Assessment of Morphometric Characteristics and Conservation Challenges of Pteroplatytrygon Violacea (Bonaparte, 1832) in Libyan Waters

The pelagic stingray Pteroplatytrygon violacea, a vulnerable species with limited protection measures, is an incidental catch in both artisanal and industrial Libyan fisheries. This study examines the morphome-tric characteristics and conservation challenges faced by this species in Libyan waters, aiming to enhance knowledge of its biological attributes and inform future conservation efforts. A mature female specimen was collected off the coast of Tripoli, Libya, and analysed for its morphometric parameters, including total weight, disc width, and various head measurements. The specimen had a total weight of 1519 g, a total length of 92.5 cm, and a disc width of 39.3 cm. Conservation risks to P. violacea are high due to bycatch in longline fisheries targeting species such as tuna and swordfish, as well as additional pressures from trawling and gillnetting. The species, listed as threatened by the IUCN, has not yet benefitted from targeted conservation measures. This research underscores the importance of establishing species-specific conservation initiatives, including detailed population assessments and bycatch monitoring, to address the threats facing P. violacea in Libyan waters.