OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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Prepare for the OCR GCSE Biology Exam with detailed quizzes, flashcards, and explanations. Enhance your understanding of biology concepts and get exam-ready today!

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What happens to fish that are caught but exceed the allowed quota?

They are kept for research purposes
They are returned to the sea dead
They are sold at a lower price
They are given to local communities

The correct answer is: They are returned to the sea dead

When fish are caught that exceed the allowed quota, they are often returned to the sea, and many of these fish do not survive due to stress, injury, or the effects of being out of water for an extended period. This practice is primarily seen in fishing operations that follow sustainability guidelines aimed at protecting fish populations and ensuring they are not overfished. Returning excess fish is a management strategy designed to prevent disruption of the ecosystem and maintain fish stocks for future generations. Fish that are caught legally but exceed quotas reinforce the importance of regulations to manage fish populations sustainably. While some fish might be observed to survive after being returned, a significant number inevitably die as a result of the catch-and-release process, often referred to as 'bycatch' when it involves non-target species.