<![CDATA[Set bottom gillnets are a selective fishing gear widely used by traditional fishers in the coastal waters of the Sangihe Islands. This study aims to identify the species composition of Reef-associated demersal fishes caught by set bottom gillnets and to analyze the catching mechanisms based on fish morphology and behavioral characteristics. The study was conducted using an experimental fishing method by operating four units of set bottom gillnets locally known as Soma Tataing in the coastal waters of Kaleheng Beach, Kuma 1 Village, Tabukan Tengah District, from July to November 2025. A descriptive quantitative approach was applied through direct observation of fishing operation time, fishing ground location, water depth, species composition, abundance, and catching mechanisms of the fish. The results showed that the set bottom gillnets caught 59 individual fishes comprising 16 genera and 26 demersal fish species. The family Holocentridae dominated the catch, accounting for 26% of the total catch, while Zebrasoma velifer was the least captured species. Analysis of catching mechanisms revealed four main capture modes, namely snagged, gilled, wedged, and entangled. These mechanisms were strongly influenced by fish body shape, protruding body parts, and fish behavioral responses to the presence of the gillnet. The findings indicate that the effectiveness and selectivity of set bottom gillnets are closely related to the suitability of fishing ground characteristics with demersal fish habitats and their movement patterns. This study provides important insights into the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable fishing technologies in small island coastal waters.]]>
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