarizes the understanding of ecology and prospects for the sustainability of profitable, ecoefficient fishing activities in the Moquegua Region, Peru.

Effects of Subacute Ammonia Nitrogen Stress on the Growth, Antioxidant Capability, and Immunity of Blunt Snout Bream (Megalobrama amblycephala) Juveniles

To investigate the effects of subacute ammonia nitrogen stress on the growth, antioxidant capacity, and innate immunity of juvenile blunt snout bream (Megalobrama ambrycyphala), a sample of fish (average body weight 6.55 ± 0.24 g) was divided into three groups: a control group (G1), a 10% LC50 ammonia nitrogen stress group (G2), and a 20% LC50 ammonia nitrogen stress group (G3). The fish in G1 were reared in tap water with aeration. The fish in G2 were reared in water with 6.82 mg/L ammonium chloride at 10% LC50. The fish in G3 were reared in water with 13.64 mg/L ammonium chloride at 20% LC50. The feeding period was 4 weeks. Then, the growth, antioxidant, and immune response parameters of the fish were analyzed. The results showed that the median lethal concentration (LC50) of the ammonia nitrogen solution for blunt snout bream juveniles at 96 h was 68.18 mg/L. The final body weight, weight gain, specific growth rate (SGR), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), albumin, globulin, acid phosphatase (ACP), and alkaline phosphatase (AKP) of fish in the stress groups were significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.05); however, the MDA content of fish in the control group was significantly lower than that of those in the stress groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the relative expression levels of the GHRa, GHRb, IGF1, and IGF2 genes in the muscles of fish in the stress groups were significantly downregulated compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The relative expression levels of the SOD, CAT, Leap1, and Leap2 genes in the liver of fish in the stress groups were significantly lower than those in fish in the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, subacute ammonia nitrogen stress inhibited growth performance and decreased the antioxidant capacity and immunity of blunt snout bream.

Status of fishery resource management through an ecosystem approach in the several fishery management models in the Kampar River, Riau Province, Indonesia

The Kampar River's high fish diversity dramatically benefits the local community. However, overfishing threatens the river's fishery resources. Urgent and concerted management efforts, including local wisdom implementation, are crucial to address this pressing issue. Law Number 45 of 2009 concerning Fisheries mandates sustainable fishery resource management, primarily through an ecosystem-based approach. From January to June 2024, researchers conducted a study in the Kampar River area to assess the status of ecosystem-based fishery resource management across several management models. The research combined qualitative and quantitative methods, using purposive sampling to select 5-10 participants from each village. Following guidelines from the Directorate of Fish Resources, the study developed indicators for each domain and converted them into composite indicators using the 'flag modeling' technique. Data analysis showed that the Lubuk Larangan management model achieved the highest ecosystem-based fishery resource status, scoring 13,374 points (green). The individual auction system, communal auction system, and government regulations scored 13,168, 13,120, and 10,899 points respectively (yellow). These results highlight the effectiveness of local wisdom-based approaches in sustainable fishery resource management for the Kampar River ecosystem.

Elasmobranch Conservation in India: Assessing Threats and Strategies for Sustainable Management

Elasmobranchs, a group that includes sharks, rays, and skates, play a crucial role in marine ecosystems as apex predators and benthic regulators. However, they face significant threats that jeopardize their populations and overall biodiversity. Major threats include overfishing, bycatch, habitat degradation, pollution, and climate change. Overfishing, driven by high demand for shark fins and ray gills, alongside unregulated fishing practices, has led to drastic declines in many species. Bycatch in commercial fisheries further exacerbates their vulnerability. Additionally, habitat destruction due to coastal development and pollution impacts their breeding and feeding grounds. Climate change contributes to shifts in ocean temperature and acidity, affecting elasmobranch physiology and distribution. Effective conservation strategies are essential to address these threats and ensure the sustainability of elasmobranch populations. Key measures include implementing and enforcing sustainable fishing practices, creating marine protected areas, reducing bycatch through improved fishing gear, and enhancing global cooperation for conservation efforts. Addressing these threats requires a multifaceted approach involving scientists, policymakers, and local communities to safeguard the future of elasmobranch species and maintain the health of marine ecosystems.

