The incidental capture of five species of sea turtles by coastal setnet fisheries in the Eastern waters of Taiwan

The incidental capture of sea turtles by the coastal setnet fisheries in Eastern Taiwan was investigated. Five species of sea turtle were caught — in declining order of abundance, green Chelonia mydas, loggerhead Caretta caretta, hawksbill Eretmochelys imbricata, olive ridley Lepidochelys olivacea, and leatherback Dermochelys coriacea. Green, loggerhead and olive ridley sea turtles used the east coast waters of Taiwan as their benthic habitats. Most of the captured turtles were sold to be subsequently released in religious ceremonies. Although none of the turtles were drowned in situ, the setnet fisheries could have a negative impact on their populations. Some mitigating recommendations are made.