The Franciscana Dolphin: On the Edge of Survival - Chapter 15: Alternative fishing methods, the potential use of “pingers,” and other solutions to reduce the bycatch of franciscana dolphins (Pontoporia blainvillei)

The main threat of franciscana dolphins (Pontoporia blainvillei) is the incidental bycatch in artisanal fishing gillnets. Several studies were implemented during the past two decades along with the local fishing communities in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina in order to address this conservation issue. Acoustic deterrent devices, commonly known as “pingers”, were shown to be one of the most effective bycatch mitigation method. Bottom longlines were tested as alternative fishing gear and resulted in reduced bycatch but fishermen found them difficult to implement. Gillnets modified to be acoustically reflective and have greater stiffness were ineffictive for reducing bycatch. The conclusions from this body of research is important for informing effective strategies for mitigating franciscana bycatch.