Articles tagged with Fishing
Research finds that humpback whales face a higher risk of getting entangled in fishing equipment during years with lower availability of cool-water habitat. The Habitat Compression Index can predict ocean conditions up to a year in advance, suggesting its potential as an early warning system for fishery management decisions.
A new study suggests that releasing pollack closer to their natural catch depths can significantly improve their chances of survival. The research found that releasing fish at these depths can increase survival rates from 56% to over 80%. This could have a positive impact on the long-term sustainability of recreational pollack fisheries.
A recent study found that the Yangtze River fishing ban has halted seven decades of biodiversity decline, triggering an initial recovery in fish resources. Key indicators such as biomass, body condition, and species diversity have shown significant improvement after full enforcement of the ban.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed a patent-pending shark deterrent that can be used to reduce bycatch in fisheries. The device produces an electric field that repels sharks from bait without affecting target fish, and has been shown to reduce catches of coastal sharks by 62-70%.
McGill researchers found that freshwater browning is stunting some fish species' growth, shrinking others' populations, and altering fish communities. This phenomenon has broad impacts on biodiversity, affecting economically important fish species such as northern pike and walleye.
A UK study found that over 40% of consumers are willing to try new fish species, including sardines and anchovies. The research highlights the potential for improving national health and local economies by embracing home-caught seafood. It also reveals a generational divide in seafood consumption habits.
A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that most sharks in UK waters survive catch-and-release fishing when angling best practices are followed. The study tracked the behaviour and survival of over 70 blue, porbeagle, and tope sharks caught in recreational fishing in the British Isles.
A new method to recycle PA-66, a type of polymer found in fishing nets and automotive parts, has been developed. The process involves introducing melamine into melted waste, resulting in a nylon material with improved properties that can be reprocessed up to three times.
Researchers find that farmed totoaba could alleviate poaching pressures by establishing a regulated trade. The study suggests that a market-based solution may be more effective than a regulatory approach in curbing poaching. A $6 million subsidy program could make farming cheaper and prevent further decline of the wild population.
A team of researchers led by Professor Hiroki Obata reconstructed the structure of prehistoric fishing nets from ancient pottery using X-ray CT. The study revealed a rich diversity in net-making techniques between regions and highlighted the importance of sustainability practices in ancient cultures.
Researchers will analyze genetic diversity and structure of four key sponge species to enhance resilience in restored populations. The project aims to build ecological resilience in vulnerable marine environments through a genetics-based approach.
A new study reveals that dried fish is an overlooked yet vital source of nutrition for millions of people across Africa, particularly for young children and women. The research found that even small portions of dried fish contribute significantly to recommended nutrient intakes for essential minerals like iron and zinc.
A study analyzing four decades of Italian cetacean strandings reveals that bottlenose and striped dolphins are most commonly impacted by fishery interactions. The research, published in PLOS One, highlights the need for conservation efforts to mitigate these effects.
A new study reveals that increased scrutiny of domestic fishing fleets at ports could help deter illegal fishing. The Port State Measures Agreement, which requires foreign vessels to undergo inspections when landing their fish in a country, has led to more vessels traveling longer distances to reach ports within countries that have rat...
A new study found that as more countries adopted the internationally binding Port State Measures Agreement, foreign fishing vessels needed to travel twice as far to reach a non-PSMA country. Meanwhile, domestic vessels' share of port visits globally rose from 31% in 2016 to 46% in 2021.
The Leopoldina webinar discusses the conditions and practical recommendations for sustainable freshwater aquaculture in Germany and Brazil. The report highlights the potential of this method to contribute significantly to global food security, reduce water and land consumption, and promote a circular economy.
A study analyzing data from 2002 to 2022 found a 50% decline in economic gains from fishing due to the introduction of exotic species. The size of native fish decreased, while invasive species increased in body size and abundance.
A Brazilian study maps the direct and indirect impacts of marine resource-dependent economic activities, revealing strong connections between coastal and inland regions. The research highlights the importance of the blue economy in Brazil's GDP and employment, with regional specializations varying across states.
Researchers found that live well temperatures fluctuate drastically during tournaments, causing physiological stress and longer recovery times for largemouth bass. This study highlights the importance of optimizing live well conditions to minimize mortality rates and ensure sustainable fisheries.
Researchers developed a model to detect early signs of marsh decline using satellite observations, identifying vulnerable areas along Georgia's coast. The study found belowground biomass has declined across 72% of Georgia's coastal marsh since 2014.
