PURSE SEINING Meaning and
Definition
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Purse seining is a fishing technique characterized by the use of a large net, known as a purse seine, to catch fish in large quantities. The term "purse" here refers to the way the bottom of the net can be closed, forming a purse-like shape to trap fish.
This method involves the use of a specialized vessel, such as a purse seiner, which typically has a large open deck to accommodate the net handling operations. The net, usually made of strong synthetic material, is deployed into the water and encircles an area where fish are located, such as a school of fish near the surface. The vessel then slowly moves in a circular pattern, gradually reducing the radius of the net to trap the fish within it.
Once the fish are effectively surrounded by the purse seine net, the bottom of the net is closed using the drawstring-like mechanism at the bottom, which gives the net its name. This creates a barrier that prevents the fish from escaping. The net is then hauled onto the vessel along with the trapped fish.
Purse seining is commonly used in commercial fishing to target pelagic or surface-dwelling species, such as tuna, sardines, anchovies, and mackerel. It is particularly useful for capturing large amounts of fish in a short period, making it an efficient method for commercial fishing operations. However, the impact of purse seining on fish stocks and ecosystems can be a subject of concern, as it can lead to overfishing and incidental bycatch of non-target species.
Etymology of PURSE SEINING
The term "purse seining" has its roots in the English language, specifically in the combination of the words "purse" and "seining". Here is the breakdown of each component:
1. Purse: The word "purse" originally comes from the Old English word "purs", derived from the Late Latin word "bursa", meaning "bag" or "purse". It referred to a small bag used to carry money or personal belongings. Over time, the term was extended to describe a variety of bags, especially those used for holding or enclosing objects.
2. Seining: The word "seining" is a noun form derived from the verb "seine", which, in turn, comes from the Middle Dutch "sēne". Seining refers to a fishing technique that involves using a large net called a "seine" to enclose and catch fish or other aquatic creatures.
