Incidental Catch of Marine Mammals and Turtles in Gillnets: Indian Scenario

Abstract

Gillnets contribute significantly to the livelihood of a major category of fishers, particularly in the artisanal sector. While gillnet is considered as a selective and responsible gear, there is serious concern worldwide due to incidental catch of marine mammals, marine turtles and other large marine organisms in the gear. Such incidental catch is identified as the main reason for the injury, mortality and even decline of certain populations. Very little research has been done on the issue of incidental catch of mammal and turtle in gillnets from Indian waters. The present communication gives an introduction to gillnets in India, the environmental impacts of gillnetting and reviews the incidental catch of marine mammals and turtles in gillnets and also identifies mitigation measures and knowledge gaps in addressing these issues. Gillnets affect mammals and turtles through entanglement and ingestion of gear or gear parts. The increasing number of gillnet fishing units and the upward trend in length and vertical height of the nets deployed are likely to increase marine mammal and turtle interactions with gear in future. We suggest regular monitoring of this fishery, with special reference to incidental catch of marine mammals and turtles. Regulation of gillnet fishing effort in terms of size and number of gears along with continued research to develop mitigation strategies and policy guidelines at the national level would ensure responsible gillnet fishing.