Elasmobranch Fisheries, Biodiversity, and Landing-Site Characteristics in the Gulf of Sirte, Libya

Abstract

The Libyan coastline extends for nearly 2,000 km and hosts diverse marine habitats that support numerous vulnerable elasmobranch species. This study provides the first integrative assessment of artisanal fisheries targeting cartilaginous fishes in the Gulf of Sirte, central Libya. A frame survey was conducted from March to June 2024 following the FAO-GFCM protocol to document landing-site infrastructure, fishing fleets, gear types, species composition, catch estimates, and biological characteristics of selected species. A total of 43 landing sites were identified, of which 81% operate seasonally. The local fleet is composed entirely of small artisanal craft (“Fluka”), with 303 units recorded. The predominant fishing gears used for elasmobranchs were the traditional Kellabia net and longlines. Sixteen shark and ray species were documented, including several threatened taxa such as Carcharhinus plumbeus, Squatina squatina, and Rhinobatos cemiculus. Biological data were collected from embryos of Mustelus mustelus. Bycatch of turtles, dolphins, and seabirds was also recorded. Numerous ecological and socio-economic challenges were identified, including fishing during breeding seasons, pollution from oil operations, lack of management, and insufficient awareness among fishers. Recommendations are proposed to support sustainable elasmobranch conservation and fisheries management in the region.