Large numbers of stingrays, locally known as pittan, are being hunted along Karachi’s coastline, raising concerns among marine experts over the potential impact on their population and the wider coastal ecosystem.
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According to experts, stingrays are being caught in significant numbers as fishermen cast nets close to the shore rather than venturing into deeper waters.
Why Are Stingrays Moving Closer to Karachi’s Shore?
Experts have identified several possible reasons for the increased presence of stingrays near the coastline.
Strong sea waves during the monsoon season may push the marine animals towards shallow waters. Experts also believe stingrays move closer to the shore during breeding periods.
Another possible reason is the presence of larger predators in deeper waters. Moving into shallow areas may help stingrays protect themselves and their young.
Their natural colour also provides effective camouflage, as it closely resembles coastal sand, making them difficult to spot in shallow waters.
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Stingrays also approach the shore in search of food. During the monsoon, cockles and other shellfish can be washed towards the coastline, while ghost crabs provide another potential food source.
A significant increase in stingray populations has reportedly been observed in the waters of Sindh and Balochistan over the past several years.
However, experts have warned that continued large-scale hunting could threaten their population, particularly if the animals are being caught during their breeding season.
Moazzam Khan, Technical Adviser at WWF-Pakistan, had earlier said that large-scale hunting of stingrays was taking place along the coasts of Karachi and Balochistan.
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Khan said an increase in the stingray population had been observed over the past few years, but warned that some species, particularly stingrays with leopard-like markings, could face the risk of local extinction.
He noted that stingrays are generally not consumed in Pakistan because of their unpleasant taste.
According to Khan, however, stingrays are exported to Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, while exports of stingray “wings” have increased over the past 12 years.
He warned that indiscriminate hunting could disrupt marine biodiversity and negatively affect the wider marine ecosystem.
Pollution Adds Pressure to Karachi Coast
The reported hunting of stingrays comes amid growing environmental pressure on Karachi’s coastline.
Plastic bottles, wrappers and other waste can be seen along parts of the shoreline, adding to concerns about marine pollution.
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Recent observations along the coast have also included dead marine wildlife, including a turtle, while similar sightings have reportedly increased along coastal stretches of Sindh and Balochistan.
Experts say continued hunting, pollution and other pressures could pose risks to marine biodiversity and underline the need for greater protection of coastal wildlife.
