An Assessment of Coastal and Bank fisheries in Mauritius: Analysis of CPFD Trends

Abstract

Marine capture fisheries are crucial for food security and economic stability, yet they confront escalating threats from anthropogenic activities and climate change. This study focuses on the coastal and bank fisheries of the Republic of Mauritius, a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) which is highly reliant on fisheries. We analyze a decade of catch data sourced from the Ministry of Blue Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries, and Shipping, by studying catch composition and trends in Catch Per Fisherman Day (CPFD). Our analysis reveals intriguing patterns in CPFD across different regions. Coastal fisheries exhibit fluctuations in CPFD for various fishing methods, signaling the necessity for adaptive management strategies. In contrast, bank fisheries demonstrate more stable CPFD trends, possibly due to the unique characteristics of these fishing grounds. These findings offer valuable insights for fisheries management and conservation efforts in Mauritius. They emphasize the significance of sustainable practices and adaptive management to safeguard the future of these vital marine resources amidst environmental challenges.