Sistan-Baluchestan - The Chabahar Deep-Sea Fisheries Research Center has announced the export of 700 tons of sea snails from Iran’s southeastern Sistan and Baluchestan Province.

 

According to the center’s head, Ashkan Ajdari, the research team has achieved two major milestones namely the management and export of sea snails and the production of algae seedlings through tissue culture.

 

“These advances support marine research, genetic resource conservation, and the creation of new markets for southern Iran’s aquatic products,” he said.

 

Ajdari noted that Chabahar serves as a key base for studying marine resources across the Indian Ocean. He explained that sea snails, though not consumed domestically for religious reasons, are highly valued internationally.

 

“Their shells, rich in nano-scale calcium carbonate, are used in various industries, including medicine.”

 

He added that based on Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) assessments, the allowable catch for the region has been set, enabling sustainable harvesting. Last year’s exports were sold at $4–5 per kilogram on the global market.

 

Ajdari expressed hope that with continued research and investor support, marine algae will become a new commercial resource, driving employment and sustainable growth along Iran’s southern coasts.