From the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Research conducted by the University of the West Indies, Guyana's Fisheries Department, and local fishers has led to a proposal to modify the Chinese-type seines used to catch seabob shrimp (Xiphopenaeus kroyeri) in order to reduce the capture of juvenile fish and shrimp.
Researchers compared several codend designs with the standard 25 mm diamond-mesh net currently used by fishers. The trials tested square-mesh codends in a range of mesh sizes. None of the individual modifications were able to simultaneously reduce juvenile and unwanted bycatch, maintain seabob shrimp catches, and preserve overall commercial efficiency.
As a result, the researchers proposed a hybrid design, which would retain a codend configuration broadly similar to the conventional 25 mm diamond mesh while incorporating a localized escape panel made from slightly larger square mesh. The panel could potentially be stitched into existing Chinese seines, making it a more cost-effective option than replacing the entire seine codend. However, further trials are needed to determine whether the hybrid design can successfully balance conservation objectives with the economic needs of fishers.
Read more here: Small gear change could bring sustainable benefits for fishers in Guyana