Trap fisheries for squid and their impact on spawning

Abstract

The squid trap is an artisanal type of fishing gear widely used in the Gulf of Thailand and along the Andaman coast. In 1994 the total catch of cephalopods by Thailand was 144 436 tons, of which 5% was from squid traps. The trap is covered by coconut fronds and set from 4 to >40 m deep, hanging above the sea bottom with the entrance facing upwards. Egg clusters are placed in the trap to entice squid to enter. Species caught include Sepioteuthis lessoniana (about 80%), Sepia pharaonis and Sepia aculeata, all mature animals coming to spawn.