Polychaete bait fisheries in Galicia (NW Spain)

Abstract

In Galicia (NW Spain) commercial polychaete fisheries have increased their importance compared to other traditional fisheries in recent years, both in terms of catches and economic benefits. We performed a systematic review of scientific literature to analyze the main attributes and the impacts of polychaete fisheries. Official landings statistics in Galicia showed that Scoletoma laurentiana, Diopatra neapolitana, Arenicola marina, and Hediste diversicolor are the species that are sold as bait for recreational fisheries. By an online survey of recreational fishers, we found that 17 % of them collect their own polychaetes, while the majority also buy them with very different frequencies. We estimated that recreational harvest is roughly eight times higher than commercial harvest for some species. Interviews with various stakeholders, including scientists, managers, commercial harvesters, recreational fishers, and sellers, revealed both positive and negative aspects of polychaete fisheries. Challenges include the lack of biological and ecological studies on exploited species and the necessity for reliable stock assessment methods, including the need for weight conversion factors for key species. Additionally, more information on the local and imported polychaete value chains is crucial. Addressing these issues will contribute to the development of more sustainable polychaete harvesting, benefiting both the environment and local and global economies.