Abstract

Based on records by on board observers, bycatch composition, bycatch rates and total annual bycatch of the shrimp trawl fishery off Colombia, Caribbean Sea, were estimated. Estimates of annual bycatch were calculated based on bycatch rates and fishing effort information. Confidence intervals were calculated by bootstrap procedures. 185 taxa (January 2000 – June 2001), a bycatch to shrimp catch ratio of 16.6 (13.4 – 21.3, C.I. 95%) and an annual bycatch estimation of 4538 t (4114 - 5122, C.I. 95%) were computed in the northern fishing zone. In the southern fishing zone, 253 taxa (August 2004 - July 2005) were registered, a bycatch to shrimp catch ratio of 10.8 (9.8 – 11.8, C.I. 95%) and an annual bycatch of 2507 t (2118 – 2980, I.C. 95%) were estimated. Bycatch to shrimp catch ratios ranked among the highest in the world. Proliferation of benthic scavengers (Portunidae) could be attributed to the high levels of discards. Species contributing to habitat structure, like sponges, shown high catch rates. In summary, the results suggest a deteriorate condition in the ecosystem and stress the urgent need of mitigation measures if we are to maintain its functioning.

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