SFA aims for more proactive management of the mud crab population

PRESS RELEASE

SFA aims for more proactive management of the mud crab population

12-01-2024 – A recent 12-month assessment reveals a catch rate of 0.23 crab per trap per day. Notably, a Marine Protected Area emerged as a critical contributor to a heightened catch rate playing its role for conservation of this species. This has prompted the need for proactive management of the mud crab population to ensure sustainability of its stock.

The study that took place from October 2022 to October 2023 was carried out by Bee Ecological Consulting under the supervision of the Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA) with the assistance of the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA). The result of the study was presented in a workshop today (Friday 12th January 2024) at the STC conference room.

This significant work was made possible through the Oceans5 project managed by the Seychelles Conservation and Climate Adaptation Trust (SeyCCAT) and funded by the Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors.

It employed a mix of online surveys, in-person interviews, capacity building training and an extensive trapping initiative across 11 sites, the assessment has uncovered valuable insights.  Offering the concerned parties valuable information and a first reference point on the mud crab (Scylla Serrata) fishery in the Inner Granitic Island of Seychelles.

However, the study also highlighted concerns with an exploitation rate nearing 0.50, prompting the need for proactive management. The report cautions against commercial activities on Mahé and Praslin, with 66.7% of Mahé fishermen expressing concerns about the fishery’s perceived decline. Pragmatic recommendations include bi-annual surveys on Mahé to establish reference points using catch and effort data. Proposals from the consultant also advocate for a minimum size limit of 130 mm for both male and female mud crabs, ensuring reproductive maturity before harvesting. The report also recommends protecting breeding populations by releasing berried females and studying the reproductive ecology of female Scylla Serrata.

More forward-thinking initiatives were suggested such as hatchery-produced crablets, mud crab restocking, and a dedicated study on juvenile mud crabs to enhance sustainable practices. The report calls for adaptive and collaborative management to harmonize ecological health and community well-being.

As Seychelles charts a sustainable course for mud crab fisheries, these recommendations provide a roadmap for a Mud Crab Fishery Management Plan. In fostering an ongoing alliance between researchers and local communities, these measures aim to strike a delicate balance between the conservation of mud crab populations and the socio-economic needs of Seychelles’ coastal communities.

Recommendations from the consultants have been noted by both the SFA and the Ministry for Fisheries and Blue Economy. From the findings, the policy makers are now tasked with drafting policies which will ensure the sustainable development of mud crab aquaculture in the Seychelles.

Mr. Gonzague Dialloo from Les Mamelles is a mud crab farmer who has participated in the study and gain much knowledge on how to better care for the species.

“I started with only a male and female crab in a marsh near my home. Over time, the population grew.  I was later, contacted by the group researchers to provide some data, pictures and more. There is a lot of potential in this practice, especially in public marshes. Yet, I feel that there is need for more education and sustainable practice,” he explains.

It is to be noted that there are two ways to farm mud crab, either through hatchery technology or the most popular is through fattening. Fattening would require juvenile recruitment from the wild.