The use of otter guards in fyke net surveys and their effect on catches of European Eel Anguilla anguilla

The European eel is critically endangered and European member states are required to undertake measures to ensure the recovery of eel stocks. The otter is also a protected species under international legislation. As a predator of the eel the otter is often caught in fyke nets located close to shore and in shallow water and otter guards can be used to reduce this unwanted by-catch. This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of otter...