E-Bangladesh Desk
The Government of Bangladesh today presented the key findings of the EAF-Nansen Survey 2025, conducted by the internationally renowned research vessel R.V. Dr. Fridtjof Nansen, during a national debriefing session at Hotel Intercontinental. The month-long survey, carried out from 21 August to 21 September 2025 with the participation of 45 scientists, including 13 from Bangladesh, assessed fish stock abundance, biodiversity patterns and environmental conditions in the Bay of Bengal under the FAO–Norway supported EAF-Nansen Programme.
The survey collected 34 CTD stations and 275 water samples, mapped sea surface temperature, salinity, oxygen and fluorescence, and conducted 32 plankton tows identifying 9,794 fish larvae—including tuna larvae—and 418 microplastics. Jellyfish distribution and abundance were documented, and skipjack tuna were recorded both by trawling and hook-and-line inside Bangladesh’s EEZ. Biomass estimates revealed 3,437 tonnes of small pelagics and 911 tonnes of sardines. Trawl sampling recorded approximately 300 fish species, including 65 new records for Bangladesh and five species potentially new to science, supported by 750 high-quality taxonomic photographs. The survey also provided maps of demersal species distribution and strengthened national scientific capacity.
Speaking at the event, Farida Akhter, Hon’ble Adviser, Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, underscored the importance of the findings for sustainable blue-economy planning, noting that “the new Nansen findings will greatly strengthen Bangladesh’s ability to protect and manage its marine resources through scientific evidence.” The survey updates and expands on results from the 2018 mission, employing advanced acoustic and oceanographic technologies to generate critical data for decision-making and the development of future fisheries management plans. Participants also highlighted the strengthened collaboration among the Government of Bangladesh, FAO, and Norway to promote evidence-based governance of marine resources.
Jiaoqun Shi, FAO Representative in Bangladesh, reaffirmed FAO’s commitment, stating, “FAO will continue supporting Bangladesh to use this scientific data for stronger policies and sustainable marine resource management.” Norwegian Ambassador H.E. Håkon Arald Gulbrandsen highlighted Norway’s partnership, saying, “Norway is proud to work with Bangladesh in advancing ocean science and sustainable fisheries—this collaboration reflects our shared commitment to healthy oceans and future generations.”
The session was attended by senior government officials, scientists, development partners and representatives from the Norwegian Embassy, all of whom emphasized the importance of continued research, capacity development and ecosystem-based, science-driven management to ensure long-term benefits for coastal communities and the nation’s marine sector.
