Management of the exploitation of the lugworm Arenicola marina and the ragworm Nereis virens (Polychaeta) in conservation areas

Abstract

Abstract In Europe, bait supply to anglers from the natural environment involves: (i) bait collection by anglers for own use, (ii) local semi‐professional bait digging and (iii) professional bait digging contracted to distributors. The management of bait digging activity is particularly acute where there is a conflict with conservation interests. Two case studies are presented describing the population dynamics of: I Arenicola marina in the Lindisfarne nature reserve, and II Nereis virens in the Menai Strait; both in conservation areas. Case I. Populations of A marina are subject to marked annual cycles in number and fresh weight. This case illustrates the response of the population to substantial overexploitation leading to a population crash. With the introduction of restrictive legislation the population was re‐established by recruitment of adults from neighbouring unexploited populations. Case II illustrates the dynamics of a N. virens population dominated by large old individuals; it does not represent a sustainable resource in contrast with populations of the same species in other locations. The management of the exploitation of bait populations in conservation areas is discussed in relation to world patterns of utilization and supply.