A study analyzing online seizure records found over 300 seizures of dried seahorses in 62 countries, with most occurring in transit or destination countries. The illicit trade is estimated to be worth CAD$29 million over 10 years, and emerging routes involve Europe and Latin America.
A study by the University of Exeter and Fishtek Marine found that illuminated pots caught significantly more northern shrimp and attracted fish, raising hopes for sustainable fisheries. The 'attraction cascade' creates a self-baiting pot, potentially leading to new low-impact trap fisheries.
Scientists have discovered a Triassic-era fossil with an elongated jaw structure, similar to modern-day pike and needlefish. The findings suggest that different species independently evolved similar jaws hundreds of millions of years apart, highlighting the universal problem-solving strategies in nature.
A mysterious parasite is devastating fish farms globally, causing £50 million in losses annually. Researchers have discovered a new gene regulation process that could lead to the development of gene-based vaccines.
A new study reveals how proactive salmon conservation in the North Pacific can protect biodiversity and advance global conservation goals. The stronghold strategy aims to proactively protect iconic salmon systems that sustain healthy watersheds, safeguarding food security and mitigating climate change.
A recent study published in the ICES Journal of Marine Science reveals that bigeye tuna, yellowfin tuna, and swordfish source between 50-60% of their diet from the twilight zone. This suggests that any changes to the twilight zone's food web could have profound implications for these fisheries.
Researchers say the amount of carbon released by seabed fishing worldwide is uncertain and must be urgently investigated. The Convex Seascape Survey found that vessel and gear sizes vary greatly from country to country, leading to large inaccuracies in global estimates.
Marine animals are being used to gather valuable data on human impact on the ocean. Biologging, attaching sensors to wild animals, provides insights into environmental conditions and behaviors. The goal is to develop an 'Internet of Animals' with shared standards for data sharing, enabling targeted policies and a sustainable coexistence.
Retention bans are a good first step in addressing shark overfishing, but won't be enough to prevent continued decline. Small sharks and threatened species are most likely to die after being caught, highlighting the need for complementary strategies like area-based fishing restrictions and catch quotas.
Citizen science data from scuba divers reveals distinct seasonal patterns among shark species, including hammerhead sharks and tiger sharks. The study also identified changes in shark populations over time, with some species increasing in abundance while others decrease.
Researchers at Ateneo de Manila University discover evidence of advanced seafaring and boatbuilding in the Philippines and Island Southeast Asia dating back to around 40,000 years ago. Microscopic analysis of stone tools reveals clear traces of plant processing, indicating a high level of technological sophistication.
A new study suggests that up to 70% of suitable habitats for the critically endangered whitefin swellshark will be lost over the next 75 years due to predicted ocean changes. The researchers believe that Australia's proactive conservation measures, such as marine protected areas, offer hope for the species' survival.
A citizen science study led by researchers from Florida Atlantic University has identified the most common shark species responsible for depredation in Florida's recreational fisheries. The study found that snapper-grouper species were the most frequently depredated target species group, while bull sharks and sandbar sharks were the mo...
A new study reveals that marine reserves on the Great Barrier Reef supply nearly half of the region's coral trout catch, contributing significantly to sustainable fishery yields. The protected areas also ensure a higher reproductive output and more resilient coral reef ecosystems.
Baleen whales face increased risk of boat injuries in densely inhabited regions due to vessel activity. The study analyzed changing whale distributions and reported incidents relative to vessel presence in the Northwest Atlantic.
A recent study by UMass Amherst and international partners found that giant trevally sport fishing in Seychelles is sensitive to catch-and-release pressure. The research used acoustic telemetry and mark-and-recapture programs to track fish behavior, revealing potential unintended consequences of the practice.
A Washington State University-led study found that individuals with more long-distance friends are significantly more likely to participate in sustainable fisheries management activities, such as beach cleanups and reporting illegal fishing practices. The research highlights the potential benefits of building cross-community relationsh...
The National TRAP Program has awarded $1.4 million to fund 11 projects in nine US states and Palau to remove derelict fishing gear from coastal waters. This initiative aims to standardize data collection practices and establish a national database to evaluate the environmental and economic impacts of these efforts.
A new study reveals significant declines in West African coastal fish stocks, with key local species experiencing reduced catches and smaller fish sizes. Local knowledge from fishermen and fishmongers highlights the impact of semi-industrial fishing practices on marine ecosystems.
