As annual crab breeding season in the rivers and waterways of the Satkhira Range within the western Sundarbans begun on Wednesday, a two-month ban has been implemented on crab harvesting.
This critical period, lasting two months, is when crabs lay eggs and become particularly sensitive for reproduction.
From January 1 to February 29, during this ban period, no individual or organization will be allowed to catch, sell, store, or transport crabs in the Sundarbans.
The Forest Department has urged everyone to cooperate in conserving biodiversity and supporting crab reproduction during this sensitive period.
Burigoalini Forest Station Officer (SO) Ziaur Rahman said that crab harvesting in the rivers and waterways of the Sundarbans will remain suspended for two months to facilitate the breeding process. The Sheela crab species is abundant in various rivers of the Satkhira Range. Swarms of crabs migrate from the sea to the rivers to lay eggs. To ensure an uninterrupted breeding process, patrols will be intensified.
The Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) of the Satkhira Range, Moshiur Rahman, remarked: “Crabs are one of the significant sources of foreign currency earnings. The crab species of the Sundarbans are not only economically important but also play a vital role in maintaining the Sundarbans' food chain. Failure to protect crabs during the breeding season will have long-term consequences for the entire Sundarbans ecosystem.
He further added: To maintain natural balance, local communities, fishermen, and all stakeholders are urged to comply with this ban. The Forest Department has completed all preparations to enhance crab breeding. Fishermen have been strictly instructed not to harvest crabs. If anyone violates the ban and engages in crab harvesting, actions will be taken under forest laws.”
