Minimum Catch Size Requirements in Indonesia
April 28, 2011
Good news from Indonesia. The NFI Crab Council received a communication from Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, stating that the 33 provincial governments have been instructed to initiate a minimum catch size of 8 centimeters for blue swimming crab. At this stage, the Ministry is asking fisheries, mini-plants and associations to implement the minimum catch size strictly on a voluntary basis, but this is a giant step forward for blue swimming crab sustainability.
Instituting a minimum catch size makes it easier for crab populations to grow. Crabs that are smaller than 8 centimeters long usually have not had a chance to reproduce. When these juvenile crabs are protected, the population has a chance to replenish and thrive.
Blue Star and others in the NFI Crab Council have been instrumental in pushing for progressive rules and regulations governing fishing practices in Indonesia. I am thrilled with the Ministry’s decision, and hope to see more legislation that supports marine life and environmental protections in the near future.
