Morocco octopus stocks see significant biomass increase

Morocco's State Secretariat for Sea Fisheries has reported a significant recovery in octopus stocks following the conclusion of the summer fishing season on September 10. Scientific assessments from the National Institute of Fisheries Research indicate that the octopus biomass increased by 13% compared to 2025 and by 27% compared to the average of the last ten years.

This improvement in stock levels has allowed for adjusted fishing quotas for the 2026 season. Specifically, the quota for the southern Boujdour region was increased by 21% compared to the summer of 2025. Production data through early September shows growth across several sectors: traditional fishing in Dakhla (SU2) rose by 11%, traditional fishing in Boujdour (SU1) increased by 5%, and coastal fishing south of Sidi Ghazani saw a 24% rise.

Authorities attributed these positive indicators to management measures designed to protect breeding periods and regulate fishing efforts. These measures included prohibiting fishing south of latitude 22°42′ N starting August 19, 2026, and banning bottom trawling within 18 nautical miles of the area between Sidi Ghazani and latitude 22°42′ N from late August to September 10.