They also recommended more research on crab farming as crab sector falls under high potential sector in terms of economic return compared to other sub-sectors, said a press release.

CARE Bangladesh’ SDC- SHOMOSTI organised the roundtable in the city’s The Daily Star Centre on prospect and challenges of crab cultivation.

Dr Muhammad Abdur Rouf and Dr Md Golam Sarower from Fisheries and Marine Resource Technology (FMRT) discipline of Khulna University shared key findings of their recent research on crab.

Research revealed that the peak breeding season for the mud crab is March-April. At present, there is a ban on the collection of crablets from January to February, which needs to be adjusted in line with the findings of the research.

Representative of the department of forests, fisheries, private sector, including hatchery association and NGOs, took part in the discussion and made recommendations.

SDC Senior Programme Manager Sohel Ibn Ali emphasised supporting crab hatcheries and above all the sector.

“Crab sector falls under high potential sector in terms of economic return in comparison to other sub-sectors,” he said.

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safar Park Project Director Md Jahidul Kabir recommended more research into crab farming and encouraged efforts similar to Hilsa conservation.

“Revision of current ban period has already been proposed to ministry,” he added.

Sundarbans West Forest Division Officer Md Bashirul-Al-Mamun suggested stock assessment for crab.

SDC-SHOMOSHTI is currently reaching out to 180,000 rural households with improved technical services, which will result in higher yields, better prices and increased income.