What is Bycatch?

 

Bycatch means the accidental capture of marine animals that are not the intended target of fishing, such as marine mammals, sea turtles, or young fish, when fishermen use large nets or other fishing gear. Especially, during the process of trawling, where a bog net is dragged across the ocean floor marine wildlife is often accidentally trapped inside. This often happens during trawling, where a large net is dragged across the ocean floor and wildlife is accidentally trapped inside. Many of these animals are discarded at sea, but most do not survive because of physical stress and injuries caused by the entanglement or being thrown back.

 

In Cambodia, bycatch is recognised as one of the biggest threats to marine wildlife, especially endangered species whose populations are already at risk. Reducing bycatch is essential for protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring the survival of Cambodia’s unique marine life. To address this, Khmer Ocean Life works alongside fishers to develop better techniques and solutions, aiming to save wildlife while safeguarding the main source of income for fishing communities.