Sixth sanctuary identification research and establishment strategy for enhancing production and conservation management of Hilsa (Tenualosa ilisha) in Bangladesh
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Abstract
Hilsa is considered the national pride of Bangladesh. During the last few decades, Hilsa production has declined rapidly due to various natural and anthropogenic factors, including reduced river flow, environmental degradation, indiscriminate fishing, and overharvesting of Jatka (juvenile Hilsa). To address this problem, the Government of Bangladesh has implemented several initiatives, among which the establishment of sanctuaries has been one of the most important.
The present study was conducted from 2010 to 2015 at five sampling sites along five tributaries of the Meghna River in Barisal District, Bangladesh. During periodic sampling months, data including length–weight relationships and Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) of Hilsa fish, including larvae and Jatka, were randomly collected from fishermen’s commercial catches and experimental catches conducted by the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI) at each sampling site.
The CPUE of Jatka gradually increased from 2.0 to 3.25 kg/100 m net/haul during the study period. Water quality parameters, including temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), free carbon dioxide (CO₂), pH, total hardness, total alkalinity, conductivity, and ammonia, were found to be suitable for maintaining river biodiversity. The study also showed a high abundance of phytoplankton, ensuring the availability of natural fish food resources.
Based on the research findings of BFRI, it was recommended that the 6th Hilsa Sanctuary be established in the region, covering a total area of 82 km. This recommendation was later implemented and officially declared by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock of Bangladesh.
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