Al Ashkharah: A whale was found dead on the shores of Al Ashkharah in South Al Sharqiyah this week, after becoming fatally entangled in fishing nets — yet another example of the growing threat marine debris poses to wildlife along Oman’s coasts.
According to an initial examination, the whale had a rope tightly wrapped around its body, which restricted its movement and ultimately prevented it from breathing. The entanglement is believed to have originated from discarded or lost fishing gear drifting in the water — a recurring hazard in Omani waters.
Environmental experts say such cases underscore the dangers of ghost gear — abandoned fishing nets and ropes that continue to trap, injure, and kill marine animals long after they’ve been discarded. Large marine mammals like whales are especially vulnerable due to their size and the distances they travel.
After the carcass was discovered by locals, the Environment Authority was notified and dispatched a team to handle the situation. The authority confirmed the cause of death and carried out standard procedures for carcass removal.
In a statement, the Environment Authority reiterated calls for fishermen and sea-goers to properly dispose of fishing gear and avoid polluting marine environments. Officials warned that irresponsible dumping not only threatens marine life but also disrupts delicate ocean ecosystems.
Marine conservationists have long pushed for stronger regulations, more rigorous cleanup efforts, and better education around the impact of ghost nets. As cases like this continue to surface, pressure is mounting for immediate action to protect Oman’s marine biodiversity from further decline.
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