KHULNA: A two-month prohibition on crab harvesting has been instituted in the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, to protect the breeding season of this crucial aquatic species. The Department of Forest has initiated the ban across the rivers in the western and southern divisions of the Sundarbans, effective from January 1 to February 28.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mihir Kumar Doe, Conservator of Forests in Khulna, emphasized the economic significance of crabs, noting their role as a vital source of foreign currency. The Department of Forest has implemented comprehensive measures to enhance crab breeding, including instructing fishermen to abstain from crab harvesting during this critical period.
Mihir Kumar highlighted that the Sundarbans encompasses a 1,874 square-kilometer water area within Bangladesh, accounting for 31 percent of the total Sundarbans area. This aquatic region is home to 210 species of fish, 24 species of shrimp, and 14 species of crabs.
The months of January and February mark the peak breeding season for crabs, prompting the annual suspension of crab harvesting permits by the Department of Forest. Ziaur Rahman, Station Forest Officer at Burigoalini under Satkhira Range, stated that these months witness a significant increase in egg-laying activity among crabs, with the rivers in the Satkhira range teeming with the sheela species.
During this breeding season, crabs migrate in large numbers from the sea to the rivers to lay eggs, emphasizing the importance of the ban in ensuring their continued proliferation.