India-Oman Collaboration on Shark and Ray Research in Arabian Sea

In a significant move to bolster research and conservation efforts concerning sharks and rays in the Arabian Sea, India and Oman are set to embark on a joint initiative. This collaboration aims to enhance understanding, promote conservation, and facilitate capacity building in elasmobranch research, with a particular focus on the Arabian Sea region.

Workshop Announcement and Objectives

An upcoming workshop, to be hosted at the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), will mark the commencement of this collaborative endeavor. This workshop, jointly organized by CMFRI and Oman’s Marine Science and Fisheries Centre, will serve as the platform for initiating collaborative research activities and enhancing expertise in elasmobranch research.

Foundation for Future Collaboration

Dr. A. Gopalakrishnan, Director of CMFRI, emphasized that this workshop will not only pave the way for joint marine research endeavors but also create opportunities for regional management and conservation of sharks and rays in the Arabian Sea. Moreover, he expressed optimism about extending this collaboration to encompass other vital marine resources and research areas, including tunas, mariculture, and biotechnology.

Expert Participation and Focus Areas

Experts from both India and Oman, specializing in elasmobranch research, will converge at the workshop to share their knowledge and experiences. Notable figures leading the research teams include Dr. Khalfan Al Rashdi from Oman and Dr. Shoba Joe Kizhakudan from India. The workshop will facilitate discussions on key aspects of shark and ray conservation, drawing upon insights from research conducted in both countries.

Coordination and Future Prospects

The workshop coordination is spearheaded by the India-Shark & Ray Lab of CMFRI’s Finfish Fisheries Division. With a dedicated focus on collaborative research and capacity building, this initiative sets the stage for continued cooperation between India and Oman in marine scientific endeavors, with the potential to expand into broader spheres of marine resource management and conservation.