Survival probabilities of thornback and spotted skates discarded by different fishing methods
Author Information
Author(s): Edward Schram, Lennert van de Pol, Katinka Bleeker, Pieke Molenaar, Allard van Mens, Jan Jaap Poos, Karolina Molla Gazi, Suzanne Cornelisse, Pim van Dalen, Wouter Suykerbuyk, Jurgen Batsleer
Primary Institution: Wageningen Marine Research, Wageningen University & Research, IJmuiden, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
What are the survival probabilities of thornback and spotted skates discarded by tickler chain beam trawl, pulse trawl, and flyshoot fisheries?
Conclusion
The study found that survival probabilities of thornback and spotted skates vary significantly depending on the fishing gear used and environmental conditions.
Supporting Evidence
- Survival probabilities were significantly affected by gear type, catch processing time, water temperature, and wave height.
- Flyshoot fisheries had the highest survival rates for both thornback and spotted skates.
- Beam trawl and pulse trawl fisheries showed no significant difference in survival rates for thornback skates.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many thornback and spotted skates survive after being caught and thrown back into the sea by different fishing methods.
Methodology
The study involved measuring survival probabilities through captive observation of skates for 15 to 25 days post-catch across various fishing trips.
Potential Biases
Potential observer bias in assessing the condition of skates could influence survival predictions.
Limitations
The study's estimates may not account for predation after release, and the conditions of captivity may affect survival rates.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on thornback and spotted skates caught in the North Sea and Eastern English Channel.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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