On 19th November 2014, during routine restaurant inspections, the Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources field Officers, in collaboration with the Royal Anguilla Police Force Marine Base confiscated a total of 82lbs of Caribbean spiny lobster (Panulirus argus) from three restaurants. 56lbs from one, Hotels 18lbs from a second restaurant and 8lbs from a third. The lobsters were caught and sold to the restaurants by local fishers for US$10.00 per pound. The total value of the confiscated lobsters was US$820.00.
It is an offense to take or be in possession of lobsters that have a carapace length of less than 95mm, a tail weight less than 200g, lobsters or cray fish (Panulirus guttatus) that are egg bearing, soft shelled, tar spotted, or have been caught by the use of a spear gun, harpoon or hook. Persons convicted can be liable to a fine of EC$5,000.00 and/or imprisonment for one month.
The Department of Fisheries will continue its efforts to suppress the sale of illegal lobsters, by executing ad hoc visits to restaurants, fish landing sites and inspections at the ports for the export of lobsters. Authorities in St. Martin/St. Maarten are also working along with the authorities in Anguilla. The Department wishes to advise fishers, vendors and consumers to be vigilant and mindful of fisheries regulations when fishing for, selling or purchasing lobsters.
The measures being taken by the Department are geared towards the conservation of the species. If there are any questions or concerns please contact the Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources at 264-497-2871 or email fisheriesmr@gov.ai.
