Octopus Conservation: A Global Review of Methods to Ameliorate Fishing Mortality

C. J. Barrett, E. Alfaro-Cordova, J. Alfaro-Shigueto, L. Allcock, A. Allen, E. Almansa, L. Bentes, R. Braga, A. Brazier, M. Cabanellas-Reboredo, J. C. Compaire, G. M. Cooke, Z. Doubleday, C. Drerup, J. Hernández-Urcera, A. Holdgate, U. Markaida, J. C. Mangel, S. V. Van der Molen, H. Moustahfid, N. Ortiz, C. Perales-Raya, N. T. Roldán-Wong, Q. Q. H. Hua, G. J. Pierce, D. Piló, M. Rangel, R. Rosa, A. Roura, K. K. Sajikumar, G. Sasikumar, K. Vossen, D. Oesterwind, 2026. Octopus Conservation: A Global Review of Methods to Ameliorate Fishing Mortality. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems.Volume36.Issue10.October 2026. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.70449

Abstract:Octopuses are a vital global fisheries resource for both food and economic security, and rising demand is putting increasing pressure on their populations in many regions, making conservation measures essential. Four overarching conservation methods were identified: area closures, gear regulations, effort regulations and landing regulations, with evidence reviewed from Europe, Africa, Latin America, Asia and Australia. The feasibility and ethics of octopus aquaculture are also discussed. Regional adaptations are necessary, as no universal strategy fits all octopus species in all areas, and promoting citizen science and using fisher knowledge can help fill knowledge gaps. Co-management strategies show promise in addressing small-scale fisheries management challenges. Insights gathered in this review will assist managers and stakeholders in establishing regulations and conservation initiatives aimed at enhancing the productivity and sustainability of fisheries that interact with octopuses. Additionally, it identifies knowledge gaps that require further attention.

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