Several countries within the WIO region have a long-established shell trade, and there is growing interest in marine ornamental species from the region. Little is known about the status, population sizes and distribution of most of the target species, and so the extent to which the fisheries pose a threat is poorly understood. Similarly, insufficient is known about existing or potential benefits derived from trade in ornamentals and curios in terms of income generation.

 

To provide a comprehensive analysis of the marine ornamental and curio trades in the Western Indian Ocean and recommendations for improvement of these industries in terms of reducing negative ecological and socio-economic impacts and increasing economic and social benefits to local communities. The specific objectives of the project are:

 

(1) Provide details of the overall structure and operational details of the ornamental and curio trades in each WIO country.

 

(2) Provide details of aquaculture ventures involving ornamental or curio species in WIO countries with an assessment of the potential for development of this sector to enhance livelihood opportunities and income generation.

 

(3) Provide details of management and regulatory mechanisms relating to collection and trade in ornamental and curio species in WIO countries.

 

(4) Provide data on fishery characteristics, including target species and localities, collection methods, catch and effort in WIO countries.

 

(5) Provide data on socio-economic characteristics of the ornamental and curio trades in WIO countries.

 

(6) Provide information on existing and potential impacts of collection and trade in ornamental and curio species in WIO countries.

 

(7) Assess existing and potential benefits and threats of the ornamental and curio trades in the WIO and prepare country and regional recommendations in consultation with relevant stakeholders.