Kazakhstan has adopted a new resolution allowing the temporary capture of rare aquatic animals, including the endangered Caspian seal, for scientific research.

Under the plan, 66 Caspian seals will be safely captured, tagged, and later released back into their natural habitat. The research program is scheduled to run from April 27 to December 31, 2026, on islands in the Mangystau and Atyrau regions, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

The Caspian seal is the only marine mammal in the Caspian Sea and is mentioned in the Red List due to its declining population. In recent years, the species has faced growing threats from pollution and repeated mass die-off, raising serious environmental concerns.

The resolution also sets a regulated fee for the temporary capture of each seal, amounting to 1.93 MRP (around 8,300 tenge).

In addition to seals, the document permits the controlled capture of other rare species such as the Aral thorn sturgeon and nelma fish, aimed at breeding and population restoration efforts.