Thai and Norwegian marine researchers have taken part in a major survey that identified 65 marine species recorded for the first time in Bangladesh. Of these, five species may be new to science, according to preliminary results from the EAF-Nansen Survey 2025.
The survey was carried out in Bangladesh’s entire exclusive economic zone, covering 118,813 square kilometres. A 40-member team of experts from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Norway and FAO conducted biological sampling, species documentation and larval identification.
Norway’s role included support from Norad and participation by Dr Erik Olsen from Norway’s Institute of Marine Research. The survey was presented at an event in Dhaka co-organised by FAO, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, and Norad.
Thai specialists were part of the international research crew working on oceanographic measurements, fisheries trawling and studies of plankton, jellyfish and microplastics. The team reached depths of up to 730 metres, deeper than previous national surveys.
Bangladeshi officials said the 2018 and 2025 EAF-Nansen findings will inform new fisheries management, conservation strategies and long-term policies for coastal communities. The work also highlights growing Nordic–Asia cooperation on sustainable marine resources and ocean research in the Bay of Bengal region.
