IWC
Report of the IWC Workshop on Bycatch Mitigation Opportunities in the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea Technical Report
International Whaling Commission no. 124, 2019, ISSN: BMI workshop report 05-19.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Bycatch, Entanglement, Indian Ocean, International Whaling Commission, IOTC, mitigation, Pinger
@techreport{,
title = {Report of the IWC Workshop on Bycatch Mitigation Opportunities in the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea},
author = {IWC},
url = {https://archive.iwc.int/pages/view.php?ref=9612&k=},
issn = {BMI workshop report 05-19},
year = {2019},
date = {2019-01-01},
number = {124},
pages = {56},
publisher = {International Whaling Commission},
institution = {International Whaling Commission},
abstract = {The International Whaling Commission (IWC) held a technical workshop on Bycatch Mitigation
Opportunities in the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea from 8-9 May 2019 in Nairobi, Kenya. The
workshop was attended by 50 participants working in 17 different countries, with half of the
participants coming from within the Indian Ocean region. Workshop participants included national
government officials working in marine conservation and fisheries management, cetacean and
fisheries researchers, fisheries technologists, socio-economists and representatives from Regional
Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs), inter- and non-governmental organisations. The focal
region of the workshop extended from South Africa, north to the Arabian Sea and east to Sri Lanka,
including coastal areas, national waters and high seas. The primary objectives of the workshop were
to (i) develop a broad-scale picture of cetacean bycatch across the North and Western Indian Ocean
region in both artisanal and commercial fisheries; (ii) explore the challenges and opportunities related
to the monitoring and mitigation of cetacean bycatch in the western and northern Indian Ocean
(Arabian Sea); (iii) identify key gaps in knowledge and capacity within the region and tools needed
address these gaps; (iv) introduce the Bycatch Mitigation Initiative (BMI) to Indian Ocean stakeholders
and assess how the initiative can be of use; (v) identify potential locations which could serve as BMI
pilot projects; (vi) start building collaborations to tackle bycatch at national, regional and international
level.
Presentations included the status of bycatch knowledge at the Indian Ocean scale and current tools
available to assess, monitor and tackle cetacean bycatch. A panel discussion and breakout group
sessions allowed for more in-depth discussion of the knowledge, gaps and challenges to addressing
bycatch shared across the region. Priority areas where cetacean bycatch is known to be occurring –
or considered likely to be occurring - were identified across the region (see summary map below).
The workshop recognised that bycatch is one of the most significant threats to cetacean species and
populations in the Indian Ocean region and concluded that there was an urgent need to raise
awareness of cetacean bycatch at local, national, regional and international scales. The best available
information suggests that very high numbers of animals are caught in medium-scale tuna gillnet
fisheries in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea region. Furthermore, despite the general lack of data on
cetacean bycatch regionally, it is likely that high numbers of cetaceans, including vulnerable species
and populations, are caught in the extensive coastal artisanal and small-scale fisheries (net, trap and
line) across the region. The workshop concluded that within the Indian Ocean region there was a need
to focus on gillnets (set and drifting) as the fishing gear most likely to be causing the highest and most
significant bycatch of cetaceans, and for which few effective solutions currently exist.
It was recognised that cetacean bycatch is generally very poorly documented in the region and that
this presents a major barrier to understanding the scale of the issue and making progress towards
bycatch reduction. The workshop concluded that a more systematic assessment of bycatch
information is critical, particularly for small-scale and medium-scale fisheries.
A number of common barriers to tackling bycatch were identified, including: under-reporting of
bycatch by fishers; lack of standardised monitoring programmes which are suitable and financially
viable for small-medium-scale vessels; lack of capacity to carry out bycatch monitoring and reduction
programmes; lack of reporting through RFMOs; lack of sustainable funding to carry out bycatch
reduction programmes; lack of awareness and political will to tackle the issue; lack of capacity and
clarity at national level on the steps, tools and approaches to tackle bycatch; lack of baseline
information on cetacean distribution and abundance; and lack of technical solutions proven to work
on the fisheries in the region.
Given the prevalence of small to medium-scale fisheries using passive fishing gears (gillnets, traps, etc)
across the Indian Ocean region, and the lack of financially viable and effective mitigation solutions for
these gears, the workshop concluded that further work to develop and trial low-cost and low-tech
solutions was urgently needed. The utility of existing tools and approaches for assessing and
8
monitoring bycatch in the numerous small to medium-scale fleets was also recognised, including rapid
bycatch risk assessments, remote electronic monitoring and crew-based observer schemes. The
workshop concluded that bycatch reduction efforts should aim to apply multi-disciplinary and multitaxa approaches wherever possible.
The workshop recognised the need for strong collaboration with fishing communities and the
importance of integrating and collecting information on socio-economic aspects of bycatch into
bycatch reduction programmes. Direct engagement with the seafood supply chain, certification
schemes and the culinary community can be a part of rewarding fishers who are working to reduce
bycatch, thereby incentivising participation in bycatch mitigation programs. The workshop concluded
that bycatch reduction programmes should aim, as far as is possible, to support the livelihoods of
fishing communities, and that this should also be considered when exploring options for alternative
livelihoods. It was also recognised that within this region that cetaceans can be the target of directed
catch, or that incidentally caught cetaceans can be used as bait or food, meaning that the term
‘bycatch’ is less well defined.
The workshop participants acknowledged the vital role for Regional Fisheries Management
Organisations (RFMOs) in tackling bycatch and that raising the profile of cetacean bycatch, and the
need to address it, within the context of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), and the Southwest
Indian Ocean Fisheries Commission (SWIOFC) and their contracting parties should be prioritised. It
recognised that underreporting of bycatch at IOTC remains a challenge. The workshop concluded that
there was an opportunity for the BMI to act as a catalyst to ensure more engagement on cetacean
bycatch and to communicate the relevant research priorities at future meetings.
The workshop noted that the regional focus of the meeting had helped collate existing information on
bycatch and that such an approach was potentially useful for other regions. It agreed that until now
there had not been an international body to champion cetacean bycatch mitigation, and that the IWC’s
Bycatch Mitigation Initiative could collaborate with and where appropriate assist other organisations,
RFMOs and national governments interested in tackling bycatch in a number of ways. The suggested
role and activities for the BMI includes the collaborative development of a regional road map for
tackling cetacean bycatch and a framework for more sustainable funding of bycatch work,
strengthened engagement with RFMOs in the region (e.g. IOTC and SWIOFC) and the provision of
training and technical assistance and development of toolboxes. These activities are envisaged as part
of a collaboration between the IWC and other relevant bodies and organisations that are already
working to tackle bycatch (e.g. the FAO, RFMOs, other IGOs and NGOs) and relevant national
governments and experts.
