Photo: Stockfile/FIS

Shrimp Fishing Season Commences Across Oman's Coastal Governorates

OMAN
Wednesday, September 11, 2024, 00:10 (GMT + 9)

Muscat – As September begins, artisanal fishermen across Oman's coastal governorates are preparing for the eagerly awaited shrimp fishing season.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources has undertaken extensive preparations, including guidance and awareness initiatives, to support the fishermen ahead of this period, reports the Observer.

Abdullah bin Mohammed al Mukhaini, Director of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources in Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, emphasized the Eastern Province's significant contribution to shrimp production. The region consistently ranks second in local shrimp output, accounting for approximately 30 percent of the total, with an estimated annual production of 205,000 tonnes.

To ensure compliance and sustainability, the Department of Fisheries Control and Licensing under the General Directorate of Fisheries Resources Development has intensified monitoring efforts by deploying fish control teams along the coasts.

The Ministry's General Directorate of Fisheries Research, through its Marine and Fisheries Sciences Centre and Fish Farming Centre, has also conducted various scientific studies to improve shrimp fishing techniques and explore cultivation and propagation methods. These research efforts are essential for advancing the sustainable development of Oman’s shrimp fisheries.

He pointed out that the amount of shrimp caught from artisanal fishing in 2023 was good and of excellent economic value for fishermen and other beneficiaries of the fisheries sector

He stressed that the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources has directed its specialists to advise fishermen to adhere to the regulations and laws that would preserve the sustainability of this resource, such as using fishing gear and avoiding the use of prohibited fishing nets in order to ensure the sustainability of this important economic resource

The shrimp fishing season marks the third major fishing period in Oman this year. The shark fishing season, which began in March and lasted three months, was followed by the squid fishing season in August, which is set to continue until January next year.

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