Assessing Codend Mesh Selectivity: Comparing Diamond and Square Mesh Codend in the Red Sea Shrimp Trawl Fishery of Saudi Arabia

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Santucci R. G., Tosunoğlu Z., Cilbiz M., Charles S. K., Gireesh S., Kadengal S. T., ...Daha Fazla

Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, cilt.12, sa.10, 2024 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
  • Cilt numarası: 12 Sayı: 10
  • Basım Tarihi: 2024
  • Doi Numarası: 10.3390/jmse12101848
  • Dergi Adı: Journal of Marine Science and Engineering
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Aerospace Database, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, Aquatic Science & Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA), CAB Abstracts, Communication Abstracts, INSPEC, Metadex, Veterinary Science Database, Directory of Open Access Journals, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: size selectivity, sustainability, trawl fisheries, bycatch, Red Sea
  • Açık Arşiv Koleksiyonu: AVESİS Açık Erişim Koleksiyonu
  • Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

This study assessed catch composition, size selectivity, and fishing efficiency of demersal trawls targeting penaeid shrimp species in the Red Sea. It first compared the currently used diamond mesh codends in two fishing areas, Al Qunfudhah and Jazan, and then compared alternative square mesh codends to diamond mesh codends in Jazan. A total of 33 valid hauls were conducted in 2023, yielding 10,869 kg of total catch. The results showed that the square mesh codend significantly improved size selectivity, particularly for Penaeus semisulcatus and Metapenaeus monoceros, with L50 (50% retention length) values closer to their size at first maturity. The fishing efficiency indicators revealed a reduced retention probability for undersized individuals with square mesh codends. Additionally, bycatch discard rates decreased, indicating potential benefits for ecosystem conservation. This study suggests incorporating square mesh codends into fishery management regulations to enhance size selectivity and reduce bycatch during Red Sea shrimp trawling. Establishing a legal minimum landing size requirement is recommended to complement these efforts and promote sustainable fishing practices.