Atlantic Highly Migratory Species: Prohibit Retention of Mobulid Rays in Fisheries for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species
Summary
The federal government is proposing a new rule that would ban fishing boats from keeping mobulid rays (a type of large ocean ray) when they're fishing for other ocean species in the Atlantic. This rule aims to protect these rays from being caught and killed accidentally, since mobulid rays are vulnerable to overfishing and play an important role in ocean ecosystems.
Key Points
- 1Fishing boats would be required to release any mobulid rays they catch instead of keeping them
- 2The rule applies to commercial and recreational fisheries targeting highly migratory species like tuna and billfish in Atlantic waters
- 3Mobulid rays (including devil rays and manta rays) are threatened by overfishing and face extinction in some areas
- 4Fishermen have until September 23, 2025 to submit comments supporting or opposing the proposed rule
- 5If approved, the regulation would take effect after the comment period ends and NOAA reviews public feedback
Key Dates
August 22, 2025
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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