Researchers from the University of South Australia have developed the world’s first comprehensive guide aimed at protecting octopuses from overfishing. The findings were published in the scientific journal Marine and Freshwater Research, marking a milestone in cephalopod conservation and sustainable fisheries.
Global octopus production has surged over recent decades to meet rising demand from a growing global population. Today, about 400 thousand octopuses are harvested each year from more than 90 countries. As fishing volumes are projected to rise, the need for informed management grows, because unchecked removal can destabilize octopus populations and disrupt marine ecosystems.
To help ensure the long term viability of octopus stocks, the research team produced a practical document that enables fishermen to more accurately determine the age of octopuses they capture.
The technique relies on counting growth rings found in the inner tissues near the beaks and gills, analogous to how tree rings reveal age in forestry. Unlike some other molluscs where rings reflect days of growth rather than years, octopus ring patterns provide reliable age indicators when interpreted correctly by trained personnel.
By offering a robust age assessment method, the researchers argue that younger and immature individuals can be protected, allowing them to mature and contribute to future generations. This approach supports more selective fishing practices and helps sustain octopus biodiversity while meeting human dietary needs.
Earlier work in this field noted that octopus eyesight and other sensory capabilities can be affected by environmental changes, including shifts in ocean temperature. This broader context underscores the importance of scientifically grounded management strategies that consider biology, ecology, and climate factors to maintain healthy octopus populations for the long term.