What is the primary function of the cathode in electrofishing?

The cathode in electrofishing plays a critical role by providing a return path for the electrical current. When an electrofishing device is activated, it creates a closed electrical circuit, and the cathode is key to completing this circuit. The current flows through the water, and the fish in the vicinity become temporarily incapacitated due to the electric field. By serving as the return electrode, the cathode helps ensure that the electric current can flow efficiently, allowing for effective fish capture and reducing the risk of injury to both the fish and the equipment.

The function of the cathode is not to attract fish, increase voltage, or monitor fish health. While anode placement and the electric field can influence fish behavior to approach the anode, the cathode's primary purpose is focused on maintaining the integrity of the circuit. Increasing voltage does not directly relate to the cathode's function, as the voltage is typically set according to the requirements for effective electrofishing. Monitoring fish health is entirely outside the scope of the cathode's operational role.