|
Dolphinfish capture. (Photo: SRP)
Dolphinfish capture ban for three months
ECUADOR
Friday, April 20, 2012, 16:30 (GMT + 9)
The Undersecretariat of Fisheries Resources (SRP) ordered a ban on the capture of dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) from 1 July to 7 October 2012 in order to protect young specimens and ensure the resource for human consumption.
In addition, the Government will hold an inspection survey to ensure the proper use of hooks so as to avoid catching other fish stocks.
According to several scientific studies, bycatch greatly affects species, explained Hugo Vera Serrano, SRP head.
The investigations were carried out onboard mother ships and on fiberglass vessels in the fishing creeks in Esmeraldas, Muisne, Manta, San Mateo, Santa Marianita, Santa Rosa and Anconcito. Besides, the biological fishing developmental and the population genetics of dolphinfish were taken into account, Diario Opinión reported.
The fisheries authorities from Ecuador intend to manage the fishery by implementing the National Action Plan for the conservation and management of dolphinfish.
Jimmy Martínez Ortiz, adviser to SRP, is organizing an inspection survey for the proper use of hooks and monofilament buoyropes in order to avoid hooking or entangling sea turtles.
"The technological improvements in the fishing gears and the good fishing practices, combined with training for fishermen, offer good fruits to ensure that fisheries are friendly to the marine environment and sustainable over time," he stressed.
With regard to the fisheries improvement project, on 26 March the results of the current status of the resource, the population genetics and the good management practices of the bycatch on board vessels were presented, Vera Serrano added as it was reported by SRP on its Website.
Ecuador ranks first, with a share of 65.72 per cent in total annual landings of bony fish (large pelagic specimens).
Dolphinfish has a lengthy body that can reach up to two metres.
By Analia Murias
editorial@fis.com
www.fis.com
|
Print
