Behaviour in a bottom trawl: moving forward to limit catches of Atlantic cod

Abstract The iconic Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua Linnaeus, 1758) has inspired a substantial body of fishing-gear research across its geographical range, with recent efforts predominately to reduce catches this species in fisheries where their populations are fragile. Despite status and long history study compared other species, our understanding behaviour during the capture process bottom trawl remains frustratingly limited. Much is derived indirectly through catch results, supported limited extent by direct observations situ or held laboratories. In paper, we describe four challenges directions that consider critical advance knowledge behaviour, ultimately, improve selectivity trawls cod. These include resurrection behavioural directly observe measure reaction sensory capabilities, improved interpretation response trawl. It also view progress limiting should emphasize stimulating avoidance at mouth an approaching trawl, rather than retrospectively attempting do so after they have entered mouth.