A Comprehensive Study on Sustainable Fisheries and Environmental Factors in an Eastern Mediterranean Freshwater Lake

It was aimed to determine the fishery potential of a freshwater lake in the Eastern Mediterranean where fishing is prohibited, however considered to be reopened for fishing activities. Kocagöl is located on the western part of the Turkish Mediterranean coast. Fisheries is important for the local people for livelihood. Especially, the Mugilid catch is important for local Mediterranean small-scale fishermen. Fishery related parameters (Catch per Unit Effort, growth, mortality, exploitation rate, reference points), biomass, physical (temperature, salinity, pH, turbidity and dissolved oxygen) and chemical (nitrite nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, ammonium nitrogen and total phosphorus) water parameters were determined. A generalized linear model was established between catch and physical environmental parameters. In general, exploitation rates of the main target, Mugilidae, species are at safe levels. However, selectivity and Lopt parameters showed that the mesh sizes should be increased to provide more sustainable fishery in the area. A controlled fishing practice in this fragile and sensitive area will constitute an environment for the sustainable use of fishery resources in the region. According to results, limit reference points are better for fisheries management plans. This study is an example for eastern Mediterranean freshwater fishery management regulations.

Contribution of fish to food and nutrition security in Southern Africa: challenges and opportunities in fish production.

This study investigated the role of fish in addressing food and nutrition security challenges in Southern Africa, focusing on 10 countries including Angola, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Eswatini, and South Africa. It examined the current state of food and nutrition security, fish production, and fish consumption patterns. Additionally, the study investigated the challenges and opportunities to enhance fish production in these countries thereby enhancing food and nutrition security. The findings revealed persistent challenges such as a high prevalence of food insecurity and malnutrition throughout the region. Fish production is hindered by overexploitation of fishery resources, inadequate fisheries management, susceptibility to climate-related shocks, limited investments in aquaculture, and inadequate access to input supplies such as quality fish seed and feed. Despite these obstacles, opportunities exist to promote sustainable fish production to enhance food security and nutrition. Countries endowed with extensive coastlines and inland waters exhibit significant potential for fishery development, while landlocked nations are increasingly exploring aquaculture as a viable solution. Addressing the challenges in fish production and capitalizing on opportunities requires comprehensive governance, technological innovation, policy interventions, and investment to ensure the sustainability and resilience of the fisheries and aquaculture industries in the region.

Exploring changes in epibenthic food web structure after implementation of a water-sediment regulation scheme

The water-sediment regulation scheme (WSRS) in the Yellow River is a large-scale initiative to artificially regulate the flow of sediment to the sea, thereby increasing the flood-carrying capacity of the riverbed and reservoirs. Currently, systematic studies on ecological impacts of WSRS at ecosystem-level are still insufficient. This limitation hampers the pursuit of a ‘green’, healthy, ecosystem and sustainable fisheries. This study constructed the topological structure of food webs in the Yellow River Estuary (YRE) before, during, and after implementation of the WSRS, analyzing changes in food web complexity and key species based on fishery independent data collected in June, July, and August 2023. The results showed decreases from 59 to 52 in the number of trophic species, and from 539 to 395 in the number of feeding relationships after WSRS implementation. Increased node density, decreased link density, and decreased structural complexity index also indicated a simplification of the YRE food web structure after WSRS implementation. The relatively low value of the characteristic path length indicated that the YRE food web has high connectivity with short path lengths of trophic interaction. Based on the ranking of various topological indices, Japanese seabass (Lateolabrax japonicas) and mantis shrimp (Oratosquilla oratoria) persisted as the key species. Our research revealed limited potential ecological effects that WSRS may have on the YRE food web over a short period. The effects did not persist, and omnivorous key species were identified as being critical in contributing to overall system resilience. These omnivores with high complexity, connectivity and low path lengths allowed the food web to quickly dissipate the exogenous disruption from the WSRS. This provides a theoretical basis for assessing the future ecological health and scientific management of YRE fisheries and similar large estuaries for which sediment transport mitigation is under consideration.

