The catch volume of king crabs in Argentina has increased by up to 20%.

Core tip: Due to the reduction in the escape gap size of half of the crab traps, the catch of Argentine king crabs (centolla) has seen a significant increase this year. According to the analysis by scientists Cecilia Mauna and Carla Firpo from the National Institute of Fisheries Research and Development (INIDEP) in Argentina, this increase not only affects the current fishery yield but also concerns the future recertification process in the central fishing area.

The catch volume increased by 20%, related to adjustments in the escape ring. As of last week, official data showed that the cumulative landing volume of king crabs this year has reached 1,650 tons, an increase of about 20% compared to the same period last year. The main reason for this increase is the technical adjustment of the crab trap (trampas) design. "According to Resolution No. 12 of 2018, the diameter of the escape ring for the traps is specified as 130 millimeters, and this regulation includes most of the fishery management measures. Companies had applied to us for a trial version with a smaller ring diameter—120 millimeters. Since the last fishing season, the pilot project has been launched," explained Philpo. She further pointed out: "This trial was only implemented on half of the traps, which is one of the reasons for the increase in landing volume—the number of commercially viable individuals that could escape has decreased. According to regulations, only male crabs ...