Summary
This study compiled data from National and Regional Plans of Action (POAs) and Regional Fishery Management Organizations (RFMOs) to investigate whether commercial fisheries practice the release of live sharks and rays caught as bycatch. Results indicate that onboard releases are cited in some POAs and RFMO recommendations, the measure has only voluntary adherence and is not considered priority. The authors call for a change in the perception of live elasmobranch releases as a conservation strategy.