Viability study examines octopus export potential

Ray Smuts A NEW commodity - the humble common octopus - could feature on South Africa’s future export list if a study into its viability comes up trumps. To most, this not-too-attractive sea creature’s only purpose is for bait at the end of a fishing line, but it is considered a great delicacy in countries like Japan, Spain and Greece, retailing for as much as US$35/kg (R245). The five-year study at eight selected sites along the South African coast from Saldanha to East London will explore the viability of catching, processing and exporting these creatures. Known by its scientific name as Octopus vulgaris, it is an under-exploited species, unlike abalone (perlemoen). At the heart of the study is the use of unbaited ‘pots’, short lengths of piping lowered into the sea to provide a roost for the octopus. Raising the pipes causes the octopus to cling to them. Marine and Coastal Management will issue two permits for each of the experimental sites for a maximum allocation of 2000 pots per permit holder.