A multimethod approach to assess marine recreational fishing activity in a Mediterranean area: A case study of the Balagne region (Corsica, France)

AbstractObjectiveRecreational fishing is a growing concern in the management of fishery resources given its economic impact, the number of people involved, and the magnitude of catches. Despite its significant impact on marine resources and ecosystems, recreational fishing has received less attention in research than commercial fishing.MethodsThis study focuses on marine recreational fishing in Balagne (Corsica, France, northwestern Mediterranean). It presents, for the first time in this region, valuable data on the population size of recreational fishers; their sociological profiles; fishing habits; and, specifically, catch data related to boat fishing.ResultThrough an extensive telephone survey involving 387 households, we estimated that recreational fishers constitutes 10.2% of the population, with the majority being men (84.84%). The average age varies significantly based on the type of fishing practiced: 38.4 years for spearfishing, 50.2 years for shore fishing, and 56.4 years for boat fishing. Additionally, the study found that shore fishers declare practicing no‐kill fishing more frequently than do boat fishers (90.00% and 56.67%, respectively). Photographic protocol, fishing logbooks, and boarding provided data on catch composition and fishing characteristics. In the case of boat fishers, catches per unit of effort, estimated from boarding data, were found to be 1.03 ± 1.51 individuals/h/fisher and 222.32 ± 318.94 g/h/fisher. Despite the great diversity among the species caught (49 species), Comber Serranus cabrilla, Blackspot Seabream Pagellus bogaraveo, Black Seabream Spondyliosoma cantharus, and Painted Comber Serranus scriba are overly represented in number among the species of marine fish caught by boat fishers and Common Dentex Dentex dentex, Greater Amberjack Seriola dumerili, Dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus, and Bluefin Tuna Thunnus thynnus are overly represented in weight. Among all individuals caught and measured, about one out of two individuals (48.97% of catches) does not reach the legal size.ConclusionThis study reveals the need to establish monitoring, surveillance, and control programs to ensure the sustainability of fish stocks and fisheries, including recreational fisheries.

Assessment of River Ecological Health Status and Interbasin Water Transfer Potential: Case study of Luapula River Basin in Zambia

Water transfer is one mechanism for meeting increasing water demand in water-stressed areas. However, moving water from one area to another often disturbs the ecosystem including the fisheries biodiversity and growth patterns. Thus, when contemplating water transfer, baseline information on the status of the fisheries biodiversity and condition is cardinal for sustainable fisheries management during and after water transfer implementation. This work aimed at investigating the current fisheries condition (biodiversity, weight length relationship and condition factor) of the Luapula River Basin (LRB) to explore potential and implications for future interbasin water transfer on the basin fisheries. The fishes were sampled during the 2022/2023 dry and wet season at selected sites in LRB. Biodiversity indices, fish weight/length relationship and condition factor were used to describe the fish biodiversity, growth patterns and wellbeing which described the status of the aquatic condition of the donor basin. Species Richness, Shannon Diversity Index, Simpson Index and Evenness ranged between 0.8902 to 1.664, 0.9167 to 2.1437, 0.4416 to 0.8683 and 0.4172 to 0.8940 respectively. The growth coefficient (b) ranged from 1.223 to 3.755 indicating negative and positive allometric growth. The condition factor ranged between 0.692 and 2.218. Thus, it can be said that the LRB has good fish biodiversity albeit with some species showing dominance, normal growth pattern and wellbeing showing bias towards undisturbed habitats and physiological state. As such, this status quo of LRB needs to be maintained prior to, during and after IBWT implementation.

