The ever-increasing population of jellyfish in Namibian waters become great threat to the country’s fishing industry as the jellyfish feed on fish eggs of commercial species. This worries the fishing ministry of Namibia. There is no scientific reason available in Namibia that causes the multiplication of jellyfish. Experts believe that climate change and alterations in the ecosystem could have contributed to such an increase of jellyfish.
Dr Abraham Iyambo, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Namibia, addressing the status of the Namibian fishing industry, says the effects of climate change, global warming being one such effect, has been impacting negatively on nature and economies. However, Iyambo noted that the industry is stable in spite of these developments. He added that the harvesting of most fish stocks has produced desirable results.
Commenting on hake stocks Iyambo informed that the scientist will continue to accompany hake fishing vessels, in order to collect scientific data and to monitor the effectiveness of management measures imposed. He also said that deliberate conservation measures, which includes closed areas and closed seasons, were introduced two years ago seem to have yielded positive results.
Iyambo called on all parties involved to manage fish resources prudently, so that the Namibian fishing industry remains alive. He said the government is also doing efforts to continue managing the resources with prudence. The threat of jellyfish is also considered serious and the government is keen to start operation to tackle the tough situation of jellyfish populations.
