The Gulf of Mottama (GoM) is facing a concerning decline in fish species catches, which has experienced a significant reduction in abundance since the early 2000s. This decline is attributed to overfishing, illegal practices, and habitat degradation caused by sand mining and infrastructure development along rivers. The urgency of conserving fishery resources has led to the planning on establishment of fish conservation zones or community-based fishery management areas, necessitating comprehensive knowledge of spawning areas and seasons of economically important fish species.

The project aimed to assess spawning areas through interviews with local communities and inform fishery conservation actions in collaboration with them. Fisher responses revealed distinct fishing periods for different fish species, aiding in understanding their reproductive cycles and guiding sustainable fishing practices.

The study interviewed 97 active fishers from eight villages from Mon State in the Gulf of Mottama. The primary fishing periods for Pama croaker and Mango fish were from May to August, while mullets were targeted from October to March. Hilsa shad were targeted from September to February, and Sillago appeared primarily from August to September.

The study identifies key spawning and nursery areas for economically significant fish species in the Gulf of Martaban (GoM) and presents insights into their spawning seasons. In the lower part of the Sittaung River, fisher responses highlight its significance as a vital spawning and nursery ground for economically important fish species, including Hilsa shad, Pama croaker, and Mango fish. Around Koe Tae Su Village, it is noted for its brackish waters and tidal currents, where Pama croaker and Mango fish use the area for spawning. The mudflats around Ma Mauk Village are suggested as feeding and hiding grounds, potentially used by fish on their way from the sea to upstream regions. At the convergence of Sittaung River and Bilin River, it serves as a migratory route for spawning species. The areas around mudflats of Thaton and tidal current along Paung also play roles in fish migration and nursery habitats. In terms of spawning seasons, Pama Croaker and Mango fish exhibited peak spawning in May. Mullet spawning was consistent from January to April, and Hilsa Shad spawning peaked in January. Sillago spawning activity was minimal, with sporadic responses concentrated in August and September. Therefore, the study provides valuable insights into the spawning areas and seasonal patterns of the five important fish species in the Gulf, aiding sustainable fishing practices and conservation efforts.

Overall, the study provides essential information on economically important fish species' spawning areas and seasons in the GoM, supporting evidence-based fishery management and conservation actions with the participation of local communities. The suggestions include conducting a community validation workshop to share research findings and refine understanding of spawning areas and seasons, as well as conducting fish larval surveys in specific regions like the mouth of the Sittaung River and Bilin River to improve knowledge of spawning patterns. The study also advocates for assessing hydrological changes in the Gulf to inform fish migration and conservation strategies. To enhance fishery management, the study suggests establishing community-based mechanisms to counter illegal fishing practices, enforcing closed fishing seasons for sustainable fish populations, creating community-led Fish Conservation Zones (FCZs) in critical areas, and promoting community awareness through accessible information systems to foster local engagement in conservation and sustainable fishing practices. By addressing threats and preserving fishery resources, the research aims to safeguard the livelihoods of small-scale fishers and maintain the ecological integrity in the Gulf of Mottama.