1. Fish or other marine animals caught unintentionally in fishing nets or traps meant for other species.
Usage: commonly used in commercial fishing and marine conservation contexts

Examples

• The fishing fleet reduced bycatch by using selective nets that allow smaller fish to escape.
• Dolphins are often killed as bycatch in tuna fishing operations.
• Environmental groups are pushing for stricter regulations to minimize bycatch in the fishing industry.
• The new fishing gear was designed to decrease bycatch of endangered sea turtles.
• Scientists estimate that millions of tons of bycatch are discarded from commercial fishing each year.
• Bycatch of non-target species is a major concern for ocean conservation.