The effectiveness of bycatch reduction devices on crab pots at reducing capture and mortality of diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) in Florida

Authors: 
Butler, J.A., Heinrich, G.L.
Year: 
2007
Journal/Publisher Name: 
Estuareis and Coasts
Volume/Issue #: 
30/1
Page #s: 
179-185
Contact information: 
jbutler@unf.edu 904 602-3885
This study determined that 73.2% of diamondback terrapins could have been prevented from entering crab pots if bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) had been used. Additionally, there was no significant difference in the sex, size or number of crabs in pots fitted with BRDs.
Field Studies:
Location Fishing gear Reduction technique Bycatch species Effect on bycatch species Catch Effect on target catch Type
Florida Traps Trap guards (T-bars, otter guards) Sea Turtles The use of bycatch reduction devices would reduce incidental capture of diamondback terrapins Blue crabs No effect on the size, sex or number of crabs caught In the wild