James RickardEffots to save coral reefs
December 15th 2009 00:13
Here's a link to an interesting report from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies. According to the report, banning certain fishing gear can help preserve the ocean's coral reefs.
Research has shown certain types of gear may be more damaging to coral than others. These include, spear guns, various traps and nets.
It stands to reason that something like a net would disturb the ocean bottom as it moves along. Spear guns are noted in the report because wounded fish often seek sanctuary among the coral rocks and divers then break the coral in a effort to get the fish.
What the article fails to mention is damage caused by shots that miss. Just like a bullet, something has to stop an errant underwater spear. Too many novice divers are captivated by their surrounding and fail to appreciate their surroundi8ngs.
Maybe you think an outright ban on spear guns is in order. The report goes on to remind readers that for many a spear gun may be the only method to harvest fish because because they are cheap to make with definite results. Therefore, they are essential to the poorest fish harvesters and a ban would contribute to the decline of their livelihood.
All in all, a thought provoking article!
Remember to take the hooks outta yer pocket before ya sit down!
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