Impacts of traps on reefs
Thomas R Matthews, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Lobster traps are a ubiquitous feature of the seascape in the Florida Keys. These traps are the primary method commercial fishermen use to harvest spiny lobsters. Although only a small percentage of traps are placed on coral reefs, high winds can move traps from non-reef habitats into reef environments. Tropical cyclones and buoy cutoffs caused by boaters running over trap ropes can result in the loss of tens of thousands of traps. These lost traps will often accumulate and remain on reefs following wind events. These trap movement events are a major source of trap impact to reefs. Efforts to reduce trap damage to reefs include: management of the number of traps in the fishery; marine protected areas prohibiting trap use in some areas with coral; research to design traps which move less during high winds; and education to reduce boater cutoffs of trap buoys.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
2796 Overseas Hwy., Suite 119; Marathon, Florida 33050
Phone: 305 289 2330
[email protected]
Thomas R Matthews, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Lobster traps are a ubiquitous feature of the seascape in the Florida Keys. These traps are the primary method commercial fishermen use to harvest spiny lobsters. Although only a small percentage of traps are placed on coral reefs, high winds can move traps from non-reef habitats into reef environments. Tropical cyclones and buoy cutoffs caused by boaters running over trap ropes can result in the loss of tens of thousands of traps. These lost traps will often accumulate and remain on reefs following wind events. These trap movement events are a major source of trap impact to reefs. Efforts to reduce trap damage to reefs include: management of the number of traps in the fishery; marine protected areas prohibiting trap use in some areas with coral; research to design traps which move less during high winds; and education to reduce boater cutoffs of trap buoys.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
2796 Overseas Hwy., Suite 119; Marathon, Florida 33050
Phone: 305 289 2330
[email protected]