(Aug 2015) This is a pilot project in the south of Mauritius with the objective of making the octopus fishing more sustainable by allowing pregnant females to lay their eggs, which will lead to a weight increase of the individuals. It will in turn prove to the communities the benefits they can get out of this.

The project is being carried out with the support of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) programmes SmartFish and Biodiversity, funded by the EU.

Phase one has consisted of a feasibility study in the selected area of Le Morne-Souillac. Phase two is the actual implementation of the closure, 10 Aug-10 Oct 2015. It includes awareness and education as well as enforcement during the closure in cooperation with local fishermen, the NCG and FPS.