fishery bycatch

Fishery bycatch refers to the unintended capture of non-target species during commercial fishing operations. When boats use nets or hooks to catch specific fish, other marine creatures—such as dolphins, sea turtles, seabirds, and different fish species—may also get caught unintentionally. This can impact these populations, disrupt ecosystems, and sometimes lead to injury or death for the unintended animals. Managing bycatch involves adopting safer fishing practices and gear modifications to reduce harm, ensuring that fishing remains sustainable and minimizes negative effects on marine biodiversity.