UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

The Common Smooth-hound Shark (Mustelus mustelus Linnaeus, 1758) is a widespread Mediterranean elasmobranch frequently impacted by artisanal fisheries. This study investigates its occurrence, bycatch patterns, habitat associations, and fishery interactions in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, based on landing-site observations, fisheries data, and interviews with fishermen. The results show that the species is a regular year-round component of artisanal catches, with an estimated annual bycatch of about 200–300 individuals. It is strongly associated with sandy continental shelf habitats and is mainly captured as bycatch in bottom-set longlines, followed by trammel nets, gillnets, and bottom trawlers, reflecting strong overlap with demersal fisheries. Total lengths ranged from approximately 60–110 cm TL, with most individuals between 70 and 100 cm TL, while body weights ranged from about 1.5 to 7 kg, with occasional larger individuals exceeding 8 kg. The population is dominated by medium-sized individuals, with relatively few large adults, suggesting possible fishing-induced demographic changes. Although not a targeted species, it is regularly retained and sold locally, contributing to small-scale economic value and food supply. These findings align with broader Mediterranean evidence of declining resilience in coastal shark populations under sustained fishing pressure. Given its role as a benthic mesopredator and vulnerability to non-selective gears, current exploitation may be unsustainable. Improved monitoring, gear selectivity, and fisher awareness are recommended to support conservation and sustainable management.