Ecological Impacts of Fishing Gears in Thailand: Knowledge and Gaps
Authors: Wichin Suabpala, Ratana Chuenpagdee, Charoen Nitithamyong, and Thomasak Yeemin
The analysis shows that impacts from trawling are mostly reported in terms of amount of trash fish andundersized/juvenile economic fish. Impacts of fishing gears on marine mammals (such as dolphins and dugongs) and sea turtles are reported, but only qualitatively. Very little is known about discards and information about habitat damage is generally limited although a few studies qualitatively describe impacts of seine nets, trawls, dredges, and push nets on seagrass beds, coral reefs and benthic community. The study study reveals a major gap in understanding the ecological impacts of fishing gears in Thailand, particularly in relation to discards and habitat damage, which needs to be addressed in order to implement ecosystem approach to fisheries.