What is the term for the accidental capture of whale sharks in fishing gear intended for other species?
Answer
Bycatch
One of the most significant threats contributing to the Endangered status of the whale shark is accidental capture, a phenomenon specifically termed bycatch. This occurs when these large, placid animals become entangled in fishing apparatus or gear that was originally set or deployed to target entirely different species. Addressing bycatch, alongside mitigating risks from vessel strikes and plastic ingestion, is crucial for effective global management of this slow-maturing species.
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