Lake Van pearl mullet population shows 30% size increase

Conservation and awareness efforts in Lake Van have led to a significant increase in the size of the endemic pearl mullet population. According to Muhammet Demir, Head of the Fisheries and Aquatic Products Branch of the Van Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, the average length of the fish has grown by approximately 30 percent compared to 20 years ago, increasing from 17–18 centimeters to 22–23 centimeters.

The pearl mullet, which lives exclusively in the salty and alkaline waters of Lake Van, is a vital economic resource supporting approximately 15,000 people. The harvestable stock is expected to exceed 7,500 tons this year.

To protect the species, an annual fishing ban is enforced from April 15 to July 15. During this period, joint inspections are conducted by the gendarmerie, coast guard, police, and municipal teams. Recent enforcement actions resulted in the seizure of 20 tons of dead pearl mullet, 181 individuals receiving administrative fines totaling approximately 3.3 million lira, and the confiscation of 7 metal boats and 109 fishing tools.