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A new analysis of bycatch data collected over the last two decades estimates that millions of marine turtles were killed as a result of fishing gear. Of the seven sea turtle species, six are currently considered threatened.
Three types of fishing gear (long-lines, gillnets, and trawls) were documented in the survey. Researchers recommend available modifications to this fishing gear, and wider usage of these modifications, to help lessen inadvertent turtle deaths. On long-line boats, which may involve trailing lines up to 40 km (about 25 miles), circular hooks, rather than the traditional J-hooks, seem to entangle less turtles. In shrimp trawls, a TED, or “Turtle Excluder Device” has proved successful in helping turtles escape capture.
A number of countries now require these modifications, but some fleets have resisted the gear updates, and others, especially in less developed areas, do not have access to the selective gear. The Mediterranean and Eastern Pacific regions, as well as the trawling operations off the west coast of Africa, appeared to have the highest rates of turtle bycatch.
In addition to fishing gear, sea turtles face other major threats. Coastal development can affect their beach nesting areas, and ocean litter has been known to drown the reptiles. In addition, turtles are still hunted in some areas for meat and for their decorative shells.
View Other Greenleap Stories on Turtles
Sources: BBC
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