Some of the fishing methods used in today’s small-scale fisheries are causing more damage to coral reefs than ever, an online science news site has reported, citing a recent study by the University of British Columbia. According to ScienceDaily, the study was conducted in the Philippines by the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries’ Project Seahorse and the Landscape Ecology Group at the UBC, which tracked changes in the types of fishing methods – such as hand line, traps and nets – used on coral reefs between 1950 and 2010. Researchers found that from the 1960s onwards, the use of relatively sustainable fishing methods like hook and line fishing remained stable, while there was a marked increase in the use of fishing practices that were less selective and more destructive, even illegal.

Phl coral reefs suffering despite laws against destructive fishing. (2018, April 5). The Philippine Star, p. B6.