In light of these conclusions the workshop made the following recommendations as the next steps
across the region in order to progress cetacean bycatch reduction efforts. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Bycatch, Entanglement, Indian Ocean, International Whaling Commission, IOTC, mitigation, Pinger},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
The International Whaling Commission (IWC) held a technical workshop on Bycatch Mitigation
Opportunities in the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea from 8-9 May 2019 in Nairobi, Kenya. The
workshop was attended by 50 participants working in 17 different countries, with half of the
participants coming from within the Indian Ocean region. Workshop participants included national
government officials working in marine conservation and fisheries management, cetacean and
fisheries researchers, fisheries technologists, socio-economists and representatives from Regional
Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs), inter- and non-governmental organisations. The focal
region of the workshop extended from South Africa, north to the Arabian Sea and east to Sri Lanka,
including coastal areas, national waters and high seas. The primary objectives of the workshop were
to (i) develop a broad-scale picture of cetacean bycatch across the North and Western Indian Ocean
region in both artisanal and commercial fisheries; (ii) explore the challenges and opportunities related
to the monitoring and mitigation of cetacean bycatch in the western and northern Indian Ocean
(Arabian Sea); (iii) identify key gaps in knowledge and capacity within the region and tools needed
address these gaps; (iv) introduce the Bycatch Mitigation Initiative (BMI) to Indian Ocean stakeholders
and assess how the initiative can be of use; (v) identify potential locations which could serve as BMI
pilot projects; (vi) start building collaborations to tackle bycatch at national, regional and international
level.
Presentations included the status of bycatch knowledge at the Indian Ocean scale and current tools
available to assess, monitor and tackle cetacean bycatch. A panel discussion and breakout group
sessions allowed for more in-depth discussion of the knowledge, gaps and challenges to addressing
bycatch shared across the region. Priority areas where cetacean bycatch is known to be occurring –
or considered likely to be occurring - were identified across the region (see summary map below).
The workshop recognised that bycatch is one of the most significant threats to cetacean species and
populations in the Indian Ocean region and concluded that there was an urgent need to raise
awareness of cetacean bycatch at local, national, regional and international scales. The best available
information suggests that very high numbers of animals are caught in medium-scale tuna gillnet
fisheries in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea region. Furthermore, despite the general lack of data on
cetacean bycatch regionally, it is likely that high numbers of cetaceans, including vulnerable species
and populations, are caught in the extensive coastal artisanal and small-scale fisheries (net, trap and
line) across the region. The workshop concluded that within the Indian Ocean region there was a need
to focus on gillnets (set and drifting) as the fishing gear most likely to be causing the highest and most
significant bycatch of cetaceans, and for which few effective solutions currently exist.
It was recognised that cetacean bycatch is generally very poorly documented in the region and that
this presents a major barrier to understanding the scale of the issue and making progress towards
bycatch reduction. The workshop concluded that a more systematic assessment of bycatch
information is critical, particularly for small-scale and medium-scale fisheries.
A number of common barriers to tackling bycatch were identified, including: under-reporting of
bycatch by fishers; lack of standardised monitoring programmes which are suitable and financially
viable for small-medium-scale vessels; lack of capacity to carry out bycatch monitoring and reduction
programmes; lack of reporting through RFMOs; lack of sustainable funding to carry out bycatch
reduction programmes; lack of awareness and political will to tackle the issue; lack of capacity and
clarity at national level on the steps, tools and approaches to tackle bycatch; lack of baseline
information on cetacean distribution and abundance; and lack of technical solutions proven to work
on the fisheries in the region.
Given the prevalence of small to medium-scale fisheries using passive fishing gears (gillnets, traps, etc)
across the Indian Ocean region, and the lack of financially viable and effective mitigation solutions for
these gears, the workshop concluded that further work to develop and trial low-cost and low-tech
solutions was urgently needed. The utility of existing tools and approaches for assessing and
8
monitoring bycatch in the numerous small to medium-scale fleets was also recognised, including rapid
bycatch risk assessments, remote electronic monitoring and crew-based observer schemes. The
workshop concluded that bycatch reduction efforts should aim to apply multi-disciplinary and multitaxa approaches wherever possible.
The workshop recognised the need for strong collaboration with fishing communities and the
importance of integrating and collecting information on socio-economic aspects of bycatch into
bycatch reduction programmes. Direct engagement with the seafood supply chain, certification
schemes and the culinary community can be a part of rewarding fishers who are working to reduce
bycatch, thereby incentivising participation in bycatch mitigation programs. The workshop concluded
that bycatch reduction programmes should aim, as far as is possible, to support the livelihoods of
fishing communities, and that this should also be considered when exploring options for alternative
livelihoods. It was also recognised that within this region that cetaceans can be the target of directed
catch, or that incidentally caught cetaceans can be used as bait or food, meaning that the term
‘bycatch’ is less well defined.
The workshop participants acknowledged the vital role for Regional Fisheries Management
Organisations (RFMOs) in tackling bycatch and that raising the profile of cetacean bycatch, and the
need to address it, within the context of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), and the Southwest
Indian Ocean Fisheries Commission (SWIOFC) and their contracting parties should be prioritised. It
recognised that underreporting of bycatch at IOTC remains a challenge. The workshop concluded that
there was an opportunity for the BMI to act as a catalyst to ensure more engagement on cetacean
bycatch and to communicate the relevant research priorities at future meetings.
The workshop noted that the regional focus of the meeting had helped collate existing information on
bycatch and that such an approach was potentially useful for other regions. It agreed that until now
there had not been an international body to champion cetacean bycatch mitigation, and that the IWC’s
Bycatch Mitigation Initiative could collaborate with and where appropriate assist other organisations,
RFMOs and national governments interested in tackling bycatch in a number of ways. The suggested
role and activities for the BMI includes the collaborative development of a regional road map for
tackling cetacean bycatch and a framework for more sustainable funding of bycatch work,
strengthened engagement with RFMOs in the region (e.g. IOTC and SWIOFC) and the provision of
training and technical assistance and development of toolboxes. These activities are envisaged as part
of a collaboration between the IWC and other relevant bodies and organisations that are already
working to tackle bycatch (e.g. the FAO, RFMOs, other IGOs and NGOs) and relevant national
governments and experts.
In light of these conclusions the workshop made the following recommendations as the next steps
across the region in order to progress cetacean bycatch reduction efforts.
Opportunities in the Western Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea from 8-9 May 2019 in Nairobi, Kenya. The
workshop was attended by 50 participants working in 17 different countries, with half of the
participants coming from within the Indian Ocean region. Workshop participants included national
government officials working in marine conservation and fisheries management, cetacean and
fisheries researchers, fisheries technologists, socio-economists and representatives from Regional
Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs), inter- and non-governmental organisations. The focal
region of the workshop extended from South Africa, north to the Arabian Sea and east to Sri Lanka,
including coastal areas, national waters and high seas. The primary objectives of the workshop were
to (i) develop a broad-scale picture of cetacean bycatch across the North and Western Indian Ocean
region in both artisanal and commercial fisheries; (ii) explore the challenges and opportunities related
to the monitoring and mitigation of cetacean bycatch in the western and northern Indian Ocean
(Arabian Sea); (iii) identify key gaps in knowledge and capacity within the region and tools needed
address these gaps; (iv) introduce the Bycatch Mitigation Initiative (BMI) to Indian Ocean stakeholders
and assess how the initiative can be of use; (v) identify potential locations which could serve as BMI
pilot projects; (vi) start building collaborations to tackle bycatch at national, regional and international
level.
