Responsible fishing technology practices for fisheries development in Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Dynamic developments in harvest technologies and fish detection methods along with an uncontrolled expansion in fleet size fuelled by ever increasing market demand for fish have resulted in overfishing and negative impacts on the ecosystem. This highlighted the need for scientific management of the fishery resources in order to ensure their long term sustainability and availability for future generation. Respon­ sible fishing would ensure the long term sustainability of the resources, minimize negative environmental impacts and protect biodiversity. The code of conduct for responsible fisheries sets out the principles and international standards of behaviour for responsible practices to ensure long term sustainability of resources with due respect for eco-system, biodiversity and environment. The paper discusses the selective fishing gear practices, environmentally friendly fishing gears and enhancement of resources. The paper also discusses the need for developing selective fishing gears in order to protect non-targeted resources and endangered species like sea turtles. Bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) used to protect endangered species and reduce the bycatch of non-targeted species in shrimp trawling are a/so discussed.