Western Australian fishers are being encouraged to share their experiences with shark depredation in a new national survey aimed at finding solutions to a growing issue.
Shark depredation occurs when sharks damage or eat fish caught on lines before they can be landed. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is backing the survey as part of a wider research effort to better understand and manage the problem.
Funded by the Australian Government through the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, the survey is part of a national project being run in partnership with Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries.
WA fishers, both recreational and commercial, are invited to take part in the online survey before it closes on August 15.
The survey is hosted by Edith Cowan University and can be accessed through the SHARK25A link.
Principal Research Scientist Gary Jackson said data from the survey would help shape ongoing research into shark depredation.
“We have directly asked for assistance from peak bodies in WA, fishing clubs and other key stakeholders, and we greatly appreciate their help in encouraging participation,” he said.
“Shark depredation is not only a problem in Australia, but also an issue internationally.”
A recent study published in the ‘Journal of Marine Science’ found that snapper and grouper were the most frequently targeted species off the south east coast of the United States, with bull sharks and sandbar sharks among the main offenders.
Dr Jackson said Australian feedback would help improve fisheries management and identify new ways to reduce interactions with sharks.
Survey responses will be kept confidential and used for research purposes only. Data will be retained for two years after the project ends.
More details about the shark depredation project can be found at the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation website.