European anchovy's abundance, more affected by climatic conditions than fishing activities in the northwest African waters.

The marine waters off the coast of northwest Africa are known for being highly productive upwelling regions in the Eastern Atlantic Ocean. The present study evaluated the combined effects of climate change and sustainable fishing levels on the long-term sustainability of European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus), a target pelagic species found along the West African coastal waters. The present study used survey biomass time series from survey vessels and species catch time series from commercial fisheries operating in the region. Hence, we investigated the relationship between fishing dynamics and environmental factors. The status of anchovy stock was determined by analyzing changes in different initial depletion rates using a state-space Bayesian surplus production model. We used Principal component analysis to identify the essential environmental data set, while Generalized Additive Models (GAM) were employed to determine the influence of the environment on fisheries. The stock assessment model revealed that fishing intensity did not affect the abundance of anchovy in the region even when tested under different biomass depletion scenarios. However, by employing GAMs, the research assessed the impact of environmental variables on fish biomass, indicating that sea surface temperature (SST) significantly influences anchovy abundance in the region. The latitudinal gradient also had a significant influence on this species' abundance. These findings underscore the vulnerability of the small-scale fisheries sector in the tropical upwelling zone to climate change. The study concludes that even in the face of potential negative impacts from environmental factors, optimizing fishing methods can contribute to the preservation of pelagic resources in the region. It emphasizes the importance of managing fishery resources in a sustainable, economically viable, and socially acceptable way.

The ecological status and fisheries of Malampaya Sound, northwestern Palawan, Philippines

A review of the state of the marine ecosystem and fisheries of Malampaya Sound, Palawan was undertaken. A total of 30 papers relevant to the topic were selected and reviewed. The results showed that the rich and diverse coastal waters of Malampaya Sound harbor 8 species of seagrasses, 9 species of mangroves, 262 species of fish, and various species of corals and macroinvertebrates including the rare giant clams Tridacna spp. The Sound plays a vital role in the local economy because the local community uses it for subsistence fishing and as a source of livelihood. It is so productive that it was termed the “fishbowl of the country” because it provides a substantial contribution to the country’s fishery sector and economy. However, degradation continuously threatens it, most of which are interrelated anthropogenic issues. The declining environmental condition of the area prompted the government to close it for commercial fishing in the 1970s. Several conservation measures have been undertaken since then to preserve its remaining resources, including its declaration as a protected landscape and seascape in 2000. Despite this, if not for a slight improvement, the condition has worsened. So far, only the mangrove ecosystem has dramatically improved. Seagrass and coral reefs are still in poor to fair condition. A collective effort by the community and government agencies, with the support of the academe and non-government organizations, coupled with strict enforcement of existing laws, income diversification for the locals, monitoring of environmental parameters, and implementation of sustainable fishing practices, is necessary to achieve sustainable use of the area.

Fish Kills Related to Harmful Algal Bloom Events in Southeast Asia

Fish kills in Southeast Asia are frequently associated with harmful algal blooms (HABs) and cause significant ecological and economic impacts and can have negative effects on the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems and the fisheries they support. This paper serves as a review of fish-kill events with focus on those related to HABs within the region. It examines the causative algal species, known mechanisms of fish mortality, and socio-economic consequences in order to better understand and manage this threat to sustainable fisheries. Fish kills have been reported across multiple countries within Southeast Asia, with notable hotspots in the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand. The common harmful microalgal species span a diverse group including dinoflagellates (Karenia spp., Karlodinium spp., Margalefidinium polykrikoides, Noctiluca scintillans), raphidophytes (Chattonella spp.), diatoms (Skeletonema spp. and Chaetoceros spp.), and cyanobacteria (Trichodesmium spp.). These microalgae lead to fish kills through mechanisms such as hypoxia, physical gill damage, and ichthyotoxin production. Freshwater fish kills linked to HABs have also been documented for the Philippines, but there is no or limited information for the region. Our review highlights the widespread and recurring nature of fish kills, their impact on fisheries and aquaculture, and challenges in managing and mitigating their effects. There are efforts at enhancing management and mitigation using clay and early warning systems. However, it is essential to further improve monitoring efforts, the development and deployment of early warning systems, and viable and holistic mitigation strategies to protect the region’s aquatic resources and dependent communities, especially as aquaculture and coastal development are increasing concurrent with a changing climate that can exacerbate the risks of fish kills and HABs in Southeast Asia.

