Dr. Sachinandan Dutta currently works as an Associate Professor at the Department of Marine Science and Fisheries, College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, where he teaches Fisheries Management. With a diverse educational background ranging from Zoology to Conservation Biology, Oceanography, and Fisheries Management, Dr. Dutta holds a Ph.D. in Ecosystem Modeling and Fisheries Management from Jadavpur University, India. His research interests lie in Fisheries Management, Fish Stock Assessment, Marine Pollution, Artificial Reefs, Marine Ecosystem Modeling, and Marine Ecology, focusing on the sustainable management of marine resources. Dr. Dutta has a rich academic and professional portfolio, including teaching positions, research projects, and consultancy roles. He has published 50 peer-reviewed papers in international journals. He was awarded the UNESCO- Man and Biosphere (MAB) Young Scientists Award for 2022 from Oman. He also serves as an International Sectoral Expert in Fisheries and Marine Resources at United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). He was also involved different groups of FAO such as Bay of Bengal Large Marine Ecosystem (BOBLME), State of Stock (SOS).

Artificial Reefs and Fisheries: Towards a Sustainable Approach Artificial reefs are increasingly used worldwide to enhance fish stocks and support coastal livelihoods. In Oman’s Al-Batinah region, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) has deployed over 18,000 modular artificial reef (MAR) units since 2003, aiming to boost fisheries production and reduce reliance on traditional artificial reefs (TARs) made from environmentally harmful materials. This study evaluates the ecological, social, and economic performance of artificial reef initiatives in the Sea of Oman. Ecological modeling using Ecopath with Ecosim identified 38 fish species across 140 km², indicating a developing but immature reef ecosystem. Social surveys revealed that while most fishermen recognize the role of MARs in enhancing fishery production, many continue to rely on TARs due to accessibility and location preferences. Economically, the reefs provide substantial recreational value, generating an estimated annual consumer surplus of 187,763 OMR (USD 487,727). The findings highlight both the potential and current limitations of artificial reef programs. To ensure long term sustainability, the study recommends stricter regulation of reef use, increased awareness among fishing communities, and balanced investment in artificial reef expansion alongside protection of natural reefs. Keywords: Artificial reefs, Fisheries management, Ecopath with Ecosim Oman, Sustainable development