Mozambique
Myers, M.; Whittington, M. (2000). Mozambique, in: Sheppard, C.R.C. (Ed.) Seas at the millennium: an environmental evaluation: 2. Regional chapters: The Indian Ocean to The Pacific. pp. 99-112
In: Sheppard, C.R.C. (Ed.) (2000). Seas at the millennium: an environmental evaluation: 2. Regional chapters: The Indian Ocean to The Pacific. Pergamon: Amsterdam. ISBN 0-08-043207-7. XXI, 920 pp., more
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Document type: Review
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| Authors | | Top |
- Myers, M.
- Whittington, M.
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| Abstract |
Mozambique, with its huge coasline, has an extensive territorial sea and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) with considerable economic value and significant biodiversity. The landmass of Madagascar shelters the coast from the Indian Ocean, so the marine environment is low-energy with high tidal ranges, warm water and a predominantly narrow continental shelf. Several island chains also run along the coast for some of its length, from the Quirimbas in the tropical north through the Bazaruto Islands in the central section, to Inhaca Island in the sub-tropical south. Fringing coral reefs are typical of this coast, while mangroves, seagrass beds and rocky and sandy shores are also common. Generally, all these habitats are in very good condition. Industrial activity is very limited but increasing; marine pollution is not yet a significant concern in Mozambique, but chronic pollution is probably increasing, partly as a result of the upstream activities of its neighbours. High volumes of tanker traffic move up and down this coast and there is consequently a high risk of accidental spillage of hydrocarbons. Lack of funds and technical expertise limit marine and coastal conservation initiatives. Mozambique has recently put in place the legislative and institutional framework for good governance of the coast, but the structures are largely untested. There is capacity in some fish stocks to support greater fishing effort, while others are known to be over-fished. Prawn fishing in particular is an important source of national income. It is vital that government follows through on several promising measures initiated thus far, for conservation and for the sustainable development of coastal systems. |
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