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Project

Assessment of electric pulse fishing as an environment friendly fishing method in the North Sea (PULSEFFECT)

Main research question/goal
Is pulse fishing for shrimps an ecologically sound alternative for traditional bottom trawling? Can any critical comments regarding pulse fishing be confirmed or denied scientifically? What kind of technical and biological knowledge do we need to promote the use of electric pulses as an alternative fishing method for potentially sustainable and ecological fisheries? The answer to these questions is part of the broader goal to further develop pulse fishing, by mapping any effects on  marine organisms. The experiments are unique and innovative.
 

Research approach
Initially we examine whether the existing Hovercran pulse field has any effect on the different life stages of two fish and two invertebrate species. The eggs, larvae, juveniles and adults are part of the experiment. The next step is to determine how "strong" a pulse field is allowed to be before it causes injuries and mortality. Thus we determine the safe limits for pulse fishing. We take into account the effect of frequency and pulse amplitude, and the pulse shape and pulse duration.
 

Relevance/Valorisation
This project provides answers to frequently asked questions about pulse fishing from industry and society. The knowledge gaps are still numerous. There is no information available on the effects of electric pulses with low intensity (as optimized for shrimp fishing) on sensitive species such as sharks and skates and polychaetes. Data concerning the impact on the various life stages of commercially and ecologically important fish and invertebrates species are not available. Data about the effects of electrical pulses on the quality of shrimp are not available. This information is crucial to allow the further development of pulse fishing.
 
Date:1 Dec 2011 →  30 Nov 2015