Pelagic gillnet modification trials in northern Australian seas

Back | New search
 
Citation: Hembree, D. and Harwood, M.B., 1987. Pelagic gillnet modification trials in northern Australian seas. Report of the International Whaling Commission, 37, ps 369-373.
Publisher address:
Contact information:
Link:
Summary:

Passive acoustic deterrents in the form of chains of metallic beads and air-filled plastic tubing attached to gillnets in Australia did not reduce bycatch of two small cetaceans: the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and Spinner dolphin (Stenella longiristris).

A sub-surface set gillnet (set 4.5 m below the surface) in Australia reduced cetacean catch rate [Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and Spinner dolphin (Stenella longiristris)] when compared to a standard surface set net. The sub-surface net decreased total fish (teleost species: tuna, mackerel, billfish) and shark catch approximately 25%.
Field Studies:
Location Fishing gear Reduction technique Bycatch species Effect on bycatch species Catch Effect on target catch Type
Australia Gillnets Passive acoustic deterrents Small Cetaceans (maximum length < 7.5 meters) Did not reduce bycatch Trout In the wild
Australia Gillnets Sub-surface sets Small Cetaceans (maximum length < 7.5 meters) Reduced bycatch Multiple species Decreased target catch In the wild