Presentations included the status of bycatch knowledge at the Indian Ocean scale and current tools
available to assess, monitor and tackle cetacean bycatch. A panel discussion and breakout group
sessions allowed for more in-depth discussion of the knowledge, gaps and challenges to addressing
bycatch shared across the region. Priority areas where cetacean bycatch is known to be occurring –
or considered likely to be occurring - were identified across the region (see summary map below).
The workshop recognised that bycatch is one of the most significant threats to cetacean species and
populations in the Indian Ocean region and concluded that there was an urgent need to raise
awareness of cetacean bycatch at local, national, regional and international scales. The best available
information suggests that very high numbers of animals are caught in medium-scale tuna gillnet
fisheries in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea region. Furthermore, despite the general lack of data on
cetacean bycatch regionally, it is likely that high numbers of cetaceans, including vulnerable species
and populations, are caught in the extensive coastal artisanal and small-scale fisheries (net, trap and
line) across the region. The workshop concluded that within the Indian Ocean region there was a need
to focus on gillnets (set and drifting) as the fishing gear most likely to be causing the highest and most
significant bycatch of cetaceans, and for which few effective solutions currently exist.
It was recognised that cetacean bycatch is generally very poorly documented in the region and that
this presents a major barrier to understanding the scale of the issue and making progress towards
bycatch reduction. The workshop concluded that a more systematic assessment of bycatch
information is critical, particularly for small-scale and medium-scale fisheries.
A number of common barriers to tackling bycatch were identified, including: under-reporting of
bycatch by fishers; lack of standardised monitoring programmes which are suitable and financially
viable for small-medium-scale vessels; lack of capacity to carry out bycatch monitoring and reduction
programmes; lack of reporting through RFMOs; lack of sustainable funding to carry out bycatch
reduction programmes; lack of awareness and political will to tackle the issue; lack of capacity and
clarity at national level on the steps, tools and approaches to tackle bycatch; lack of baseline
information on cetacean distribution and abundance; and lack of technical solutions proven to work
on the fisheries in the region.
Given the prevalence of small to medium-scale fisheries using passive fishing gears (gillnets, traps, etc)
across the Indian Ocean region, and the lack of financially viable and effective mitigation solutions for
these gears, the workshop concluded that further work to develop and trial low-cost and low-tech
solutions was urgently needed. The utility of existing tools and approaches for assessing and
8
monitoring bycatch in the numerous small to medium-scale fleets was also recognised, including rapid
bycatch risk assessments, remote electronic monitoring and crew-based observer schemes. The
workshop concluded that bycatch reduction efforts should aim to apply multi-disciplinary and multitaxa approaches wherever possible.
The workshop recognised the need for strong collaboration with fishing communities and the
importance of integrating and collecting information on socio-economic aspects of bycatch into
bycatch reduction programmes. Direct engagement with the seafood supply chain, certification
schemes and the culinary community can be a part of rewarding fishers who are working to reduce
bycatch, thereby incentivising participation in bycatch mitigation programs. The workshop concluded
that bycatch reduction programmes should aim, as far as is possible, to support the livelihoods of
fishing communities, and that this should also be considered when exploring options for alternative
livelihoods. It was also recognised that within this region that cetaceans can be the target of directed
catch, or that incidentally caught cetaceans can be used as bait or food, meaning that the term
‘bycatch’ is less well defined.
The workshop participants acknowledged the vital role for Regional Fisheries Management
Organisations (RFMOs) in tackling bycatch and that raising the profile of cetacean bycatch, and the
need to address it, within the context of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), and the Southwest
Indian Ocean Fisheries Commission (SWIOFC) and their contracting parties should be prioritised. It
recognised that underreporting of bycatch at IOTC remains a challenge. The workshop concluded that
there was an opportunity for the BMI to act as a catalyst to ensure more engagement on cetacean
bycatch and to communicate the relevant research priorities at future meetings.
The workshop noted that the regional focus of the meeting had helped collate existing information on
bycatch and that such an approach was potentially useful for other regions. It agreed that until now
there had not been an international body to champion cetacean bycatch mitigation, and that the IWC’s
Bycatch Mitigation Initiative could collaborate with and where appropriate assist other organisations,
RFMOs and national governments interested in tackling bycatch in a number of ways. The suggested
role and activities for the BMI includes the collaborative development of a regional road map for
tackling cetacean bycatch and a framework for more sustainable funding of bycatch work,
strengthened engagement with RFMOs in the region (e.g. IOTC and SWIOFC) and the provision of
training and technical assistance and development of toolboxes. These activities are envisaged as part
of a collaboration between the IWC and other relevant bodies and organisations that are already
working to tackle bycatch (e.g. the FAO, RFMOs, other IGOs and NGOs) and relevant national
governments and experts.
In light of these conclusions the workshop made the following recommendations as the next steps
across the region in order to progress cetacean bycatch reduction efforts.
Cates, K.,DeMaster, D.P.,Brownell Jr, R.L.,Silber, G. K.,Gende, S.,Leaper, R.,Ritter, F.,Panigada, S.
Strategic Plan to Mitigate the Impacts of Ship Strikes on Cetacean Populations: 2017-2020 Technical Report
no. 64, 2017.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: IWC, mitigation, risk assessment, ship strike, Threats, vessel traffic
@techreport{,
title = {Strategic Plan to Mitigate the Impacts of Ship Strikes on Cetacean Populations: 2017-2020},
author = {Cates, K.,DeMaster, D.P.,Brownell Jr, R.L.,Silber, G. K.,Gende, S.,Leaper, R.,Ritter, F.,Panigada, S.},
url = {https://iwc.int/private/downloads/dr1UJzeCuNpAWs9Xf9caBw/IWC_Strategic_Plan_on_Ship_Strikes_Working_Group_FINAL.pdf},
year = {2017},
date = {2017-01-01},
journal = {Document presented and endorsed by the meeting of the Conservation Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
volume = {IWC/66/CC20 - updated },
number = {64},
pages = {17},
publisher = {International Whaling Commission},
abstract = {The International Whaling Commission (IWC) has identified the need to produce a Strategic Plan describing its activities intended to reduce the threat of ship strikes with cetaceans in the near and distant future. This document provides the necessary background, information and recommendations to help the IWC develop approaches and solutions by 2020 to achieve a permanent reduction in ship strikes of cetaceans.
