Bangkok: The Department of Fisheries has announced a new initiative to close a portion of the Andaman Sea bay for a three-month period starting April 1, 2025. This decision forms part of efforts to manage aquatic resources effectively during the spawning and larvae-raising season.
According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony announcing these measures was led by Mr. Bancha Sukkaew, Director-General of the Department of Fisheries. During the event, it was emphasized that the mission of aquatic resource management will be driven with community participation. This aligns with the 'Sustainable Aquatic Animals' concept, which aims to enhance fishing careers and the quality of life for fishermen in accordance with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives' main policies.
The management measures focus on areas in the provinces of Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, and Trang. The objective is to create a conservation and management area to maintain natural balance and sustainability. This decision is based on a 2024 academic study by the Department of Fisheries, which highlighted the importance of the spawning season for economically vital aquatic species such as mackerel and pla lang.
The study revealed that during the enforcement period, these species reached sexual maturity at a rate of over 80 percent. Moreover, the area showed a significant increase in young economic fish both before and after the measures, with an average fish abundance recorded at 577 fish per 1,000 cubic meters in March, and 258 per 1,000 cubic meters in May. The post-measure average total catch rate showed a significant increase, being 3.5 times higher than before the measures were enforced.
The event also included a tribute to Admiral Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, Prince of Chumphon, as well as the release of patrol boats to monitor the area. Additionally, financial plaques were presented to local fisheries communities to support career development and resource restoration. The release of 1,510,000 black tiger shrimp and blue swimming crabs into the sea was also carried out to boost production and restore ecosystem abundance.
The ceremony featured exhibitions on various topics, including the evaluation of marine resource management measures, seagrass conservation, and the promotion of sustainable fisheries practices. Products from 10 local fishing communities were also showcased, emphasizing environmentally friendly and safe practices.
The Department of Fisheries is hopeful that these measures will foster the sustainable use of aquatic resources through community awareness and participation. Gratitude was extended to fishermen contributing to the sustainable management of aquatic resources, ensuring long-term stability and abundance in the fishing profession.