TED (Turtle Excluder Device)

A Turtle Excluder Device (TED) is a specialized technology used in fishing nets to prevent accidental capture of sea turtles. It is usually a grid or narrow escape hatch installed in trawl nets that directs large, non-target animals like turtles away from the fish catch and safely out of the net before the net is hauled onboard. TEDs help protect endangered turtle populations without significantly impacting fishing efficiency. They are important tools in sustainable fishing practices, ensuring marine life conservation while allowing fishermen to continue their work responsibly.