An Assessment of Dynamite Fishing Practices and their Ecological Impacts in a Coastal Community in two Area Eastern of Libya

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence and impacts of dynamite fishing practices among fishermen in Tobruk, a coastal community in Libya. Survey data collected from both professional and amateur fishermen revealed that dynamite fishing is a prevalent practice, constituting 52.94% of reported fishing methods, significantly exceeding the use of nets (47.06%) and fishing rods (5.88%). The survey further indicated that October was the peak month for dynamite use, with the depth of explosions varying based on the quantity and type of explosives employed. The widespread use of dynamite poses significant threats to the marine ecosystem. Dynamite explosions result in substantial damage to disrupt crucial fish breeding grounds, and indiscriminately kill marine organisms, leading to a decline in biodiversity and ecological imbalance. These findings highlight the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies and the implementation of sustainable fishing practices in the coastal region of Tobruk.