Flume tank trials to investigate the snagging of towed demersal fishing gears on boulders

The snagging of towed demersal fishing gears on seabed features and obstructions can have economic, safety, ecological and environmental consequences. Nevertheless, very little is known about the snagging process, the extent to which it occurs and how best to mitigate it. Here we present the results of a systematic flume tank study to investigate which gear-types are more likely to snag on boulders, which part of a given gear snagging is more likely to occur, and what are the characteristic features of the boulders shapes and size that increase the likelihood of snagging. As a case study we focus on gears that are typical of Jammerbugt, Denmark and show that tickler chain beam trawls are more likely to snag, while the snagging likelihood of the otter trawl, Danish seine and chain mat beam trawl are similar. Our approach and the methodology we develop will help design safer and more sustainable gears that interact less with the seabeds habitats and features. They will provide insights as to which gears can be used on which fishing grounds, contribute to a reduction of abandoned, lost and discarded fishing gears (ALDFG), improve fisher safety, and help fisheries managers develop measures that will promote more environmentally friendly and sustainable fisheries.

Sustained swimming and improvements in anti-oxidative stress responses in matrinxa (Brycon amazonicus) exposed to environmental nitrite.

Nitrite is usual in water of intensive rearing systems. Considering its oxidative harmful potential, it was selected to challenge matrinxa Brycon amazonicus reared in sustained swimming (SS) (with flowing water adjusted to speed at 1.0 BL seg-1 (long-duration aerobic metabolic characteristic) and evaluate any beneficial effect of such rearing system to enhance the fish potential to cope with this oxidant stressor in fish farmings. Some parameters of oxidative stress, intermediary metabolism and hematometry were measured in matrinxa adapted to SS and exposed to the highest environmental nitrite concentration allowed by law. The experiments were performed in two steps. At first, fish were adapted to exercise under SS for 90 days. Subsequently, adapted fish were exposed to environmental nitrite (1.0 mg L-1) for 24h in order to evaluate their physiological responses. The results were compared with fish let in the same environment but from motionless water. Glycogen, glucose, pyruvate, lactate, free amino acids and ammonia were quantified in liver, plasma and muscle. Lipid peroxidation (LPO), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) were assayed in liver and white muscle. Hematometry data were obtained using standard procedures. Sustained swimming practice enhance the hematological capacity of fish, improving oxidative metabolic responses; changing the ability to mobilize carbohydrates for energy purposes; facilitating the energy-dependent detoxification process; and minimizing the mobilization of amino acids for this purpose. In conclusion, the potential of matrinxa adapted to SS to cope with oxidative stress caused by environmental nitrite was enhanced.

Analysis of value chain of the artisanal sea urchin fishery of Baja California, México

