Abu dhabi: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced a groundbreaking scientific discovery; the documentation of a second spawning season for kingfish in Abu Dhabi, occurring from September to November 2025, in addition to the main known spawning season, which runs from April to June each year.
According to Emirates News Agency, this discovery enhances the understanding of the life cycle of this important species and contributes to the sustainable management of fisheries in Abu Dhabi. The discovery resulted from a long-standing research programme examining the reproductive patterns of kingfish in the emirate, where samples were continuously collected and analysed in EAD’s laboratories to understand their behaviour and accurately document the seasons in which reproduction occurs.
Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, stated that the documentation of a second spawning season for kingfish represents a strategic achievement in fish stock management. This aligns with the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, to foster scientific research and strengthen the long-term sustainability of marine resources. She emphasized that this discovery provides a more precise understanding of spawning cycles and reinforces the scientific foundations of the analytical models that inform their policies.
Ahmed Esmaeil Alhashmi, Executive Director of Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity at EAD, highlighted that this scientific discovery is crucial in enhancing their knowledge of the biology of kingfish in the local marine environment. It also offers insights into their reproductive cycles, opening avenues for developing policies and legislation aimed at protecting this species and its spawning grounds in the emirate’s waters.
The kingfish, known for its migratory nature, exists in small groups at various depths. The existence of two spawning seasons reveals significant biological resilience, helping to replenish their stocks in the Arabian Gulf. This discovery enhances prospects for sustainable management through the application of precise and scientifically based fishing regulations.
As part of its integrated research programme for kingfish, EAD conducts qualitative studies, including DNA analysis, to understand the genetic and biological characteristics of the species. In 2023, the agency launched an innovative satellite tracking project, the first of its kind globally, involving tracking devices to provide accurate data on movements, migration routes, and spawning periods, thus strengthening strategies for sustainable fisheries management.