Like most other species, the number of syngnathids taken by trawling is unknown. The only estimate of take is the number sold in Asian markets as officials maintain a record of syngnathids imported from Australia. This number is probably an underestimate as a lot of illegal trade exists in Queensland. At present both state and federal governments have agreed to cease any further exportation of syngnathids until such time as management arrangements are in place and further information is gathered on these animals in Queensland. Sustainable Management Options 1.
Small organisms pass through the bar spacings and accumulate in the codend.
Larger organisms are directed to an exit hole in the net through slanted bars or mesh webbing. BRDs mainly rely on the behavioural reactions of fish and other organisms to actively swim out of the trawl net through escape windows or funnel openings. There will always be large volumes of small fish caught in trawl nets because of their size and behaviour patterns. TEDs and BRDs have been a mandatory requirement in the US shrimp fishery since 1989 with a range of designs being approved. Currently, the United States prohibit the importation of shrimp which are caught by trawlers without TEDs or BRDs.