Species diversity and fishing status of mantis shrimp (Family: Squillidae) in the coastal Dong Hai district, Bac Lieu province

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the species diversity and current status of mantis shrimp (Squillidae) exploitation in the waters of Dong Hai district, Bac Lieu province. The study was conducted from December 2023 to May 2024. Samples were collected twice a month by fishermen using various fishing gears such as barrier trap nets, bag nets, inshore and offshore trawl nets. Specimens were measured for weight (g) and total length (cm), and detailed characteristics were documented with magnifications ranging from 6 to over 50 times to identify the species. Additionally, the study surveyed 30 fishermen in the area who are actively fishing for mantis shrimp to assess the current fishing status. The results showed that five species of mantis shrimp, including one large-sized species, Harpiosquilla raphidae, and four small to medium sized species: Miyakea nepa, Oratosquillina interrupta, Cloridopsis scorpio, and Clorida depressa. Mantis shrimp are exploited by fishermen year-round due to their consistent high economic value. Prices vary based on size, with live mantis shrimp commanding higher prices than the frozen ones. The size of mantis shrimp also dictates the choice of fishing gear; large shrimp are typically caught with trawl nets, while smaller and medium-sized shrimp are targeted with barrier trap nets and bag nets. However, due to environmental pollution from wastewater of aquaculture activities and overexploitation by humans, the population of mantis shrimp is gradually declining.