The Survey on Eel Fisheries in Poso, Central Sulawesi

From December 12 to 15, 2024, representatives from SEAFDEC/Secretariat—Dr. Tomoko Nakazato (Deputy Secretary-General), Mr. Fumiya Takahashi, and Ms. Parinthon—joined forces with SEAFDEC/IFRDMD to conduct an eel catch sampling survey in Poso, Central Sulawesi.

As part of the survey, the team visited local fishers to discuss their fishing practices and challenges in the eel fishery. They also observed the catch sites along the Poso River to better understand the fishing environment and the methods used to catch anguillid eels. These activities provided valuable insights into local practices and contributed to the broader objective of the project.

This initiative is a key activity under the JAIF Eel Project, which seeks to collect comprehensive data on catch volume, fishing effort, and environmental factors for anguillid eel species across several river systems, including the Poso, Cimandiri, and Cikaso Rivers.

Overall, the project aimed to develop methods for estimating eel abundance and creating a manual for stock assessment. SEAFDEC/Secretariat and IFRDMD worked together to improve data collection processes. They aim to support sustainable fisheries and preserve anguillid eel resources in Southeast Asia. The findings will be shared with ASEAN Member States to promote sustainable eel fisheries management. This collaboration also aims to benefit local fishing communities and the ASEAN region by developing sustainable management strategies.