The popular kingfish will be available in the local market starting today, as a two-month fishing ban has been lifted.
The Agriculture and Marine Resources Directorate said in a statement yesterday that the ban, which started on August 15 during the breeding season, was part of efforts to increase the population of kingfish (locally known as chan’ad) in Bahraini waters.
The ban also aimed at regulating fishing practices, replenishing fish stocks, as well as avoiding depletion of the kingfish to achieve balance within the marine environment.
“The decision banned the public display and trade of kingfish aimed at marketing or making a profit,” said the directorate in the statement.
“Offenders caught violating the decision are to be punished according to the 2002 Fishing Organisation, Catching and Protection Law.
“The co-operation and commitment of the fishermen were greatly appreciated and crucial to the implementation of this decision, which reflects the importance of partnerships between various parties concerned.”
The directorate also highlighted that imposing a fishing ban during the breeding season has proven to be the best scientific method to preserve fish stocks and ensure the continuity of marine life.
The ban was also implemented as part of a decision of the GCC in their 23rd meeting, which stated that member countries must ensure necessary measures are taken to protect the kingfish population.
These also include increasing the size of the holes in fishing nets and determining a seasonal ban on catching kingfish using nets.
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