A number of recommendations were accepted by the IWC at its October 2016 meeting (IWC-66), including: (1) Initiate efforts to get a more comprehensive and more accurate reporting of ship strike incidents into the Ship Strike Database, (2) Review records of ship strikes and add new records to the database in a reasonable time frame, (3) Improve on the reliability of species identification of ship struck whales, (4) Maintain an easily assessable compendium of relevant papers and reports of ship strike issues; produce an updated bibliography related to ship strike issues on a two year schedule, (5) Implement use of a standard protocol for reviewing and recording data into the Ship Strike database, and (6) Publish summary statistics from the Ship Strike database on a routine basis, and couple this effort with outreach efforts.
The IWC has recognized that reducing the spatial overlap of both high numbers of cetaceans and high numbers of vessels is likely to remain the best means of reducing ship strikes. Reducing vessel speeds in areas of high interactions is also a key element in mitigating adverse impacts on cetacean populations.
Finally, it was noted that human-induced mortality caused by ship strikes can be an impediment to cetacean population growth. Populations of whales in the low hundreds of individuals are at risk of continuing declines even if only a small number of ship strikes occur per year. Therefore, it is important to identify populations that are small, are in decline, or for which human activities result in whale deaths or injuries and to monitor these populations to evaluate the extent to which ship strikes are a threat:
a. Western North Atlantic right whale
b. Eastern North Pacific right whale
c. Chile-Peru right whale
d. Arabian Sea humpback whale
e. Western gray whale
f. Blue whale-Sri Lanka and Arabian Sea
g. Blue whale-Chile
h. Sperm whale-Mediterranean Sea
i. Fin whale-Mediterranean Sea
j. Bryde’s whale-Gulf of Mexico
k. Omura’s whale-Northwestern Madagascar
l. Sperm whale-Canary Islands region},
keywords = {IWC, mitigation, risk assessment, ship strike, Threats, vessel traffic},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
The International Whaling Commission (IWC) has identified the need to produce a Strategic Plan describing its activities intended to reduce the threat of ship strikes with cetaceans in the near and distant future. This document provides the necessary background, information and recommendations to help the IWC develop approaches and solutions by 2020 to achieve a permanent reduction in ship strikes of cetaceans.
A number of recommendations were accepted by the IWC at its October 2016 meeting (IWC-66), including: (1) Initiate efforts to get a more comprehensive and more accurate reporting of ship strike incidents into the Ship Strike Database, (2) Review records of ship strikes and add new records to the database in a reasonable time frame, (3) Improve on the reliability of species identification of ship struck whales, (4) Maintain an easily assessable compendium of relevant papers and reports of ship strike issues; produce an updated bibliography related to ship strike issues on a two year schedule, (5) Implement use of a standard protocol for reviewing and recording data into the Ship Strike database, and (6) Publish summary statistics from the Ship Strike database on a routine basis, and couple this effort with outreach efforts.
The IWC has recognized that reducing the spatial overlap of both high numbers of cetaceans and high numbers of vessels is likely to remain the best means of reducing ship strikes. Reducing vessel speeds in areas of high interactions is also a key element in mitigating adverse impacts on cetacean populations.
Finally, it was noted that human-induced mortality caused by ship strikes can be an impediment to cetacean population growth. Populations of whales in the low hundreds of individuals are at risk of continuing declines even if only a small number of ship strikes occur per year. Therefore, it is important to identify populations that are small, are in decline, or for which human activities result in whale deaths or injuries and to monitor these populations to evaluate the extent to which ship strikes are a threat:
a. Western North Atlantic right whale
b. Eastern North Pacific right whale
c. Chile-Peru right whale
d. Arabian Sea humpback whale
e. Western gray whale
f. Blue whale-Sri Lanka and Arabian Sea
g. Blue whale-Chile
h. Sperm whale-Mediterranean Sea
i. Fin whale-Mediterranean Sea
j. Bryde’s whale-Gulf of Mexico
k. Omura’s whale-Northwestern Madagascar
l. Sperm whale-Canary Islands region
A number of recommendations were accepted by the IWC at its October 2016 meeting (IWC-66), including: (1) Initiate efforts to get a more comprehensive and more accurate reporting of ship strike incidents into the Ship Strike Database, (2) Review records of ship strikes and add new records to the database in a reasonable time frame, (3) Improve on the reliability of species identification of ship struck whales, (4) Maintain an easily assessable compendium of relevant papers and reports of ship strike issues; produce an updated bibliography related to ship strike issues on a two year schedule, (5) Implement use of a standard protocol for reviewing and recording data into the Ship Strike database, and (6) Publish summary statistics from the Ship Strike database on a routine basis, and couple this effort with outreach efforts.
The IWC has recognized that reducing the spatial overlap of both high numbers of cetaceans and high numbers of vessels is likely to remain the best means of reducing ship strikes. Reducing vessel speeds in areas of high interactions is also a key element in mitigating adverse impacts on cetacean populations.
Finally, it was noted that human-induced mortality caused by ship strikes can be an impediment to cetacean population growth. Populations of whales in the low hundreds of individuals are at risk of continuing declines even if only a small number of ship strikes occur per year. Therefore, it is important to identify populations that are small, are in decline, or for which human activities result in whale deaths or injuries and to monitor these populations to evaluate the extent to which ship strikes are a threat:
a. Western North Atlantic right whale
b. Eastern North Pacific right whale
c. Chile-Peru right whale
d. Arabian Sea humpback whale
e. Western gray whale
f. Blue whale-Sri Lanka and Arabian Sea
g. Blue whale-Chile
h. Sperm whale-Mediterranean Sea
i. Fin whale-Mediterranean Sea
j. Bryde’s whale-Gulf of Mexico
k. Omura’s whale-Northwestern Madagascar
l. Sperm whale-Canary Islands region
Willson, A.,Kowalik, J.,Godley, B.J.,Baldwin, R.,Struck, A.,Struck, L.,Nawaz, Rab,Witt, M.J.
