The squid fishing season began in the governorates of South Sharqiyah, Al Wusta and some wilayats of Dhofar governorate on August 1.
Earlier, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, represented by the directorates general of fisheries in Dhofar, South Sharqiyah and Al Wusta had completed its preparations for a successful season which is of great economic importance to artisanal fishermen.
A press release stated the ministry had initiated an outreach and media campaign to educate artisanal fishermen about the period of squid fishing season, the type of nets and equipment allowed and steps taken to prevent overfishing.
The ministry, in cooperation with fishermen, has intensified efforts to prevent overexploitation of fisheries stocks and preserve the marine environment from pollution. The release added that fishermen from South Sharqiyah, Al Wusta and Dhofar have affirmed that they would abide by the fishing rules as a good season helps to boost their annual income. During their meetings with ministry officials, fishermen also discussed about the challenges faced by them during the annual season particularly rough weather conditions prevailing in the sea.’
The squid, locally known as Al ghitro, belongs to the mollusca family. Most of the fishermen see the season as key to meet the demands of local and foreign buyers.’ The cephalopod is a key resource for protein and is a healthy food as it lacks fat. Its consumption prevents many diseases and is called squid’ as it releases ink from its body in times of danger as a camouflage and to escape from its predators or even the nets of fishermen. It is exported to many Asian and European countries. The season will conclude in January 2015.
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