Summary
Pelagic stingrays (Pteroplatytrygon violacea) are a common bycatch species in the Mediterranean pelagic longline swordfish (Xiphias gladius) fishery. Experimental trials took place in the central Mediterranean Sea from 2005 to 2007 to investigate the importance of bait size, presence and type of light attractors, and hook size and shape on pelagic stingrays. Bait size and light attractants did not have a significant effect on stingray catch rate. Larger J-hooks reduced the stingray capture rate. 16/0 circle hooks had a significantly lower number of stingrays captured than J-hooks, up to 80%