Towards a sustainable seabob fishery in the coastal zone of Surinam (SEABOB)

How sustainable is the MSC-certified fishery for Atlantic seabob (Xiphopenaeus kroyeri) in the coastal waters of Surinam? The aim of thisis research aimsis to quantify the ecological impact of seabob fisheries on the marine ecosystem in Surinam by means ofusing habitat characterisation and mapping of the distribution of benthic organisms, including the seabob shrimp in the coastal zone. Subsequently, The next step is to determine the fishing pressure and the role of seabob shrimp both as prey and as predator in the ecosystem are determined throughin a comparative study between fished and non-fished zones. The final goal is to provide knowledge in support of an operational seabob fishery with a minimal environmental impact, and to minimise the negative interaction between industrial and traditional fishermen.

First, biological data (density, biomass, size, diversity) of seabob shrimp, the benthos (and other potential prey groups), and the by-catch (mainly fish) are collected with a commercial fishing vessel at 15 locations along three transects in the coastal zone of Surinam. Using stomach content and stable isotope analyses, we determine the main food sources of seabob shrimp and its potential predators (mainly fish). We map the migration of seabob shrimp and the link between traditional and industrial fisheries in the coastal zone. Finally, the environmental impact of otter trawl fisheries on the benthic ecosystem is described by comparing fished and non-fished areas and by performing trawling experiments.

Since 2011, the Surinam seabob shrimp fishery has been awarded an MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) eco-label for the efforts they have undertaken to improve the sustainability of the exploitation of seabob shrimp in Surinam (e.g. Turtle Excluder Devices, Bycatch Reduction Devices, restricted fishing area, Vessel Monitoring Systems and stakeholder participation in the management process). Several conditions are attached to this MSC label, and some still need to be investigated. This doctoral research project contributes to a better understanding of the seabob shrimp ecology, the environment in which they live, and the impact of the seabob fisheries. After this knowledge has been translated into policy advice, it can then be used to fine-tune the seabob fishery management.