The Horrific Journey of Deep-Sea Fish Caught in Nets

Introduction to Deep-Sea Fishing and Its Challenges

As part of the ongoing debate surrounding the controversial practices in deep-sea fishing, it is critical to highlight the plight of deep-sea fishes caught by fishermen in their nets. From the moment these creatures are captured, their survival is often precarious. This article delves into the pain and suffering endured by deep-sea fishes during their ascent to the surface, addressing key issues such as barotrauma and bycatch.

Barotrauma: Dieing Due to Extreme Pressure Changes

Upon capture, deep-sea fishes are subjected to significant stress due to the sudden change in pressure from the deep ocean to the surface. This phenomenon, known as barotrauma, can lead to severe physiological damage and often results in the death of the fish. The sudden decompression causes the fish's stomach to expand, leading to internal injuries. Additionally, the eyes and other organs can protrude, and internal organs may suffer from damage. These stresses can be so severe that they result in immediate death or a slow, painful demise.

Physical Damage from Fishing Nets

The process of being caught in a net can also cause physical injuries. Trapped fish may endure torn fins, damaged scales, and other traumas. Gillnets, in particular, are notorious for causing prolonged suffering. These nets are often set and left unattended, with fish trapped for days. Many fish bleed to death before the ship returns to retrieve them.

Bycatch: Non-Target Species and Habitat Destruction

Deep-sea fishing practices often result in high levels of bycatch, where non-target species are inadvertently caught and subsequently discarded, often dead. Specific fishing methods, such as bottom trawling, can cause severe damage to seafloor habitats, disrupting the ecosystem and causing long-lasting environmental harm.

The Horror of Gillnetting and Purse Seining

Gillnetting: Gillnets, a common method of fishing, can be particularly cruel. Trapped fish may suffer for days. Many bleed to death, and those surviving are often ripped from the net, leading to suffocation or death by cuts. The extreme change in pressure during the ascent can cause their stomachs to protrude from their mouths, and their eyes to burst from their heads.

Purse Seining: Another fishing method, purse seining, primarily used for catching tuna, can also lead to significant suffering. While this method has aroused public outrage due to the incidental capture of dolphins, it also results in the death of millions of intelligent and sensitive tuna. The nets can rip hundreds of tons of fish and other marine life out of the ocean, with many fish suffering extreme decompression and fatal injuries.

Conclusion: The Cruelty and Urgency of Addressing These Issues

The methods used to catch deep-sea fish are fraught with inhumane practices that cause immense suffering to the fish. Regardless of the fishing method, casualties are high, and the pain and suffering endured by these creatures should not be overlooked. Addressing these issues requires a collective effort towards more sustainable and humane fishing practices. Public awareness and advocacy can play a crucial role in pushing for stricter regulations and more ethical methods in the fishing industry.