Updated: Information on protecting Tope, shark finning, protective measures and pair trawling for bass added

Many marine species are protected by EU and UK wildlife legislation from intentional or deliberate disturbance, taking, harm and killing, and in some cases possession or sale.

The offences that apply will depend on the species, activity and location. The tables below provide a summary of what marine species are protected and by what legislation. Please refer to the legislation directly for details of offences and defences, or contact your local Marine Management Organisation office for further advice.

Some of the species are also protected by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and are labelled in the guidance.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/protected-marine-species