Ministry of Fish Wealth (MFW)

The Republic of Yemen has a long coastline that reaches 2,500 km; the coastline of the Gulf of Aden measures 1,550 km from Bab el Mandab, extends eastward up to the border of Oman. The Red Sea coastline stretches 650 km north from Bab el Mandab to the border with Saudi Arabia. The Scooter Archipelago, which lies off the tip of the East African Horn, has a coastline of 320 km. The coastal areas of Yemen are characterized by higher Bio-productivity (primary), making it essential feeding and nursery ground for marine species. Where more than 600 species of fish and marine organisms were recorded in Yemen`s water, this phenomenon of biodiversity was found to exist in tropical water.

The most important dominant and commercial species targeted are Large pelagic fishes (tuna &tuna like species (yellowfin tuna, kawakawa, Skipjack tuna, Stripped bonito, Spanish mackerel, Marlin), Sharks ( Blacktip shark, Sphyrna leweni Milky shark Arabian smooth-hound ), Small pelagic fishes (Sardine, Anchovies, Indian mackerel, Chub mackerel ). Demersal fishes (Emperor. Scavenger, Snappers, Grouper, Breams, Barracuda Carangoides, etc..) Crustaceans ( Spiny rock lobster, Deep- sea shrimps), Mollusks (Cuttlefish, Squids).

The last two categories are exported because of its high value. Contain species catch composition and their average annual production. The total pelagic fish stock was calculated from integrated Echo Sounder were ( 376000 -495000) Metric Tons. Ministry of Fish Wealth Marine Science and Biological Researches Authority Labor Island – Khormaksar – Aden – YEMEN By \ Saeed shaher 2 Gulf of Aden waters are characterized by a large variety of species, commercially important.

The abundance of pelagic species is strongly influenced by seasonal variations due to the prevailing Oceanographic condition, which is dominated by the Indian Ocean monsoon system, resulting in high productivity of fish resources, particularly in the eastern part of the Gulf of Aden. The winds blow from east to north-east during the north-east monsoon, October to April, and from the south-west during the south-west monsoon, May to September.

The strongest winds and associated water currents occur in July/August. During the south-west monsoon, oceanic upwelling stimulates the primary production of phytoplankton and ultimately creates an increase in the abundance of pelagic fish. The north-eastern part of the Gulf and the area south of Socotra are among the most productive marine areas in the world. The production size of sharks is increased in Yemen in the last resent yeas as a result of effort increasing; sharks are targeted and exploited by traditional artisan fishery (fishery society + private fishermen). The potential of annual sharks production in Yemen was estimated as 21,300 Metric tons. In the Socotra Archipelago, fishing is the main occupation for coastal inhabitants. Sharks are targeted using long-lines, gill nets, and hook and line techniques. The annual production of sharks is estimated at 7,283 metric tons, and the average CPUE is estimated at 54 kg per boat and day.