Marine fish harvest in Bangladesh declined for the second consecutive year, with catches from the Bay of Bengal falling to 628,622 tonnes in FY 2023-24, the lowest in nine years, marking a 13% year-on-year drop, according to the Department of Fisheries (DoF). Hilsa, the largest contributor, fell by 40,000 tonnes to 280,918 tonnes, while shrimp harvests also declined, totaling a combined 60,494-tonne drop. The decline is attributed to jellyfish proliferation, a nearly four-month government fishing ban, and increased piracy. Commercial vessels contributed 114,804 tonnes, while small boats accounted for 513,818 tonnes. In FY 2022-23, total marine fish catches stood at 719,619 tonnes. Experts cite overfishing and illegal small-mesh nets as major threats. The government, in coordination with India, plans a fishing ban from April 15 to July 11 to boost fish stocks. Fishermen hope improved weather conditions will support a better catch this year.
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