Bycatch of cetaceans in Korea fisheries in the East Sea

Abstract

Abstract Bycatch of marine mammals in fishing gear is a global problem, and considered a significant threat to cetaceans in the East Sea. The characteristics of cetacean bycatches in this area between 2013 and 2014 were investigated. The Korea Coast Guard reported a total of 717 cetacean bycatches involving 10 species. Four species, spinner dolphins ( Stenella longirostris ), long-beaked common dolphins ( Delphinus capensis ), minke whales ( Balaenoptera acutorostrata ), and finless porpoises ( Neophocaena asiaeorientalis ) accounted for 95.6% of the bycaught cetaceans. More bycatches occurred in the spring (49.8%) than in other seasons, with a peak in April (22.0%). Most bycatches involved three types of fishing gear: set nets, pots and gill nets (n = 706; 98.5%). The remaining bycatches were associated with trawl nets (n = 4; 0.6%). Most bycatches took place within 5 M of land (n = 504; 79.5%).