Priorities for addressing whale and ship co-occurrence off the coast of Oman and the wider North Indian Ocean. Technical Report
no. 503, 2016.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: AIS, Blue whale, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, ship strike, vessel traffic, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Priorities for addressing whale and ship co-occurrence off the coast of Oman and the wider North Indian Ocean.},
author = {Willson, A.,Kowalik, J.,Godley, B.J.,Baldwin, R.,Struck, A.,Struck, L.,Nawaz, Rab,Witt, M.J.},
year = {2016},
date = {2016-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {503},
pages = {13},
publisher = {IWC},
abstract = {Satellite telemetry studies and habitat density mapping of the endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale
(Megaptera novaeangliae) has revealed overlap with shipping off the coast of Oman. To date the only other
Northern Indian Ocean (NIO) study to determine the risk of mortality to whales (Baleanoptera musculus)
from shipping was completed in Sri Lanka. A demonstration exercise reviewing vessel traffic (from AIS
data) passing through coarsely defined habitat reveals that container vessels may provide the highest risk to
whales based on speed of vessels, and given a three fold increase in container traffic in the NIO region
between 2004 and 2014. Traffic density heat maps show shipping routes are predominantly distributed
around the periphery of the NIO area in close proximity to the continental shelf showing overlap with
historical records of takes of blue, humpback, sperm (Physester macrocephalus) and Bryde’s whales
(Baleanoptridae edeni) during Soviet whaling between 1964 and 1966. The review presents a case for
immediately commencing risk assessment work on humpback and ship co-occurrence in Oman whilst
undertaking a wider spatial assessment of the region to at least determine priority areas for study. Given
overlapping habitat use between species in certain areas, a multi-species approach to reviewing mitigation
options is recommended.},
keywords = {AIS, Blue whale, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, ship strike, vessel traffic, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Satellite telemetry studies and habitat density mapping of the endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale
(Megaptera novaeangliae) has revealed overlap with shipping off the coast of Oman. To date the only other
Northern Indian Ocean (NIO) study to determine the risk of mortality to whales (Baleanoptera musculus)
from shipping was completed in Sri Lanka. A demonstration exercise reviewing vessel traffic (from AIS
data) passing through coarsely defined habitat reveals that container vessels may provide the highest risk to
whales based on speed of vessels, and given a three fold increase in container traffic in the NIO region
between 2004 and 2014. Traffic density heat maps show shipping routes are predominantly distributed
around the periphery of the NIO area in close proximity to the continental shelf showing overlap with
historical records of takes of blue, humpback, sperm (Physester macrocephalus) and Bryde’s whales
(Baleanoptridae edeni) during Soviet whaling between 1964 and 1966. The review presents a case for
immediately commencing risk assessment work on humpback and ship co-occurrence in Oman whilst
undertaking a wider spatial assessment of the region to at least determine priority areas for study. Given
overlapping habitat use between species in certain areas, a multi-species approach to reviewing mitigation
options is recommended.
(Megaptera novaeangliae) has revealed overlap with shipping off the coast of Oman. To date the only other
Northern Indian Ocean (NIO) study to determine the risk of mortality to whales (Baleanoptera musculus)
from shipping was completed in Sri Lanka. A demonstration exercise reviewing vessel traffic (from AIS
data) passing through coarsely defined habitat reveals that container vessels may provide the highest risk to
whales based on speed of vessels, and given a three fold increase in container traffic in the NIO region
between 2004 and 2014. Traffic density heat maps show shipping routes are predominantly distributed
around the periphery of the NIO area in close proximity to the continental shelf showing overlap with
historical records of takes of blue, humpback, sperm (Physester macrocephalus) and Bryde’s whales
(Baleanoptridae edeni) during Soviet whaling between 1964 and 1966. The review presents a case for
immediately commencing risk assessment work on humpback and ship co-occurrence in Oman whilst
undertaking a wider spatial assessment of the region to at least determine priority areas for study. Given
overlapping habitat use between species in certain areas, a multi-species approach to reviewing mitigation
options is recommended.
Baldwin, R.,Willson, Andrew,Collins, T.J.Q.
Watching out for whales: industry responsibility to address threats to Arabian Sea humpback whales, Gulf of Masirah, Oman Technical Report
no. 312, 2015.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, seismic, ship strike, vessel traffic
@techreport{,
title = {Watching out for whales: industry responsibility to address threats to Arabian Sea humpback whales, Gulf of Masirah, Oman},
author = {Baldwin, R.,Willson, Andrew,Collins, T.J.Q.},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the 66th meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission},
number = {312},
pages = {10},
abstract = {Research on Arabian Sea humpback whales in Oman over the past 15 years has revealed that the Gulf of Masirah is a hot spot for this Endangered population and the only part of its known range where males and females are found at near parity. This information has been used by a partnership of industry, consultancy and NGO in Oman to develop mitigation related to port operations and hydrocarbon exploration in the area. This has included the development of a Whale Management and Mitigation Programme to be implemented by the Port of Duqm Company, as well as mitigation procedures that were used by a seismic survey contractor in late 2014. Impacts to whales nevertheless remain, including a collision between seismic equipment and a whale in December 2014, suggesting that further development of protection measures for the Arabian Sea humpback whale is still required. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, seismic, ship strike, vessel traffic},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Research on Arabian Sea humpback whales in Oman over the past 15 years has revealed that the Gulf of Masirah is a hot spot for this Endangered population and the only part of its known range where males and females are found at near parity. This information has been used by a partnership of industry, consultancy and NGO in Oman to develop mitigation related to port operations and hydrocarbon exploration in the area. This has included the development of a Whale Management and Mitigation Programme to be implemented by the Port of Duqm Company, as well as mitigation procedures that were used by a seismic survey contractor in late 2014. Impacts to whales nevertheless remain, including a collision between seismic equipment and a whale in December 2014, suggesting that further development of protection measures for the Arabian Sea humpback whale is still required.
Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins,T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Zerbini, A.N.,Witt, M.J.
Research update of satellite tracking studies of male Arabian Sea humpback whales; Oman Technical Report
no. 501, 2015, ISBN: SC/66a/SH/22 Rev 1.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, Threats
@techreport{,
title = {Research update of satellite tracking studies of male Arabian Sea humpback whales; Oman},
author = {Willson, A.,Baldwin, R.,Cerchio, S,Collins,T.,Findlay, K.,Gray, H.,Godley, B.J.,Al Harthi, S.,Kennedy, A.,Minton, G.,Zerbini, A.N.,Witt, M.J.},
issn = {SC/66a/SH/22 Rev 1},
year = {2015},
date = {2015-01-01},
number = {501},
pages = {12},
abstract = {Satellite tags were deployed on three adult male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) encountered off the southern coast of Oman during March 2015. This represents the second year of a telemetry study that began with the tagging of three whales in 2014 and forms part of a broader scientific research programme initiated in 2000 to understand the population biology and spatial ecology of Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales. Tags were deployed in an area commonly associated with the seasonal presence of singing whales. Resightings of whales tagged in 2014 (n=3), supported by photographic evidence of two animals, showed normal healing of epidermal tissue around the tag site over a period of 9 to 11 months. A repeat tagging of one known individual (tagged in 2014) as well as two other known individuals in the Oman photo-ID database provides further evidence for high site fidelity of males to the tagging site as well as the Gulf of Masirah. Habitat utilization inferred from telemetry and vessel survey data have confirmed the urgent need for mitigation measures in high-risk areas and have led to an improved understanding of humpback whale spatial ecology across the wider region.},
keywords = {Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, photo identification, Satellite telemetry, Threats},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Satellite tags were deployed on three adult male humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) encountered off the southern coast of Oman during March 2015. This represents the second year of a telemetry study that began with the tagging of three whales in 2014 and forms part of a broader scientific research programme initiated in 2000 to understand the population biology and spatial ecology of Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whales. Tags were deployed in an area commonly associated with the seasonal presence of singing whales. Resightings of whales tagged in 2014 (n=3), supported by photographic evidence of two animals, showed normal healing of epidermal tissue around the tag site over a period of 9 to 11 months. A repeat tagging of one known individual (tagged in 2014) as well as two other known individuals in the Oman photo-ID database provides further evidence for high site fidelity of males to the tagging site as well as the Gulf of Masirah. Habitat utilization inferred from telemetry and vessel survey data have confirmed the urgent need for mitigation measures in high-risk areas and have led to an improved understanding of humpback whale spatial ecology across the wider region.
