Guidelines for Evaluating Artificial Light to Mitigate Unwanted Fisheries Bycatch

Evaluating artificial light as a bycatch reduction device (bycatch reduction light, “BRL”) requires a multidisciplinary approach that applies knowledge of fisheries science, fishing technology, engineering, physics, optics, vision biology, oceanography, animal behavior, economics, and social science. To support the continued evaluation of BRL, these guidelines were developed for conducting standardized and systematic studies. The guidelines highlight how information from those fields of study contributes to the efficacy of study design and the evaluation of results. The guidance is focused on four core areas: (i) defining the objective of using a BRL; (ii) understanding the context in which the BRL is applied and considering the base knowledge that is needed; (iii) selecting an appropriate study design (including selection and placement of the BRL) and analytical methods for measuring both behavioral responses and catch outcomes from using the BRL; and (iv) interpreting the data through the lens of the base knowledge, context, and study design, and evaluating the results against an established definition of success and variables that affect adoption. The purpose of these guidelines is to increase the ability of researchers and managers to determine if BRL is appropriate for a fishery and to encourage consistency in data collection among studies to support future meta-analyses and inter-study comparison. In addition, suggestions are provided on where more research and technology development are needed to support this rapidly emerging field of research.