Fisheries bycatch

Fisheries bycatch refers to the unintended capture of non-target species—such as dolphins, sea turtles, seabirds, and other marine life—during commercial fishing activities. When fishing vessels use nets, hooks, or traps aimed at specific species like fish or shrimp, they can inadvertently catch these other animals. This bycatch can harm or kill non-target species, affecting their populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Efforts to reduce bycatch include developing selective gears, altering fishing practices, and implementing conservation measures to protect vulnerable species while maintaining sustainable fishing.