Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Prohibit Retention of Mobulid Rays in Fisheries for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species
Key claim: NMFS finalizes a rule prohibiting retention of mobulid rays in Atlantic highly migratory species fisheries and requiring their unharmed release, implementing ICCAT Recommendation 24-12.
Abstract
(Rule · Commerce Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) In this final rule, NMFS is changing regulations to implement the binding International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) Recommendation 24-12 on mobulid rays of the family Mobulidae. Specifically, this action prohibits retention of mobulid rays in fisheries for Atlantic highly migratory species (HMS), requires mobulid rays to be released unharmed in HMS fisheries, and implements mobulid ray handling practices for vessels fishing with pelagic longline gear.
Why this matters
The rule tightens bycatch handling requirements for U.S. Atlantic HMS fishermen (tuna, swordfish, shark, billfish fisheries) by prohibiting retention of mobulid rays, aligning domestic practice with international ICCAT conservation commitments. Consumer and food price impact is negligible because mobulids are not a commercial food species, but the action illustrates how international fishery conservation recommendations translate into binding domestic operational requirements for U.S. commercial and recreational fleets.