The collaboration aims to detect red tide occurrences early and provide information to fisheries stakeholders to prevent damage to marine environments. The system will also be used for broader environmental monitoring of forests and oceans, improving accuracy through repeated validation.
Researchers discovered ancient plaquettes depicting net-based fishing methods in the Magdalenian site of Gönnersdorf, Germany. The findings provide insights into Upper Paleolithic fishing practices not previously known.
A new study by Duke University finds that deep-diving whales confuse plastic debris with prey items, as its acoustic signature mimics squid. Researchers tested various types of plastic trash and found strong similarities in their acoustic signals compared to whale prey, highlighting the need for more sustainable materials.
A new study identifies 324 owners of globally used reefers, 10 of whom account for nearly a quarter of all transshipment events. The research provides unprecedented transparency into the seafood value chain, allowing for improved governance and oversight of transshipment practices.
Industrial fishing practices in tropical and subtropical waters release high levels of methylmercury into the ocean. The majority of this mercury is found in large pelagic fish like tuna, which are then consumed by humans. This can lead to developmental delays in children and impaired cardiovascular health in adults.
A new set of 11 golden rules aims to minimize ocean destruction and preserve fish populations. The rules prioritize minimizing impacts on marine species, habitats, and human communities, while supporting sustainable fishing practices.
A new study of 21,000 marine animals reveals that even pristine habitats are at risk due to human activities and climate change. The research highlights the impact of cumulative human stressors on global marine fauna, emphasizing the need for targeted conservation efforts.
A UK-based study reveals that an offshore mussel farm is reviving shellfish reefs off the English south coast, a process previously unseen in 150 years. The research found mussels deposited on the seabed create habitats for commercially important species like European lobsters and brown crabs.
Researchers found that fishing impacts not only caught fish but also those left behind, causing widespread behavioral change. Single males at fished sites were twice as likely to flee and took two and a half times longer to return to their territories than fish at unfished sites.
A new study reveals that large apex species like tiger sharks and great whites are critical to healthy oceans, but their populations have plummeted by 71% in the past 50 years. Conservation efforts must prioritize protecting these ecological roles to maintain ocean balance.
A new study has determined the vertical limits of the marine environment in the Southwest Atlantic, revealing that the mesophotic zone extends to a depth of between 15m and 18m. The research found distinct differences in fish diversity and species composition between the shallow and mesophotic zones.
New research reveals that artificial light at night (ALAN) attracts larval fish to artificially lit environments, reducing their chances of survival. ALAN has been shown to lower fish growth rates, metabolic rates, and overall survival, with serious consequences for fish conservation.
New research reveals that global recreational inland fishing contributes 11.3% to freshwater fish catch worldwide and has an estimated $9.95 billion value. The study challenges the notion of 'recreational' fishing as a food resource, highlighting its complex roles in nutrition, economics, and human science.
A genetic study found that early summer fishing in the Baltic Sea targets larger salmon, leading to smaller fish and reduced population diversity. The study suggests that intensive fishing in the early season can cause evolutionary changes, affecting the age and size of Atlantic salmon before maturity.
The study identified two main reasons for the amplification of tsunamis: a lens effect due to shallow waters and wave refraction, as well as diffraction at capes and multiple reflections. These local conditions contributed to the high tsunamis in Iida Bay.
Researchers evaluated the health of accidentally caught sea turtles using ultrasound imaging to monitor gas levels in their organs. Veterinarians found that ultrasound brightness could be used to differentiate gas levels over time, helping them predict treatment outcomes for bycaught sea turtles.
Research suggests mainstreaming biodiversity targets into policies and plans across sectors has been ineffective due to non-binding commitments and insufficient resources. The study highlights the need for top-down regulation and incentives to encourage greater commitment to nature recovery.
A team of Australian scientists has developed a step-by-step guide to ageing octopus, using growth rings on beaks and stylets to validate age. This tool helps estimate growth rates, reproduction, and maturity, ensuring sustainable fisheries and conservation.
Despite being in place to rebuild fish populations, marine protected areas have flatlined or declined adult fish populations. Strong enforcement and climate-friendly design are crucial for their success.
A recent study found humpback whale entanglements in BC fish farms are extremely rare, with only eight instances over 13 years. Young whales' curiosity may be a contributing factor, according to researchers.
A new study published in Proceedings B of the Royal Society found that every injury from rope entanglements impacts North Atlantic right whale population recovery. Modelling data shows female whales who get tangled in fishing gear are less likely to calve, potentially leading to extinction.