Assessing the impact of buffer towing on the quality of Northeast Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) caught with a bottom trawl

摘要: Abstract The dense aggregations of Northeast Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) in the Barents Sea have led to a new fishing practice termed “buffer towing.” In this fishery, many trawlers redeploy trawl directly after taking catch onboard an attempt secure continuous supply fish and avoid any unnecessary stops during processing. If approximate desired amount is caught or exceeded before from previous haul processed, lifted off seabed towed at given depth low speed, usually ∼1–2 knots, until production capacity factory restored. Both researchers fishermen believe that buffer towing has negative impact on quality, as indicated by increased frequency gear marks dead fish, poorer exsanguination, ecchymosis, skin abrasion, fillet gaping, redness. However, effect quality not been scientifically evaluated. aim study was document effects quality. assessed using two different indexes, one for whole fillets. results proved Specifically, subjected towing, contrast direct haul-back, had relative probability 371% poor exsanguination 209% Furthermore, combining scores categories within indexes (e.g., marks, abrasion) significant reduction towing.