Bycatch Reduction: Innovations for a Healthier Ocean

Fortunately, innovative solutions are emerging to address the problem of bycatch and promote healthier oceans. This article will explore some of the most promising technologies and strategies that are being developed and implemented to reduce bycatch.

1. Selective Fishing Gear

One of the most effective ways to reduce bycatch is by using selective fishing gear. Traditional fishing gear, such as gillnets and longlines, often catch non-target species indiscriminately. However, advancements in technology have led to the development of more selective fishing gear.

For example, the use of acoustic deterrent devices (ADDs) in gillnets can help deter marine mammals and seabirds from approaching the nets. These devices emit sound signals that are unpleasant to these species, effectively reducing their bycatch rates.

Additionally, the use of circle hooks instead of J-hooks in longline fishing can significantly reduce the bycatch of sea turtles and seabirds. The circular design of circle hooks makes it more difficult for these animals to swallow the bait, minimizing the risk of entanglement or ingestion.

2. Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs)

Turtle excluder devices (TEDs) are innovative devices designed to prevent sea turtles from getting trapped in shrimp trawlers’ nets. These devices consist of a grid-like structure that allows smaller sea animals, like shrimp, to pass through the net while excluding larger marine turtles.

TEDs have been proven to be highly effective in reducing sea turtle bycatch, and their use is now mandated by law in many countries with shrimp trawling industries. Implementing TEDs has significantly reduced the number of sea turtles caught as bycatch, contributing to the preservation of these endangered species.

3. Bird Scaring Lines and Tori Lines

Seabirds are particularly vulnerable to bycatch, as they are attracted to fishing operations and can become entangled in fishing gear or inadvertently caught on hooks. To address this issue, bird scaring lines and tori lines are being utilized.

Bird scaring lines are simple lines attached to fishing vessels and equipped with streamers or flags. These lines create a visual deterrence, scaring seabirds away from the fishing gear. Tori lines, on the other hand, are extended lines hung behind the vessel and rigged with a series of colorful and reflective streamers. They create a visual barrier that prevents seabirds from approaching the fishing gear.

Both bird scaring lines and tori lines have shown promising results in reducing seabird bycatch in longline fisheries. By implementing these simple and cost-effective measures, fishing vessels can significantly decrease the number of seabirds accidentally caught during fishing operations.

4. Real-Time Monitoring and Surveillance

Advancements in technology have enabled the development of real-time monitoring and surveillance systems to detect and mitigate bycatch. These systems utilize the power of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and satellite technology to track and analyze fishing activities.

For example, electronic monitoring systems with video cameras are being used on fishing vessels to monitor and record fishing operations. These cameras capture footage of the fishing gear and the surrounding area, allowing for identification and quantification of bycatch species. By analyzing the footage, fisheries managers can gain insights into the effectiveness of bycatch reduction measures and make informed decisions to further minimize bycatch.

Satellite-based vessel monitoring systems (VMS) are also instrumental in monitoring fishing activities and preventing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. By tracking the movements of fishing vessels, authorities can identify areas with high bycatch rates and take appropriate action to mitigate the problem.

5. Innovative Fishing Techniques

In addition to technological advancements, innovative fishing techniques are being explored to reduce bycatch. These techniques aim to modify fishing operations in ways that minimize the risk of unintended catch.

For example, the use of underwater LED lights in fishing operations has shown promising results in reducing bycatch. Studies have found that illuminating the fishing gear with LED lights can attract target species while repelling non-target species. This simple yet effective technique can significantly reduce the bycatch of certain species, such as sharks and rays.

Furthermore, innovations in fishing nets, such as the use of square mesh panels or sorting grids, have demonstrated their ability to separate target species from non-target species. By allowing smaller individuals or non-target species to escape through the mesh or grids, these modifications can greatly reduce bycatch rates.

Conclusion

Bycatch poses a significant threat to the health and biodiversity of our oceans. However, through innovation and technological advancements, we have the potential to mitigate this issue and promote healthier oceans.

Selective fishing gear, such as acoustic deterrent devices and circle hooks, can greatly reduce the unintended catch of non-target species. Devices like turtle excluders (TEDs) have been proven effective in reducing sea turtle bycatch, and the use of bird scaring lines and tori lines can prevent seabird entanglement in fishing gear. Real-time monitoring and surveillance systems allow for data-driven decision-making and enable targeted bycatch reduction measures. Furthermore, innovative fishing techniques, including the use of LED lights and modified fishing nets, show promise in reducing unintended catch.

The continued development and implementation of these innovative solutions are crucial for the future of our oceans. By reducing bycatch, we can protect vulnerable species, preserve ecosystem balance, and contribute to the overall health of our marine environments.