CESAM, the Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, has drawn attention to the significant impact of bycatch on dolphin mortality in Portuguese waters, with estimates indicating that at least one dolphin dies every day due to interactions with fishing gear.

The findings, featured in the Portuguese newspaper Público, are based on monitoring and scientific analyses involving CESAM researcher Catarina Eira from the University of Aveiro. Researchers note that the figures are likely conservative, as many deaths occur at sea and remain unrecorded.

Bycatch is considered one of the main threats to several marine species, particularly those with low reproductive rates and vulnerable conservation status. In Portugal, fishing gears such as gillnets, trammel nets and longlines have been identified as especially critical when operating near feeding areas and migration routes.

The research also supports the development of Portugal’s Action Plan for the Minimization of Bycatch of Birds, Mammals and Marine Reptiles, expected to enter into force in 2026. The plan aims to strengthen monitoring, introduce mitigation measures and promote more sustainable fishing practices to reduce impacts on marine biodiversity.

Read more: here.

Picture Credits: CESAM