Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): In trawl net, old pieces of webbing known as false belly.
Reason (R): They are attached below the belly to act as chaffing gear.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is NOT the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is true but (R) is false.
• D. (A) is false but (R) is true.

Hint:

Chaffing gear can be made of various materials including old webbing, specialized plastic "hula" skirts, or cowhide. Its main goal is always the same: protecting the cod-end and belly from seabed abrasion.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Bottom trawling involves dragging a large net along the seabed. Because the lower part of the net (the belly) is in constant contact with the rough seafloor (sand, rocks, shells), it is subject to intense abrasion. Gear protection is essential to prevent costly damage to the main net.
Detailed Explanation:
Analysis of Assertion (A): In commercial fishing, rather than using new, expensive netting for high-wear areas, fishermen often reuse old, worn-out pieces of webbing. These additional layers attached to the main net are referred to as "false bellies" or "cod-end covers." This is a standard terminology in gear technology. Therefore, (A) is true.

Analysis of Reason (R): Chaffing gear refers to any material attached to the outside of a net to protect it from wear and tear caused by rubbing (chaffing) against the ground or the vessel. By attaching a "false belly" underneath the actual belly of the trawl, the sacrificial layer takes all the frictional damage. This preserves the structural integrity of the main net. Therefore, (R) is true.

Evaluating the Relationship: The reason (R) explains why these "false bellies" are used—to serve as chaffing gear. The attachment location (below the belly) and the functional purpose (protection) provide a complete explanation for the practice mentioned in the assertion.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the logical explanation for the use of false bellies in trawl nets.