Improving illegal mobulid catch data collection for effective conservation management
Key Facts
FUNDING SCHEME Darwin Plus Local
VALUE £46,713
WHERE British Indian Ocean Territory
Summary
Manta and devil ray populations face serious threats due to fisheries. Although protected in BIOT, illegal fishing is common and limited catch recording is a significant barrier to effective management. This project will increase catch data recording accuracy and efficiency by providing expert training in data collection, species identification, and data management protocols. It will introduce a 'mobulid ambassador scheme' for consistent training through a trainer-development initiative. The project team and an interactive online tool will support the scheme long-term.
