Why are long line fishing and drift nets considered hazardous to fish and other marine animals?

• A. They promote the growth of coral reefs by providing artificial structures.
• B. They increase the oxygen levels in the water, causing fish to become disoriented.
• C. They often result in bycatch, unintentionally capturing non-target species such as dolphins, turtles, and seabirds.
• D. They only target invasive species, leaving native populations unaffected.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of bycatch: Bycatch refers to the unintentional capture of non-target species during fishing activities. This includes marine animals such as dolphins, turtles, seabirds, and other species that are not the intended catch.
2. Examine the fishing methods: Longline fishing involves using a long fishing line with baited hooks, which can extend for miles. Drift nets are large nets that float in the water and can trap anything in their path. Both methods are non-selective, meaning they do not discriminate between target and non-target species.
3. Analyze the impact on marine life: Bycatch can lead to the injury or death of non-target species, many of which are endangered or protected. This disrupts marine ecosystems and threatens biodiversity.
4. Consider the ecological consequences: The removal of non-target species can have cascading effects on the food web, potentially destabilizing marine ecosystems and reducing the population of key species.
5. Conclude why these methods are hazardous: Longline fishing and drift nets are considered hazardous because they often result in bycatch, unintentionally capturing and harming non-target species, which can have significant ecological and conservation implications.