KZN shellfish collectors called on to participate in conservation survey

With the steady decline of brown mussel collection, scientists from the Oceanographic Research Institute (ORI) in Durban are seeking the assistance of shellfish collectors.

Dedicated to monitoring the progression of marine life, the institution has kept a watchful eye on how people in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) utilise coastal resources like east coast lobster, mussels, octopus and sand prawns (crackers) for 60 years.

According to their observation, Covid-19, the 2021 looting and April 2022 floods drastically impacted brown mussel collection.

The dipping numbers are concerning because brown mussels are a fundamental part of the coastal ecosystem and rocky reefs, and offer food and habitat in the intertidal zone.

For years, the reefs of uMhlanga, eMdloti and Ballito were considered hot spots for brown mussel collection, but those figures have since dwindled.

In a bid to resolve the issue, the ORI scientists have formulated an online survey and fishery observers to monitor the collection of brown mussels and other shellfish.

They are dependent on the assistance of voluntary catch reporting, online surveys and fishery observers to monitor the collection of brown mussels and other shellfish.

If you are a shellfish collector, we would be most appreciative if you would consider participating in this year’s survey.

By taking 10 minutes of your time to participate in the survey, you will not only be assisting in marine conservation, but also stand a chance to win a prize.

Those who are passionate about the conservation of KZN’s reefs can click on the below survey link:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/invertsurvey?fbclid=IwY2xjawGESIhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHUxnGIHDVlfNUIMBlgHijrQaRwji9U0BrnPb2-giamK6AusLBuPVI-0jNA_aem_sBd9qUsFb1diV2tbXSGupA

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