Anderson, R Charles
Cetaceans and tuna fisheries in the Western and Central Indian Ocean Journal Article
In: International Pole and Line Federation Technical Report, vol. 2, no. 10, pp. 133, 2014.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, Gill net, mitigation, Northern Indian Ocean, Regional management units, Tuna
@article{,
title = {Cetaceans and tuna fisheries in the Western and Central Indian Ocean},
author = {Anderson, R Charles},
url = {http://www.fao.org/3/a-bg252e.pdf},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
journal = {International Pole and Line Federation Technical Report},
volume = {2},
number = {10},
pages = {133},
abstract = {This report reviews information on interactions between cetaceans (whales and
dolphins) and tuna fisheries in the western and central Indian Ocean. The average
annual catch of tuna and related species in the Indian Ocean was just over 1.5 million
tonnes during 2008-12. Of this, almost 1.1 million tonnes (71%) came from the
western and central Indian Ocean. The main fisheries for tuna and tuna-like species
in the region are gillnet (40% of reported catch during 2008-12), purse seine (26%),
longline (12%), handline and troll (11%) and pole-and-line (9%).
Major gillnet fishing nations include Iran, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Oman and Yemen.
Cetacean bycatch must be large, but is poorly documented. A rough estimation,
based on the limited published information available, suggests that something
in excess of 60,000 small cetaceans might be taken as bycatch each year. There is
an urgent need for monitoring and management of these fisheries including the
development of mitigation methods to reduce cetacean bycatch. Large-scale gillnetting
on the high seas (using nets in excess of 2.5km length) is banned by both
UN convention and IOTC resolution, but is being carried out by Iran, Pakistan and
possibly also other countries; compliance is required. More generally, the large and
still expanding gillnet capacity within the region needs to be assessed, and if appropriate
either capped or reduced.
Purse seining in the western and central Indian Ocean is dominated by French and
Spanish fleets. An increasing proportion of sets is made on drifting fish aggregating
devices (FADs) but there has been, and continues to be, a considerable number of
sets made on free schools (i.e. non-FAD-associated tuna schools). Most cetaceans do
not regularly associate with FADs and the major potential cetacean interactions are
with free school sets. During 1981-1999, 9.6% of all sets were reported to have been
made in association with baleen whales, probably Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera
brydei). When encircled, most whales are reported to escape by breaking through
the net. Mortality is unknown, but may have been of the order of 10s annually. The
association of free schools of large yellowfin tuna with dolphins (mostly spotted
dolphins Stenella attenuata and spinner dolphins Stenella longrostris) is more contentious.
This association (which is common in the Eastern Tropical Pacific and is
exploited by the purse seine fishery there) has always been reported to be rare in the
western Indian Ocean. However, the tuna-dolphin association is common in many
coastal areas of the region and widespread in the high seas of the western Indian
Ocean north of 10°S. Setting on dolphin schools has been also reported to be rare,
but its true scale is questioned. Setting on cetaceans has recently been banned by
EU regulation (2007) and IOTC resolution (2013), so cetacean bycatch and mortality
should be much reduced in the future. 100% coverage by international observers
would be ideal.
Longline fisheries were dominated for several decades by East Asian nations, but
now increasing catches are made by coastal countries, notably India, Sri Lanka and
Seychelles. A major issue for longliners is depredation – removal of bait and damage
of hooked fish by sharks and cetaceans. Several species of cetacean have been
implicated, but the main one appears to be the false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens).
There is also some entanglement of cetaceans in longlines (likely following
attempts at depredation). Development of mitigation measures is on-going and
needs to be continued. It is possible that some longline fishermen are deliberately
killing cetaceans.
Several coastal countries have handline fisheries for large yellowfin tuna, which fishermen
locate by their association with dolphins (mainly spotted and spinner dolphins).
There is anecdotal evidence that some dolphins are hooked. Although they
invariably break free or are released, the scale of any post-release mortality or of
sub-lethal impacts is unknown. From the Maldivian pole-and-line fishery, there are
reports of dolphins (probably Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops aduncus)
taking fish attracted by the lights used during night bait fishing. The scale and potential
impacts of these interactions require assessment.
There has been a widespread failure to monitor and manage cetacean bycatch in
Indian Ocean tuna fisheries, and to develop and implement mitigation measures.
The enormous, and still growing, gillnet capacity in the region should be of particular
concern. There is a need for increased observer coverage of all fisheries, supplemented
by electronic monitoring. Fishery-independent surveys of cetacean distribution
and abundance in the western Indian Ocean are also required to inform
management.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, Gill net, mitigation, Northern Indian Ocean, Regional management units, Tuna},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
This report reviews information on interactions between cetaceans (whales and
dolphins) and tuna fisheries in the western and central Indian Ocean. The average
annual catch of tuna and related species in the Indian Ocean was just over 1.5 million
tonnes during 2008-12. Of this, almost 1.1 million tonnes (71%) came from the
western and central Indian Ocean. The main fisheries for tuna and tuna-like species
in the region are gillnet (40% of reported catch during 2008-12), purse seine (26%),
longline (12%), handline and troll (11%) and pole-and-line (9%).
Major gillnet fishing nations include Iran, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Oman and Yemen.
Cetacean bycatch must be large, but is poorly documented. A rough estimation,
based on the limited published information available, suggests that something
in excess of 60,000 small cetaceans might be taken as bycatch each year. There is
an urgent need for monitoring and management of these fisheries including the
development of mitigation methods to reduce cetacean bycatch. Large-scale gillnetting
on the high seas (using nets in excess of 2.5km length) is banned by both
UN convention and IOTC resolution, but is being carried out by Iran, Pakistan and
possibly also other countries; compliance is required. More generally, the large and
still expanding gillnet capacity within the region needs to be assessed, and if appropriate
either capped or reduced.
Purse seining in the western and central Indian Ocean is dominated by French and
Spanish fleets. An increasing proportion of sets is made on drifting fish aggregating
devices (FADs) but there has been, and continues to be, a considerable number of
sets made on free schools (i.e. non-FAD-associated tuna schools). Most cetaceans do
not regularly associate with FADs and the major potential cetacean interactions are
with free school sets. During 1981-1999, 9.6% of all sets were reported to have been
made in association with baleen whales, probably Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera
brydei). When encircled, most whales are reported to escape by breaking through
the net. Mortality is unknown, but may have been of the order of 10s annually. The
association of free schools of large yellowfin tuna with dolphins (mostly spotted
dolphins Stenella attenuata and spinner dolphins Stenella longrostris) is more contentious.
