Seasonal Ban: Madeira Plans to Protect Black Scabbardfish

Espada Fishing Ban to Protect Breeding Grounds Is Being Discussed

The Regional Government of Madeira is preparing to implement a partial seasonal fishing ban for black scabbardfish. The move comes as authorities seek to safeguard the fish population during its breeding season, which typically occurs toward the end of the year and into early January.

In the months at the end of the year and the beginning of the next, the black scabbardfish spawns closer to the shores of Madeira, the Canary Islands, and the Azores. During this time, there is a need to allow the population to grow and ensure greater abundance of the resource.

Luís Ferreira, Regional Director of Fisheries, RTP Madeira

Black Scabbardfish: A Crucial Species for Madeira's Economy

The black scabbardfish is particularly vulnerable during its spawning season. As the fish migrate closer to the shores in late November to early January, local fisheries face pressure to ensure the species’ population remains stable.

Expert Says, There Must Be A Hard Cap on Fishing Espada

Marine biologistJoão Delgado mentions that the black scabbardfish population has remained stable, with catches consistently around 2,000 tons annually. However, Delgado warns that surpassing this threshold could risk overfishing and harm the species' long-term viability. He explains that 2,000 tons correspond to about one million fish caught each year, a large number for a species that requires careful and sustainable management.

By limiting fishing in the waters within 12 nautical miles of the island, a targeted closure could protect the breeding population while still allowing for fishing in other areas. This potential ban would not be total but limited to the reproductive zones, offering a much-needed protection measure during critical periods for the species.

Diário de Notícias da Madeira

Fishing Ban Would Likely Last 2-3 Months

The proposed ban would focus on the breeding areas where black scabbardfish predominantly gather to spawn, while allowing other areas with presumably lower fish populations to remain open for fishing.

Sources:
RTP Madeira
Diário de Notícias da Madeira