Science-based restoration of commercially important spiny lobster habitats

Spiny lobsters are an important source of income for local fishers in Seychelles; however, declines in abundance prevent consistency in the operation of the commercial fishery. In recent years, many of the fringing reefs in Seychelles have become dominated by fleshy macroalgae and no longer support the same numbers of common and commercially essential reef inhabitants, such as lobsters and octopuses.

The project aimed to increase knowledge of spiny lobster populations, colonisation and habitat utilisation around Mahe. After multiple surveys and data analysis, the project recommended a mesoscale settlement monitoring program in Seychelles to assess the impact of environmental factors on lobster recruitment. It also emphasised the need for careful planning in lobster aquaculture, highlighting the risks of relying on wild populations for seed stock. Overall, the project contributed valuable ecological data and refined research directions for sustainable fisheries management.