Studies On Bottom Trawling And Demersal Fishes Of Qatar Waters, Arabian Gulf

Abstract

The bottom trawl fishery and their by-catch from Qatar waters were analysed on a systematic basis for species composition, length, weight and girth-among other things-during the year 1986-1987. The resuls proved a steady level of landing during the years 1981-87 with a mean of 720 + 97 metric tons/year with an expected landing (in 1990th) of about 970 tons. Great variability was noticed between hauls both qualitatively and quantitatively. It showed also that 40-60% of the catch (496-635 tons) was included as by-catch. The relatively high % of the by-catch was attributed to smaller codend mesh size, prolonged towing time and high towing speed. The study recommended increasing codend mesh size to 60 mm, reducing both towing time and towing speed. It also recommended establishment of a mini pilot plant for fish-meal and fertilizers production either on a remote island or on a floating rig working as a mother boat between the trawlers in-situ.