Marine Animal Welfare

Deep-Sea Trawling and Ecosystem Welfare Impacts

Bottom trawling is one of the most destructive fishing methods, causing massive bycatch mortality and destruction of complex habitats that support diverse marine life.

Key Facts

Bottom trawling is used globally and can cover large areas of seafloor per tow
Cold-water coral reefs and sponge habitats, which take centuries to form, are destroyed by trawls
Bycatch in trawl fisheries can constitute 50-90% of total catch by weight in some fisheries
Non-target species caught as bycatch include commercially endangered fish, sharks, sea turtles and seabirds
The EU banned deep-sea trawling below 800 metres in 2017 but enforcement varies

Welfare Considerations

Deep-sea trawling causes enormous welfare harm through bycatch mortality - animals caught unintentionally experience severe stress, physical injury and death. The destruction of habitat also eliminates shelter and food for countless species. Selective fishing gears, closed areas and reduced fishing effort are the most impactful interventions.

What You Can Do

Choose seafood certified by schemes that exclude destructive fishing methods
Advocate for expanded marine protected areas with strong trawling exclusions
Support campaigns for stronger bycatch reduction requirements
Learn about the ecology of deep-sea habitats and the species they support