Mass stingray hunting along Balochistan coast raises fears for marine biodiversity

Large-scale hunting of stingrays along the coastal areas of Balochistan and Karachi is raising concerns about the impact on marine biodiversity and the balance of the region’s ecosystem according to a technical adviser to WWF-Pakistan.

Large-scale hunting of stingrays along the coastal areas of Balochistan and Karachi is raising concerns about the impact on marine biodiversity and the balance of the region’s ecosystem according to a technical adviser to WWF-Pakistan.

WWF-Pakistan technical adviser Moazzam Khan said stingrays, locally known as “Paiten,” are being hunted extensively in coastal areas. He warned that uncontrolled fishing and growing trade in stingrays could pose a threat to marine ecosystems.

According to Khan, the population of stingrays has also increased in recent years. However, he cautioned that certain species, including stingrays with leopard-like patterns, could face a risk of extinction at the local level if hunting continues without effective controls.

Stingray meat is reportedly not widely preferred for consumption in Pakistan. However, the species is exported to countries including Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia creating an international market for stingray products.

Khan said exports of stingray “wings” have increased over the past 12 years contributing to a rise in hunting activities along Pakistan’s coast. The growing demand for these parts has raised concerns among environmental experts about the long-term sustainability of stingray populations.

Stingrays are an important component of marine ecosystems and play a role in maintaining ecological balance. A significant decline in their populations could potentially affect the wider marine food chain and biodiversity.

Environmental experts have therefore emphasized the need for stronger monitoring of stingray fishing and trade. Effective management measures could help prevent excessive exploitation while allowing coastal communities to continue their legitimate fishing activities.

The issue also highlights broader concerns about the sustainable management of Pakistan’s marine resources. Balochistan has a long coastline and supports a diverse range of marine species making conservation and responsible fishing important for both the environment and coastal livelihoods.

Khan stressed that indiscriminate hunting of stingrays could have consequences beyond the species itself. Any major disruption to marine biodiversity may affect the wider ecosystem and its ability to remain healthy and productive.

The increasing export trade also makes regulation particularly important, as demand in international markets can encourage greater fishing pressure on marine species.

Authorities and relevant stakeholders may need to strengthen data collection, monitor landings and exports, and assess the population status of different stingray species before deciding on appropriate conservation measures.

The concerns raised by WWF-Pakistan add to growing calls for sustainable fishing practices along Pakistan’s coastline. Protecting marine biodiversity while supporting fishing communities will remain a key challenge for coastal authorities.

With stingray hunting reportedly increasing alongside international demand experts say closer monitoring and effective management are necessary to prevent potential damage to Pakistan’s marine ecosystem.