Performance of industry-developed escape gaps in Australian Portunus pelagicus traps

Authors
Broadhurst, M.K., Millar, R.B., Hughes, B.
Year
Journal/Publisher Name
Fisheries Research
Volume (Issue #)
187
Page #s
120-126
Contact information
M. Broadhurst, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Fisheries Conservation Technology Unit, P.O. Box 4321, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450, Australia.
Summary

 Data was collected on the relative performance of single and multiple round, rectangular, and square escape gaps across three fishing operations. Compared to control traps, those with escape gaps maintained catches of legal-sized P. pelagicus, but caught 51–100% fewer undersized individuals. Generally, rectangular escape gaps and especially multiple configurations were the most effective. Escape gaps represent a low-cost option for minimizing interactions with unwanted catches throughout the fishery.