The Re-construction of Artificial Reefs for Octopus using Discarded Electric Poles

Abstract

"The accelerated post-independence lagoon sand mining activities had deleterious effects on the marine ecosystem. The dredging, silting and boat movement had led to severe ecosystem destruction including octopus habitat. This resulted in a drastic drop of fresh octopus on the local market.

"This study aims at reconstructing the damaged habitat at the affected sites using Artificial Reef (AR) with a view to increase the population of 0ctopus and to meet the demand of at least the local market. This will also help overcome the income loss which has been accrued over the years and ensure once more a daily bread for octopus fishers( ensure sustainability for low income group).

"The Artificial Reef was made from discarded concrete electric poles which have been cut and worked out into a habitat for Octopuses strong enough to resist underwater current and also easily maneuverable by fishers using existing practices. Fishers were attributed a limited number of Artificial Octopus habitats so as to maintain a low, sustainable catch per unit effort. These artificial octopus nests were to be used strictly outside the 'Not Take Zone' which has been demarcated in the fishing ground after consulting the local fishers.

"The 'Not Take Zone' or Marine Protected Area (MPA) ensures replenishment of stocks and protects the species thus enabling them to attain adult productive size. Adult octopus allows spawning and larvae production.

"Results have shown that the artificial reef is productive after eight months stay in the marine environment. Fishers fishing with 8 ARs have a minimum additional monthly income equal to one fifth the salary of an unskilled local worker.

"Results have also shown that avoiding conflict among fishers, proper monitoring and management of ARs, using sound fishing practices and harvesting the resource at adult size, will increase production considerably.

"The project can be undertaken in other sites, provided all the implementation measures are strictly respected."