Fish Release Season Launched to Boost Marine Stock

Bahrain has launched a new season for releasing fish into its territorial waters as part of continued efforts to strengthen national food security and support the sustainability of marine resources.

The initiative was inaugurated during an official event organised by the Supreme Council for Environment, attended by the Minister of Oil and Environment and Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, Dr Mohammed bin Mubarak bin Daina. The event marked the start of a structured plan to enrich fish stocks and increase marine production in Bahrain’s waters.

Launch

Speaking at the event, the minister said the Kingdom remains committed to implementing strategic initiatives aimed at developing and sustaining marine wealth, stressing that enhancing fish stocks is a key pillar of food security efforts.

The launch included the start of a programme to release nearly 100,000 juvenile fish during the current year, based on a defined timetable. The event was also attended by the chief executive of the Supreme Council for Environment and the director general of marine resources, alongside technical and administrative teams. 

The minister praised the efforts of the national aquaculture centre team, highlighting the professionalism demonstrated across all production stages leading up to the first release phase. He said the initiative reflects a scientific and carefully planned approach to strengthening marine resources.

Process

The release of juvenile fish was carried out in three stages across selected marine locations chosen in accordance with scientific standards. These locations were identified to ensure suitable environmental conditions for fish growth, feeding, and protection from predators.

The minister noted that all necessary technical and environmental measures were taken to ensure the quality and health of the fish and the success of the release process. Specially equipped boats fitted with air pumps and oxygen cylinders were used to safely transport the juvenile fish from the centre to the designated release sites.

Development

The national aquaculture centre continues to operate on a regular basis to produce fish fingerlings suitable for release into the sea, in addition to species preferred in the local market. This approach aims to reduce pressure on natural fishing grounds, increase fish stocks, and support sustainable development goals.

The centre has achieved notable milestones, including the first production of meid fish in the Gulf region in 2023, followed by bayah fish in 2024 and shaam fish in 2025, reinforcing Bahrain’s long term strategy to protect and replenish marine resources.