The value chain analysis provides a comprehensive perspective about fisheries production and key actors involved. This information is relevant for small-scale fisheries and highlights their socioeconomic contribution. Mexico is ranks fifth among the sea urchin exporting countries. In Baja California, Mexico, this fishery is one of the main small-scale fisheries in due to its high commercial value as well as its valuable source of employment and social benefits to communities. However, there is a lack study about commercial process. For an understanding of the socioeconomic dynamics surrounding the activity, this paper aim was analyzed the value chain of the sea urchin fishery through a structural mapping, identified the key-actors and the links among them. Data come from official records and interviews with producers, process plant administrators, and government staff. We identified three nodes and seven production routes and their price variations along the route, through which producers release the captured sea urchin roes to reach the market. Through the value chain, women participation in post-capture activities and their role as leaders in fishing organizations stands out. Relationships within and between nodes primarily informal with limitations for negotiation. Collaboration agreements between producers and the government need to be permanent and promote cooperation among all stakeholders to improve management strategies. Finally, it is suggested that government actions be focused on ensuring compliance with fishing regulations, promoting capability building, and encouraging financial investment to enhance the sustainability of the sea urchin fishery.

Toward Sustainable Fisheries: Assessing Catch per Unit Effort, Retained Bycatch, and Discard Ratios in the Red Sea Shrimp Trawl Fishery of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Shrimp trawl fishery is of significant importance in Saudi Arabia’s marine capture fishery sector. Al Qunfudhah and Jizan are the only ports along the southern Saudi Arabian coast of the Red Sea dedicated to shrimp fishing. This study evaluates the catch per unit effort (CPUE) of targeted shrimp species along with the associated retained bycatch and discard ratios across these two trawling locations. Using daily catch data from commercial shrimp trawlers specific to each port’s vessel type, this research provides the first comprehensive analysis of CPUE dynamics and fishing practices in these fishing grounds. The CPUE of target shrimps exhibited a wide range (0.01 kg h−1 to 13.08 kg h−1) with an overall mean of 1.37 ± 0.143 kg h−1. Penaeus semisulcatus emerged as the predominant species (mean CPUE: 3.77 ± 0.28 kg h−1), followed by Metapenaeus monoceros (mean CPUE: 0.1 ± 0.02 kg h−1). Significant differences in CPUE were observed among species, including P. semisulcatus, Penaeus hathor, and Penaeus pulchricaudatus, although CPUE differences between the two fishing grounds were minor, likely due to their proximity and similar environmental conditions. The bycatch analysis identified a total of 72 species across 28 families, with significant variation in the relative ratios. Sepiidae species constituted 31.8% of the total bycatch, followed by Portunidae species (24.8%). Discard patterns also varied, with Gerres oyena being the most commonly discarded species (mean discard ratio: 11.37% ± 1.89%), followed by Equulites klunzingeri (mean discard ratio: 8.76% ± 2.00%). While CPUE differences between Al Qunfudhah and Jizan were modest, this study highlights the need for expanded spatial and temporal coverage to enhance future analyses. These findings underscore the importance of integrated data for a comprehensive understanding of fishing effort and bycatch dynamics, supporting sustainable fisheries management in the Red Sea. By addressing bycatch and discard practices, this research contributes to efforts to mitigate ecological impacts and promote sustainable resource use in Saudi Arabia’s fisheries sector.

Effects of dietary lipid and protein levels on growth, body composition, antioxidant capacity, and flesh quality of mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi)

Effects of dietary lipid and protein levels on growth, body composition, antioxidant capacity, and flesh quality of mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi)

Diversifikasi Produk Perikanan Lokal Berkelanjutan Melalui Inovasi Teknologi Berbasis Energi Terbarukan di Kelurahan Sibatua

This community service program aims to support the diversification of sustainable local fishery products through the application of renewable energy-based technological innovations in Kelurahan Sibatua. Using the Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, this initiative actively involves the community in training, demonstration, and implementation of solar panel technology for fish cooling boxes and processing fishery products into various value-added products such as milkfish nuggets, fish balls, and crackers. The results indicate that the solar panel technology used in the cooling boxes effectively improves the quality and shelf life of fish catches while reducing operational costs that previously relied on fossil energy. Additionally, technical training and mentoring successfully enhanced the community’s skills in fish processing and the use of renewable energy technologies. Evaluation through pre-test and post-test assessments showed a significant improvement in participants' competencies, from basic understanding to the application of technology and sustainable fishery product production.