This association (which is common in the Eastern Tropical Pacific and is
exploited by the purse seine fishery there) has always been reported to be rare in the
western Indian Ocean. However, the tuna-dolphin association is common in many
coastal areas of the region and widespread in the high seas of the western Indian
Ocean north of 10°S. Setting on dolphin schools has been also reported to be rare,
but its true scale is questioned. Setting on cetaceans has recently been banned by
EU regulation (2007) and IOTC resolution (2013), so cetacean bycatch and mortality
should be much reduced in the future. 100% coverage by international observers
would be ideal.
Longline fisheries were dominated for several decades by East Asian nations, but
now increasing catches are made by coastal countries, notably India, Sri Lanka and
Seychelles. A major issue for longliners is depredation – removal of bait and damage
of hooked fish by sharks and cetaceans. Several species of cetacean have been
implicated, but the main one appears to be the false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens).
There is also some entanglement of cetaceans in longlines (likely following
attempts at depredation). Development of mitigation measures is on-going and
needs to be continued. It is possible that some longline fishermen are deliberately
killing cetaceans.
Several coastal countries have handline fisheries for large yellowfin tuna, which fishermen
locate by their association with dolphins (mainly spotted and spinner dolphins).
There is anecdotal evidence that some dolphins are hooked. Although they
invariably break free or are released, the scale of any post-release mortality or of
sub-lethal impacts is unknown. From the Maldivian pole-and-line fishery, there are
reports of dolphins (probably Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops aduncus)
taking fish attracted by the lights used during night bait fishing. The scale and potential
impacts of these interactions require assessment.
There has been a widespread failure to monitor and manage cetacean bycatch in
Indian Ocean tuna fisheries, and to develop and implement mitigation measures.
The enormous, and still growing, gillnet capacity in the region should be of particular
concern. There is a need for increased observer coverage of all fisheries, supplemented
by electronic monitoring. Fishery-independent surveys of cetacean distribution
and abundance in the western Indian Ocean are also required to inform
management.
dolphins) and tuna fisheries in the western and central Indian Ocean. The average
annual catch of tuna and related species in the Indian Ocean was just over 1.5 million
tonnes during 2008-12. Of this, almost 1.1 million tonnes (71%) came from the
western and central Indian Ocean. The main fisheries for tuna and tuna-like species
in the region are gillnet (40% of reported catch during 2008-12), purse seine (26%),
longline (12%), handline and troll (11%) and pole-and-line (9%).
Major gillnet fishing nations include Iran, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Oman and Yemen.
Cetacean bycatch must be large, but is poorly documented. A rough estimation,
based on the limited published information available, suggests that something
in excess of 60,000 small cetaceans might be taken as bycatch each year. There is
an urgent need for monitoring and management of these fisheries including the
development of mitigation methods to reduce cetacean bycatch. Large-scale gillnetting
on the high seas (using nets in excess of 2.5km length) is banned by both
UN convention and IOTC resolution, but is being carried out by Iran, Pakistan and
possibly also other countries; compliance is required. More generally, the large and
still expanding gillnet capacity within the region needs to be assessed, and if appropriate
either capped or reduced.
Purse seining in the western and central Indian Ocean is dominated by French and
Spanish fleets. An increasing proportion of sets is made on drifting fish aggregating
devices (FADs) but there has been, and continues to be, a considerable number of
sets made on free schools (i.e. non-FAD-associated tuna schools). Most cetaceans do
not regularly associate with FADs and the major potential cetacean interactions are
with free school sets. During 1981-1999, 9.6% of all sets were reported to have been
made in association with baleen whales, probably Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera
brydei). When encircled, most whales are reported to escape by breaking through
the net. Mortality is unknown, but may have been of the order of 10s annually. The
association of free schools of large yellowfin tuna with dolphins (mostly spotted
dolphins Stenella attenuata and spinner dolphins Stenella longrostris) is more contentious.
This association (which is common in the Eastern Tropical Pacific and is
exploited by the purse seine fishery there) has always been reported to be rare in the
western Indian Ocean. However, the tuna-dolphin association is common in many
coastal areas of the region and widespread in the high seas of the western Indian
Ocean north of 10°S. Setting on dolphin schools has been also reported to be rare,
but its true scale is questioned. Setting on cetaceans has recently been banned by
EU regulation (2007) and IOTC resolution (2013), so cetacean bycatch and mortality
should be much reduced in the future. 100% coverage by international observers
would be ideal.
Longline fisheries were dominated for several decades by East Asian nations, but
now increasing catches are made by coastal countries, notably India, Sri Lanka and
Seychelles. A major issue for longliners is depredation – removal of bait and damage
of hooked fish by sharks and cetaceans. Several species of cetacean have been
implicated, but the main one appears to be the false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens).
There is also some entanglement of cetaceans in longlines (likely following
attempts at depredation). Development of mitigation measures is on-going and
needs to be continued. It is possible that some longline fishermen are deliberately
killing cetaceans.
Several coastal countries have handline fisheries for large yellowfin tuna, which fishermen
locate by their association with dolphins (mainly spotted and spinner dolphins).
There is anecdotal evidence that some dolphins are hooked. Although they
invariably break free or are released, the scale of any post-release mortality or of
sub-lethal impacts is unknown. From the Maldivian pole-and-line fishery, there are
reports of dolphins (probably Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops aduncus)
taking fish attracted by the lights used during night bait fishing. The scale and potential
impacts of these interactions require assessment.
There has been a widespread failure to monitor and manage cetacean bycatch in
Indian Ocean tuna fisheries, and to develop and implement mitigation measures.
The enormous, and still growing, gillnet capacity in the region should be of particular
concern. There is a need for increased observer coverage of all fisheries, supplemented
by electronic monitoring. Fishery-independent surveys of cetacean distribution
and abundance in the western Indian Ocean are also required to inform
management.
Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.
Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission Technical Report
no. 329, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation
@techreport{,
title = { Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission},
author = {Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
number = {329},
pages = {347},
abstract = {Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets. },
keywords = {black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.
Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission Technical Report
no. 329, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation
@techreport{,
title = { Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission},
author = {Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
number = {329},
pages = {347},
abstract = {Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets. },
keywords = {black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.
Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission Technical Report
no. 329, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation
@techreport{,
title = { Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission},
author = {Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
number = {329},
pages = {347},
abstract = {Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets. },
keywords = {black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.
Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission Technical Report
no. 329, 2014.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation
@techreport{,
title = { Studies for Carrying Out the Common Fisheries Policy: Adverse Fisheries Impacts on Cetacean Populations in the Black Sea. Final report to the European Commission},
author = {Birkun Jr, A,Northridge, S,Willsteed, E.A.,James, F.A.,Kilgour, C.,Lander, M.,Fitzgerald, G.D.},
year = {2014},
date = {2014-01-01},
number = {329},
pages = {347},
abstract = {Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets. },
keywords = {black sea, Bycatch, cetaceans, Fisheries, management, mitigation},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Four tasks were completed to achieve the objective of providing the European Commission with: an
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
analysis of historical and current status of cetacean populations in the western Black Sea; qualitative and
quantitative assessments of their by-catch in Black Sea fisheries by fishery and fishing gear; and the
provision of recommendations for measures to reduce by-catch in fisheries identified as having high rates
of by-catch. A summary of work achieved for each task follows.
