Schleppnetz

Schleppnetz is a German term that translates to "trawl net" or "dragnet." It refers to a type of fishing net that is towed through the water behind a boat or other vessel. The net is typically cone-shaped and is designed to scoop up fish and other marine organisms as it is dragged along the seabed or through the water column.

There are various types of schleppnetze, differing in mesh size, net construction, and the depth at which they are deployed. Bottom trawling nets, for example, are designed to be dragged along the seafloor, capturing demersal species. Pelagic trawls are used in the open ocean to catch schooling fish that inhabit the upper layers of the water.

The use of schleppnetze is a common fishing method worldwide. However, it has also been associated with environmental concerns. Bottom trawling, in particular, can have significant impacts on marine habitats, including damage to coral reefs and seafloor ecosystems. Concerns also exist regarding bycatch, the unintentional capture of non-target species, and the sustainability of fish stocks when large-scale trawling is employed. Regulations and management practices are in place in many regions to mitigate these impacts and ensure responsible fishing.