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Influence of 70 Watt Electric Lights on the Capture of Fish By Otter Trawl Off Plymouth

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 May 2009

M. R. Clarke
Affiliation:
The Laboratory, Marine Biological Association, Citadel Hill, Plymouth PL1 2PB
P. L. Pascoe
Affiliation:
The Laboratory, Marine Biological Association, Citadel Hill, Plymouth PL1 2PB
L. Maddock
Affiliation:
The Laboratory, Marine Biological Association, Citadel Hill, Plymouth PL1 2PB

Extract

The effect of two 70 W underwater electric lamps on the catch rate of a commercial bottom otter trawl was determined by comparative trials both at night and in daylight. It was found that, although the overall numbers and weights of fish caught did not differ, most of the species which were caught in large enough numbers for a judgement to be made showed a reaction to light. Three species, Trachurus trachurus, Merlangius merlangus and Trisopterus minutus were attracted and four species, Eutriglagurnardus, Micromesistius poutassou, Merluccius merluccius and Limanda limanda were scared off by light.

The possible use of lights to further the development of selective commercial bottom trawling by attracting or scaring particular species is discussed.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom 1986

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References

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