Octopus Conservation: A Global Review of Methods to Ameliorate Fishing Mortality

Barrett, C J and Alfaro-Cordova, E and Alfaro-Shigueto, J and Allcock, L and Allen, A and Almansa, E and Bentes, L and Braga, R and Brazier, A and Cabanellas-Reboredo, M and Compaire, J C and Cooke, G M and Doubleday, Zoe and Drerup, C and Hernández-Urcera, J and Holdgate, A and Markaida, Unai and Mange, J C and Van der Molen, S V and Moustahfid, H and Ortiz, N and Perales-Raya, C and Roldán-Wong, N T and Hua, Q Q H and Pierce, G J and Piló, D and Rangel, M and Rosa, Rui and Roura, A and Sajikumar, K K and Sasikumar, Geetha and Oesterwind, D and Vossen, K (2026) Octopus Conservation: A Global Review of Methods to Ameliorate Fishing Mortality. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. pp. 1-19. ISSN 1052-7613

Text Aquatic Conservation Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems_2026_Sajikumar K K.pdf Restricted to Registered users only Download (2MB)

Abstract

Octopuses are a vital global fisheries resource for both food and economic security, and rising demand is putting increasing pressure on their populations in many regions, making conservation measures essential. Four overarching conservation methods were identified: area closures, gear regulations, effort regulations and landing regulations, with evidence reviewed from Europe, Africa, Latin America, Asia and Australia. The feasibility and ethics of octopus aquaculture are also discussed. Regional adaptations are necessary, as no universal strategy fits all octopus species in all areas, and promoting citizen science and using fisher knowledge can help fill knowledge gaps. Co-management strategies show promise in addressing small-scale fisheries management challenges. Insights gathered in this review will assist managers and stakeholders in establishing regulations and conservation initiatives aimed at enhancing the productivity and sustainability of fisheries that interact with octopuses. Additionally, it identifies knowledge gaps that require further attention.

Actions (login required)

View Item