Scientists from organizations such as the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies at James Cook University and the Wildlife Conservation Society have joined together to propose bans, or at least restrictions, on certain types of fishing gear as a means of aiding the recovery of coral reefs and fish populations.
According to studies undertaken in Kenya and Papua New Guinea, certain types of fishing gear – like spear guns, fish traps, and beach seine nets – have been found to be damaging to coral reefs and coral-dependent fish who have already been damaged by coral bleaching and storm activity.
Ideally, the scientists would like some extremely-damaged areas to be closed to fishing altogether. But given that this would mostly jeopardise the livelihood of impoverished fishers in developing countries it’s not feasible. The next best thing is to restrict or ban fishing gear that does the most damage.
This would need to be implemented alongside educational programs to help fishers adjust, understand and help monitor areas with several or at risk of severe coral damage.
Image: gshowman