Effect of using biodegradable PBSAT gillnets on the Catch efficiency and quality of Greenland halibut (Reinhardtius hippoglossoides)

Abstract

The effect of using biodegradable polybutylene succinate co‐adipate‐co‐terephthalate (PBSAT) gill nets on the relative catch efficiency was assessed in a commercial gill‐net fishery targeting Greenland Halibut Reinhardtius hippoglossoides in northern Norway. Compared with conventional polyamide gill nets, the PBSAT gill nets caught fewer fish, and the relative catch efficiency decreased with increasing fish size. For fish larger than 65 cm, the reduction in catch efficiency was significant, as the PBSAT gill nets caught 30% fewer Greenland Halibut in this size range than the conventional polyamide gill nets. Differences in mesh size, breaking strength, and elasticity could contribute to the difference in size‐dependent catch efficiency between the two types of gill nets.