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Impact of derelict fish traps in Caribbean waters: an experimental approach
Author(s): Renchen, G.F., Pittman, S.J., Clark, R., Caldow, C., Gall, S., Olsen, D., AND r. hILL
NCCOS Center: CCMA
Center Team: Biogeography
Publication Type: Journal Article
Journal Title: Bulletin of Marine Science
Date of Publication: 2014
Reference Information:
U.S. Virgin Islands
Abstract: Abstract.—Fish traps are a widely used fishing gear
throughout the Caribbean Sea, but become marine debris
when lost or abandoned, with uncertain impacts to coral
reef ecosystems. Derelict fish traps are thought to cause
fish mortality through unintentional fishing or ghost
fishing; yet no scientific studies have been conducted to
quantify the threat from ghost fishing in Caribbean waters.
Using an experimental approach, 12 unbaited traps were
deployed at nearshore and offshore locations in the US
Virgin Islands to simulate derelict traps. Six traps were set
with escape panels closed (fishing) and six had escape panels
open. Frequent underwater visual surveys of fishes inside
and surrounding traps were conducted to quantify fish
assemblage composition, body size, fish behavior, condition,
and mortality over 6 mo. Twenty mortalities (2% of trapped
fish observed) were documented. All but one mortality
occurred in closed traps with an estimated total market
value of US$160 over 6 mo or US$52 per trap annually.
Skin abrasions were observed on 34 fishes. A permutational
multivariate analysis of variance revealed a significant effect
of time on trapped fish assemblages regardless of the location.
The results demonstrate that ghost fishing does occur, but
that simple modifications to fishing gear such as correctly
functioning escape panels will significantly reduce mortality
from ghost fishing. Further reduction of impact from derelict
traps can be achieved through implementation of land-based
trap disposal programs.
Availability: Online PDF - http://dx.doi.org/10.5343/bms.2012.1103 and in this database
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