A Statistic Survey of Marine and Freshwater Fish Catch in Basrah, Iraq 1990 – 2011

Abstract

This study is an attempt to study the fishery resources and fisheries in Basra province in Iraq, during 1990 to 2011. The declared catches by fishermen and fish market were used in this study. The total commercial catch peaked in 2009 at 4.390.775 and 152.445 ton for Marine and Freshwater fishes respectively. Species composition of catches was studied during the above period. About twenty nine marine and thirteen freshwater fish species were recorded. The total catch of the marine fishes was dominated by Tenualosa illisha. It accounted for about 45 % of the total catch during whole period. The freshwater fishes was mainly represented by (Silurus triostegus) which accounted for 32% of the total during whole period. Gill net’s fishing method was employed mainly for catching pelagic fish, trawling is single largest technology being practiced in the region for harvesting the demersal fishes. Overfishing was perceived as a serious problem and needs to, be taken into account in considering risks to the stock of the fishes. The weather patterns, market prices and environmental conditions (natural or human-made) have a significant effect on fish stock. Moreover, increases in water salinity and pollution level has also a significant impact on fish stock and therefore, the enforcement of the new standards for Environment Pollution Control in the province is required.