Mare Monte Region Declared a Marine Protection Zone to Safeguard Fish Breeding

The decision, jointly announced by Uğur Sencer from the Fisheries Branch of the Livestock Department and the Lapta Alsancak Karşıyaka Fishermen's Association, aims to protect biodiversity and ensure the sustainability of local fisheries.

Experts explained that the ban, introduced as part of a regulation enacted three years ago, is vital for protecting the reproductive cycle of marine life in the area. Uğur Sencer highlighted Mare Monte as one of the island’s most critical zones in terms of biodiversity, noting that an artificial reef had already been placed in the area and that another is planned. He stressed that steps to boost biodiversity are ongoing.

Speaking to Kıbrıs TV, experts emphasized that the protection of the region not only enhances marine biodiversity but also creates a significant attraction for diving tourism, thanks to the visual appeal of the artificial reefs.

Support from Local Fishermen

Ertunç Birinci, president of the Lapta Alsancak Karşıyaka Fishermen’s Association, expressed support for the regulation issued by the Ministry of Agriculture. He said they are well-acquainted with the region and have worked with biologists and diving teams to identify a new reef site.

Birinci stated that underwater mapping of the area would soon be completed and that annual monitoring would track changes in fish populations following the protection measures.

He called on all those involved in fishing to support the decision, stressing that the Mare Monte region provides an ideal habitat for Cyprus’s most common fish species to reproduce and thrive — a crucial step to ensure the long-term viability of fishing activities in the region.