IUU fishing in Indonesia’s live reef fisheries

Abstract

The live reef fish trade involves the exploitation of coral reef fishes to supply luxury seafood restaurants in Hong Kong and mainland China; and high demand and expensive prices resulted in excessive fishing. Almost all of Indonesia’s coral reef areas are heavily exploited, and their sustainability is threatened by overfishing, IUU fishing and the effects of destructive fishing on the target species, non-target species and on their environment. This article outlines the results of a study conducted over 2009–10 in a number of locations in Indonesia analysing the live reef fish trade, including fishing equipment, supply chain and other socio-economic aspects. Recommendations are proposed to assist the Indonesian government in developing fisheries management plans for coral reef fish.