Here is an exert from the Victorian management plan:
Quote:DEVELOPMENTAL FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PLAN
FISHERIES DIVISION - DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT
JELLYFISH - (Catostylus mosaicus) 2003 - 2005
1. Background
Dried jellyfish (sold mostly in dried discs of 30 â 40 cm in diameter) is a highly
regarded food item in many Asian countries, especially in Japan where it is
considered to be a delicacy. Traditionally, jellyfish are a food source comprising
low fat and high protein qualities, which are recognised for their health qualities.
The basis of quality assessment is on size, texture, colour and especially in Japan
the crunchiness of the dry salted product.
The Chinese and Japanese jellyfish markets are currently supplied with catch taken
in Thailand, Malaysia and China, but increasing demand has created opportunities
for Australian involvement. Market research indicates a shortage in both Chinese
and Japanese markets and importers could accept 1000 processed tonnes (10,000
wet tonnes) at USD $8-10 (AUS $13 - $16) per wholesale processed kilo (Grade B
product). The demand for jellyfish product is growing by 25% per annum.
The Rhizostome jellyfish Catostylus mosaicus is an Australian (Eastern and
Northern seaboards) native species and is often found in large numbers in
Victoria's bays and inlets. This species has been shown through marketing trials
carried out by David Glory Group Pty Ltd to be acceptable to the Asian market.
Estimates indicate that several thousand tonnes can be taken during some years
from Port Phillip, Western Port and Corner Inlet. The developmental fishery was
activated in 1999 following the release of the report titled "Feasibility Study for
the Development of a Commercial Jellyfish Fishery in Port Phillip Bay, Victoria,
MAFRI, (November 1997)". The report indicated that in Port Phillip Bay alone
there is a biomass of C. mosaicus ranging from 5,000 to 30,000 tonnes during the
summer and autumn months from February to June.
More recent MAFRI research suggests that the abundance is extremely variable. In 2001 the commercial biomass ranged from 7,500 wet tonnes to 17,000 wet tonnes. In 2001 this was down by 80%. Initial
indications are that the species was most abundant in Port Phillip Bay and Corner
Inlet. Stock abundance are likely to be connected to water temperature and
salinity.