A Meta-Analysis of Bycatch Mitigation Methods for Sea Turtles Vulnerable to Swordfish and Tuna Longline Fisheries

Authors
Yan, H., Zhou, C., Gilman, E., Cao, J., Wan, R., Zhang, F., Zhu, J., Xu, L., Song, L., Dai, X. and Tian, S.
Year
Journal/Publisher Name
Fish and Fisheries
Volume (Issue #)
26(1)
Page #s
45-64
Contact information
Cheng Zhou, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China- c-zhou@shou.edu.cn
Rong Wan, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China- rwan@shou.edu.cn
Summary

This summary study is a meta-analysis of experimental results from 41 stidues that investigated bycatch mitigation methods for sea turtles in tuna and swordfish longline fisheries. Circle hooks demonstrated effectiveness in reducing sea turtle bycatch; however, these hooks also usually use fish bait instead of hook bait, which may also be leading to the reduction in bycatch. Additionally, outcomes varied between the Atlantic, Pacific and Mediterannean which highlights the importance of regional data collection. Further studies of circle hooks with a wire appendage and blue light are encouraged.