Torres Strait Trochus Fishery

The Torres Strait Trochus (Trochus niloticus) Fishery is a small, single-species commercial and subsistence fishery. The fishery however, is an important source of income for some Islanders, especially women and children. The level of participation in the fishery is relatively low at present, largely due to a decline in overseas market demand for shells in button manufacture. The fishery however, was historically an important source of income for the region between 1920-1950 and more recently in the 1980's.

Trochus is usually taken by freediving, although SCUBA and hookah may also be used. Fishers operate from dories/dinghies with a crew of 2 or 3. Reef top collection of trochus is also possible at low tide.

Condition of the fishery

The status of trochus stocks in the TSPZ is uncertain at present. Fishery participants are comprised of Australian Traditional Inhabitants only.

Activity in the fishery is relatively low at present compared to historic levels although small catches continue to be taken from the central and eastern Islands. The level of catch is unknown.

Management objectives

Objectives adopted for the Torres Strait Trochus Fishery are:

• to manage the resource so as to achieve optimum utilisation;
• to maximise opportunities for Traditional Inhabitants of Australia; and
• to encourage Traditional Inhabitants of the Torres Strait to participate in the Trochus Fishery.

Management arrangements

In the Torres Strait Trochus Fishery, participation in this fishery is limited to Traditional Inhabitants so as to maximise their opportunities.

Management regulation

• The taking of trochus is restricted to hand collection or by hand-held non-mechanical implements.
• The use of underwater breathing apparatus is permitted.
• A minimum size limit of 80 millimetres and maximum size limit of 125 millimetres applies to all fishing (except traditional).
• The total allowable catch for the TSPZ is 150 tonnes.

Page last updated 20 June, 2008