Seasonal Variations in Species Composition and Catch Trends of Commercially Important Marine Fish and Shrimp Species of the Bay of Bengal

Abstract

The present study investigated the species composition and seasonal variations of commercially important marine fish and shrimp species available in the Bay of Bengal, a region vital for biodiversity and the blue economy. This study analysed monthly and seasonal variations in fish and shrimp catches between two fishing years (2022-23 and 2023-2024), using primary data from onboard observers, landing centre, and interviews, along with secondary data from government records. Statistical analysis revealed significant patterns, with sardine catches peaking in March 2022-23 (7,255.97 MT) and shifting to November 2023-24 (5,756.13 MT). Hilsa catches were highest in December 2022-23 (2,092.01 MT) but peaked in November 2023-24 (785.56 MT). Total shrimp catches decreased from 462.43 MT in November 2022-23 to 292.22 MT in November 2023-24, reflecting potential overfishing and environmental stressors. This study also found the variations in trawling activity between two fiscal years, in 2022-23, the highest active fishing trawler were found in November (198) and lowest in October (3), highest shrimp trawler were in few months (27) and lowest were 22. In this year the maximum fishing days performd by fishing trawler were found in December (4407) and by shrimp trawler were in December (623). In 2023-24, the highest active trawlers were found in November (194) and lowest in July (5), but shrimp trawlers were highest in November (26) and lowest in April (16). During this fiscal year, the highest fishing days were found in November (4167) and highest fishing days by shrimp trawlers were in November (561). The study analysed the catch composition and seasonal variations of commercially important marine species with the trawling activity and fishing days occurred in the Bay of Bengal. It highlights the need for climate adaptation strategies and monitoring environmental factors to inform adaptive fisheries management, including seasonal bans, gear modifications, and habitat restoration. It emphasizes the importance of integrating scientific monitoring with governance to support the long-term sustainability of marine fisheries and coastal livelihoods.