EWS-WWF Choose Wisely Campaign

The people and the landscape of the UAE have changed tremendously in the past 40 years. Naturally, this has led to a change in the way we use our resources. Fisheries are no exception.

Commercial fishing in the UAE is carried out using a variety of traditional fishing equipment and technologies. Multi-gear artisanal fisheries catch over 100 species of fish from more than 35 families. The "gargoor," a dome-shaped wire trap, is by far the most important type of traditional fishing gear. In 2009 alone, these traps caught 736 tonnes of Hamour and 346 tonnes of Shaari in Abu Dhabi, making up 43.2% of the total fish catch in the emirate.
The development of the fishing fleet has led to excess pressure on a variety of commercial species. The numbers of boats and traps have multiplied over the years, highlighting the need for improved management plans and regulations. The loss or discard of fishing gear can lead to 'ghost fishing,' whereby fish continue to be trapped in fishing gear left behind. Unlike in the past, when traps were made out of degradable palm fronds, modern day gargoors are made out of steel, allowing them to continue to catch fish long after they are lost to fishermen.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• UAE Overfishing
• Hamour
• Shaari
• Fersh
• Zuraidi
• Kanaad
• Yemah
• Safi Arabi
• Qabit