Reducing Bycatch of At-Risk Species in West Pacific Tuna Fisheries

By Safina Center Fellow alum Eric Gilman

Safina Center affiliate and former Fellow Eric Gilman and team from the Papua New Guinea Fishing Industry Association, Papua New Guinea National Fisheries Authority and University of Queensland recently completed research in a large tuna fishery of the western Pacific Ocean. The study identified options for spatial and temporal management to minimize the bycatch of at-risk species. A key finding was that fishing could be focused in two areas of existing core fishing grounds to reduce overlap with hotspots of silky sharks, Mobulid rays and whale sharks without affecting catch rates of target tunas. The fishing association is now applying the findings in a pilot area-based management framework. The study methods and main findings are summarized in the graphical abstract, below, which was prepared by the project team with the assistance of Laura Carbilla of the Marine Stewardship Council. The study was made possible through a grant from the Marine Stewardship Council Science and Research Fund.

Click the infographic below to download the dull resolution PDF.