Challenges in the Blue Crab Fishing Season: Soft Shells Affecting Fishermen
In the wake of the fishing season's closure, the west coast of Chungnam Province is witnessing a surge in blue crab fishing. However, the excitement is dampened by a concerning issue—changing sea temperatures are leading to an abundance of soft-shelled or hollow crabs, posing challenges for fishermen.
As fishing boats return to harbor, the night's catch spills onto the deck, revealing a disheartening truth. Despite their outward appearance, many blue crabs caught in this season are soft-shelled, with some even lacking proper filling. The fragile shells are easily crushed, making them unsuitable for sale.
The reason behind this predicament lies in the delayed molting season caused by lower ocean temperatures. Blue crabs, in their growth cycle, molt repeatedly, but the insufficient acquisition of nutrients due to colder waters leads to what fishermen term as 'floppy' crabs.
Recent statistics indicate a nearly 10% increase in the amount of blue crabs caught off the coast of Boryeong, Chungcheongnam-do. However, a significant portion of these crabs is labeled 'mulung,' diminishing their marketability. Soft-shelled or immature crabs are being discarded as waste, affecting both the industry and the environment.
Experts propose a dynamic approach to the blue crab closure period, emphasizing flexibility based on yearly water temperature changes. Monitoring these changes would allow adjustments to the fishing timeline, ensuring a more sustainable harvest. However, challenges arise as fishermen hold varying opinions on when the closure should be lifted, especially in the lead-up to holidays.
Balancing the economic needs of fishermen with the preservation of marine ecosystems remains a critical challenge, highlighting the delicate interplay between industry demands and environmental sustainability.
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