Iran, Islamic Republic of

The findings from investigations of sturgeon fisheries, and information from caviar importers in consuming countries, sturgeon specialists and fisheries agencies are presented. The exploitation of Caspian sturgeons is assessed, as is Caspian caviar production, its regulation or lack thereof, and its impact upon the number of sturgeons remaining. International trade is aslo analysed.

This very first directory of wetlands of one of the most arid zones on earth is intended to increase awareness among decision makers and planners of the consequences of wetland loss and degradation. It will also assist responsible authorities to identify new sites for listing under the Ramsar Convention. The directory consists of a series of national reports describing the principal wetlands in 13 countries.