Mallorca lobster fishing draws 130 experts to Cala Rajada

Mallorca’s lobster fishery draws an international gathering: around 130 people from 17 countries are meeting in Cala Rajada, Mallorca, from 11 to 16 October to discuss how large crustaceans are studied, protected and managed. On Wednesday, fishermen will join the discussion about how the catches are managed and sold.

Science meets the fishing boat

The programme covers red spiny lobsters, lobsters and other large crustaceans. Researchers will examine fishing, reproduction, disease and climate change. A separate session will focus on the blue crab, an invasive species in the Mediterranean.

The Spanish Institute of Oceanography and the Balearic Institute for Agri-food and Fisheries Research and Training have organised the conference. The Balearic Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and the Natural Environment says it will bring together recent research on the species.

Why the Balearic catch matters

The Balearic Islands are the only region of Spain with a fishery specifically targeting spiny lobsters, according to Balearic agriculture and fisheries minister Joan Simonet. The catch is closely tied to small-scale fishing and has a seven-month closed season. Since 2025, the fishing sector, scientists and the authorities have shared responsibility for its management.

On Wednesday, fishermen, producer organisations, scientists and fisheries managers will compare their approaches at a workshop and international panel. They will discuss managing, marketing and certifying large-crustacean fisheries.

Topics: Nature & wildlife · Environment · Capdepera

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com