Western Isles shellfish stocks are to be protected through new conservation measures introduced by the Scottish Government.
The controls, which were developed by the local fishing industry, will help to protect the future of crab and lobster catches which are worth around £2.7 million to the local economy every year.
The minimum landing size has been increased so smaller crabs and lobsters will be returned to the sea.
Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "The management measures coming into force
will help in securing the long-
"This order is a great example of what can be accomplished when local fishing interests and government work together, and demonstrates how Scottish fishermen are leading the way in Europe with their commitment to sustainable practices."
Duncan MacInnes, secretary of the Western Isles Fishermen’s Association said: "Increasing shellfish minimum landing size provides predicted increases in yield and egg production which will result in increased profitability for fishermen in the short to medium term."
New rules over catching crab and lobster
2 June 2015