Mallorca fishers seek to cut shark catches in trawl nets

Mallorca’s fishers are discussing a way to prevent sharks being caught accidentally in trawl nets on Thursday at Can Tàpera in Palma, Mallorca. Scientists and marine conservation groups are joining them. The meeting also covers sustainable fishing for rays and dolphinfish, known locally as llampuga.

Domingo Bonnín, president of the Balearic Federation of Fishermen’s Guilds, is due to present the proposed method for avoiding shark catches. The Marilles Foundation will also introduce a guide to handling and releasing sharks and rays caught by accident, intended to improve their chances of survival.

Earlier in the day, researcher Xisco Ordines presented work on the fishing and conservation of rays in the Balearics. Marine ecologist Maria de Mar Gil outlined ways to reduce the impact of fishing with trammel nets.

Gori Mayol, from the fishermen’s guild at the Port of Sóller, Mallorca, pointed to dolphinfish fishing as an example of good management. He said it could increase profits while cutting working hours. Researchers also discussed work to restore algae beds in the Menorca channel and monitor fishing activity.

The Marilles Foundation and Fundació Sa Nostra organise the meeting. It will end with a discussion, and a document setting out conclusions and proposals is due to reach the relevant authorities in the coming months.

Topics: Nature & wildlife · Environment · Sóller

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com