EC Reg. 1967/2006: is square-mesh better selective than larger mesh-size? Comparative experiments in Sicilian trawl fisheries

We investigated the effect of mesh configuration and mesh size on the codend selec-tivity of the species (Aristaeomorpha foliacea), (Parapenaeus longirostris) and (Mullus barbatus), commonly captured in the Sicilian trawl fisheries. For each mesh configuration, square and diamond mesh, two nominal mesh sizes of 44 mm and 54 mm were tested. For both the species, the mesh configuration plays a role which is as important as mesh size.