A review and analysis of all national and international legislation aiming at the protection and
conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea was completed, including the identification of gaps in the
legislation. A rapid assessment of the capacity of existing national fisheries legislation in Bulgaria,
Romania, Turkey and Ukraine in context of cetacean conservation was also completed. Questionnaires
were distributed to national authorities and experts to develop a list of domestic legal tools. To determine
the awareness of fishermen regarding national legislation designed to protect cetaceans, a questionnaire
was distributed to leaders of fishing cooperatives in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine.
Recommendations regarding improvement of national legislation and its implementation in the Black Sea
were developed.
New data from Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine was collected and a review of existing information
from all coastal States on harbour porpoises, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins in the Black Sea
was completed. Information was reviewed to determine the existing state of knowledge of Black Sea
cetaceans and their interactions with fisheries historically and currently. This involved the consolidation
of existing datasets on cetacean abundance and distribution, and by-catch records from Black Sea coastal
states. To provide information on fishing capacity and effort, surveys were conducted at representative
fishing harbours in Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey and Ukraine. In conjunction with the surveys, interviews
were held with fishermen to provide information about perceptions of by-catch, by-catch rates in
different gear types and seasonality of by-catch. This information was combined with the historical
information to enable the assessment of fisheries and fishing gears associated with adverse impacts on
cetacean populations. Estimation of bycatch rates were developed and are presented in this report. The
virtual absence of information on smaller fishing vessels in Black Sea coastal states surveyed necessitated
a change in approach to surveying and leads to uncertainties about the accuracy of fleet effort estimates.
Together with the paucity of observed by-catch records, estimates of by-catch are subject to significant
caveats are should be used with caution in the absence of further data to improve confidence in the
estimates.
Surveys of cetacean population distribution and abundance were completed for the western Black Sea,
including the waters of Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine. Aerial and boat surveys were completed using
the accepted double-platform method of observation. Both the aircraft and vessel underwent
modifications prior to surveying to support this method of surveying. An additional opportunistic survey
was completed using ferry routes between Ukraine and Georgia to provide a snapshot of populations in
the eastern waters. National permits were obtained for surveying after a lengthy process and an
international team of observers was recruited and trained. Records of cetacean sightings, distances,
angles and concomitant data were collected and stored prior to analysis using Distance 6.0 to derive
estimates of cetacean abundance and distribution in the western Black Sea and to provide crude estimates
for the Black Sea.
Finally, to provide a draft regional strategy for improving cetacean conservation in the Black Sea, a critical
review of global existing approaches and methods to prevent and mitigate cetacean by-catch was
completed, measures were identified in context of the Black Sea to reduce the problem, and a draft
strategy was developed, which is presented in this report.
RESULTS
s, the review of legislation indicates that there is sufficient legislation in place,
particularly within Member State jurisdictions, to research, assess and manage pressures and threats to
cetacean species, and to designate SACs. Strengthening the capacity of the Member States and the
coordination and capacity of regional bodies to implement legislation and to conduct the required
research would appear to be more appropriate than the determination and enactment of additional
legislative instruments.
For most of the 20th century, mass commercial killing remained the principal human activity affecting
Black Sea cetaceans. Purse-seining and shooting were the two principal methods used to capture and kill cetaceans in the Black
Sea cetacean fisheries. Between these two fishery methods, it is commonly acknowledged that the Black
Sea cetacean populations were strongly reduced and that perhaps they have not recovered until recently.
Poaching (illegal, unreported or unregulated – IUU – fishing) is one of the major environmental, economic
and social problems concerning the entire Black Sea region.
More generally, by-catches in fishing gear constitute the major source of human-induced mortality of
Black Sea cetaceans. Porpoises almost always dominate by-catches (often >90% of annual
estimates) when compared to by-catches of common and bottlenose dolphins. With regards to fishing
gear type, bottom set gillnets for turbot are always recorded as the greatest threat to cetaceans although
spiny dogfish set nets are also reported to be a problem.
The
Conservation Plan also draws on various recommendations from regional forums. Generally, five broad
approaches are required, in parallel which encompass specific conservation actions. These approaches
include: 1) Refinement of information on spatial, temporal and metier specific by-catch rates to further
identify areas, seasons and fishery types for focused by-catch mitigation, including a better understanding
of the rates at which each species is taken by each fishery. 2) Improved information of fleet dynamics and
effort. 3) Implementation of by-catch mitigation strategies where there are already obvious requirements.
4) Further investigation of the population dynamics, distribution, density and migration patterns of the
three species of concern. 5) The building or improvement of a management organisation to deliver on
conservation goals, shared management, fleet documentation, training and outreach. The most urgent
action was identified as eliminating illegal fishing for turbot with gillnets.
Baldwin, R.,Collins, T.,Minton, G.,Findlay, K.,Corkeron, P.,Willson, A.,Van Bressem, M.F.
Arabian Sea Humpback Whales: Canaries for the Northern Indian Ocean? Journal Article
In: Document presented to the 62nd meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission. SC/62/SH20, no. 305, pp. 1-5, 2010.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, Threats
@article{,
title = {Arabian Sea Humpback Whales: Canaries for the Northern Indian Ocean?},
author = {Baldwin, R.,Collins, T.,Minton, G.,Findlay, K.,Corkeron, P.,Willson, A.,Van Bressem, M.F.},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {Document presented to the 62nd meeting of the Scientific Committee of the International Whaling Commission. SC/62/SH20},
number = {305},
pages = {1-5},
abstract = {Both historic whaling data and recent field research confirm the presence of a resident sub-population of humpback whales in the western Arabian Sea (Breeding Stock X). This endangered population is geographically, demographically and genetically isolated and is thought to have been greatly reduced in size by Soviet whaling in 1966; it likely remains severely depleted. Current threats to this population, including incidental capture in fishing gear, coastal development and hydrocarbon exploration have increased in recent years and, coupled with possible underlying health issues, raise significant concerns about this population’s viability. When compared with effort and resources aimed at other whale stocks, Breeding Stock X receives disproportionately meagre support for its research and conservation, whilst its status, health and the precautionary principle, imply that it merits at least the same level of concern.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Humpback Whale, megaptera novaeangliae, mitigation, Oman, Threats},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Both historic whaling data and recent field research confirm the presence of a resident sub-population of humpback whales in the western Arabian Sea (Breeding Stock X). This endangered population is geographically, demographically and genetically isolated and is thought to have been greatly reduced in size by Soviet whaling in 1966; it likely remains severely depleted. Current threats to this population, including incidental capture in fishing gear, coastal development and hydrocarbon exploration have increased in recent years and, coupled with possible underlying health issues, raise significant concerns about this population’s viability. When compared with effort and resources aimed at other whale stocks, Breeding Stock X receives disproportionately meagre support for its research and conservation, whilst its status, health and the precautionary principle, imply that it merits at least the same level of concern.