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Assessing the effectiveness of cuttlefish traps based on lure prevalence, survival and maturity status

Ganias, Kostas1

Published Nov 15, 2020 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.ghx3ffbmk

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Nov 15, 2020 version files 241.86 KB

Abstract

Trap fishing is viewed as a low impact and fuel-efficient capture technique that is drawing increasing attention. However, due to their low capture efficiency fisheries sustainability may only be attained through improving profitability of these gears. The present study attempted to provide the necessary background for the establishment of a cuttlefish trap fishery in Thermaikos gulf (E. Mediterranean), a heavily fished area by gears of questionable sustainability such as the trammel nets. This task required the implementation of gear types and fishing operation techniques from other fishing areas. However, the use of empty traps or traps equipped with an artificial spawning substrate like branches of shrubs proved ineffective. Cuttlefish catches were only successful by baiting the cuttlefish trap with a female lure which entices males to enter the trap. We hereby propose that the method of choice is determined by the physical characteristics of the fishing-ground area. Other important factors including the shape and size of trap entrances and soak time are also investigated in an attempt to address crucial knowledge gaps and identify what the optimum fishing protocol and trap technical characteristics are for this potentially new métier for the Greek small-scale fisheries.