GIBRIL SESAY: MO230201954

FISHERIES RESOURCES

Describe how dredges gear works

Dredge gear is a type of fishing equipment used to harvest shellfish such as scallops, clams, and
oysters from the seabed. It typically consists of a metal frame with a chain bag or basket
attached, designed to be dragged along the seafloor by a fishing vessel. As the dredge is towed,
the metal frame scrapes along the seabed, dislodging shellfish from the substrate and capturing
them in the chain bag or basket. The dredged shellfish are then brought on board the vessel for
sorting, with marketable specimens retained for sale and undersized or non-target species
returned to the sea. Dredge gear can be operated in a variety of marine environments, including
shallow coastal waters and deeper offshore areas, making it a versatile tool for commercial
shellfish harvesting operations. However, concerns have been raised about the environmental
impact of dredging, including habitat destruction and disruption of benthic ecosystems,
prompting calls for sustainable management practices and regulation of dredge fishing activities.

Describe the practical case of Razor Clam fishery using dredges in the industrial fishing

In industrial fishing, the use of dredges for razor clam fisheries involves deploying specialized
equipment to harvest razor clams from the seabed on a large scale. Dredges designed for razor
clam fishing typically consist of a metal frame with a chain bag or basket attached, which is
dragged along the seafloor by a fishing vessel. As the dredge moves, it dislodges razor clams
from the substrate, capturing them in the chain bag or basket. Once onboard the vessel, the catch
is sorted, with marketable razor clams retained for sale and undersized or non-target specimens
returned to the sea. Industrial razor clam dredging operations often occur in coastal areas with
sandy or muddy substrates where razor clams are abundant, and the catch is processed for
distribution to domestic and international markets. However, concerns exist regarding the
potential environmental impacts of industrial dredging, including habitat disturbance and bycatch
of non-target species, highlighting the importance of sustainable management practices and
regulatory oversight in razor clam fisheries.
What is the impact of this gear on the marine ecosystems, habitats, and fishing suitability?

The use of dredges in fishing can have significant impacts on marine ecosystems, habitats, and
fishing suitability. Dredging operations can cause habitat destruction by disturbing the seabed
substrate, disrupting benthic communities, and damaging sensitive habitats such as coral reefs
and seagrass beds. Additionally, the physical impact of dredging gear scraping along the seabed
can result in sediment resuspension, which can lead to increased turbidity and sedimentation,
affecting water quality and light penetration essential for marine life. Furthermore, the
indiscriminate nature of dredging can result in bycatch of non-target species, including juveniles
and non-commercial organisms, further altering ecosystem dynamics and reducing overall
biodiversity. These impacts can ultimately diminish the suitability of fishing grounds and
compromise the long-term sustainability of marine resources, underscoring the need for careful
management and regulation of dredging activities to mitigate their environmental consequences.

Give the name of these different parts of the different dredges

Sure, here are the names of different parts commonly found in various types of dredges used in
fishing:

1. Dredge Frame or Frame: The structural framework of the dredge, typically made of
metal, which supports the other components and provides stability during operation.
2. Chain Bag or Basket: The part of the dredge where the harvested shellfish or other
marine organisms are collected as the dredge is towed along the seabed.
3. Tow Bridle: The attachment point on the dredge frame where the towing cables or ropes
are connected to the fishing vessel.
4. Towing Cables or Ropes: Heavy-duty cables or ropes used to tow the dredge along the
seabed, typically attached to winches or hydraulic systems onboard the fishing vessel.
5. Cutting Bar or Cutting Teeth: Some dredges may be equipped with cutting bars or
teeth along the leading edge of the frame to help cut through sediment and facilitate the
collection of shellfish.
 6. Floats or Buoyancy Devices: In some dredge designs, floats or buoyancy devices may
be attached to the frame to help keep the dredge suspended above the seabed and reduce
friction during towing.

These are some of the common components found in dredges used for fishing, although specific
designs may vary depending on the target species and fishing method.

What is the different between this fishing gear and bottom trawl net

The key difference between dredges and bottom trawl nets lies in their method of operation and
the types of marine organisms they target. Dredges are specialized fishing equipment designed to
harvest shellfish such as scallops, clams, and oysters from the seabed. They typically consist of a
metal frame with a chain bag or basket attached, which is dragged along the seafloor to dislodge
and collect shellfish. In contrast, bottom trawl nets are large, funnel-shaped nets with open
mouths that are towed along the seabed to capture a wide variety of demersal fish species and
other marine organisms. While both gears operate near the seabed, dredges are specifically
designed for harvesting shellfish, whereas bottom trawl nets are more versatile and can target a
broader range of species that inhabit the bottom of the ocean. Additionally, bottom trawl nets
may have a greater potential for habitat disturbance and bycatch of non-target species compared
to dredges, depending on their design and fishing method.