International trade · 20/05/2026

NMFS Prohibits Retention of Mobulid Rays in Fisheries for Atlantic Highly Migratory Species

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is implementing the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) Recommendation 24-12 by prohibiting the retention of mobulid rays in fisheries for Atlantic highly migratory species (HMS), requiring their release unharmed, and establishing handling practices for vessels using pelagic longline gear.