Fishermen sometimes catch and discard animals they do not want, cannot sell, or are not allowed to keep. This is collectively known as “bycatch.” Bycatch can be fish, but also includes other animals such as dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and seabirds that become hooked or entangled in fishing gear.

It is estimated that 300,000 small whales and dolphins, 50 million sharks and rays and 250,000 turtles die annually as bycatch. Many of these animals are keystone species, which means they play a crucial role in their ecosystem. As a result, ecosystems may collapse without them.

Oil Painting 80x120cm
Depth: 3 meters
Location Kuwait, Persian gulf