Abstract

Abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) is the internationally recognized moniker for derelict fishing gear (DFG). ALDFG is any of the multitude of nets, lines, traps, and other recreational or commercial fishing equipment that is lost, abandoned or otherwise discarded in the marine environment. Little is known about the type, amount, or sources of ALDFG in the Caribbean. A survey of fishers and marine resource professionals was conducted for 14 of the distinct Caribbean States or dependent territories to develop qualitative descriptions of ALDFG in the Caribbean. Survey results indicate that majority of ALDFG was underwater (60.1%) while the remainder was on shorelines (24.6%) or remained floating at sea (15.3%). Fisheries that deploy unattended gear like traps or nets were the primary source of ALDFG. Most ALDFG was the result of inclement weather; however, poor fishing practices, and lack of convenient gear disposal infrastructure contribute to gear abandonment and at-sea discard. Recommendations of survey participants for the reduction of ALDFG include education programs and improved enforcement; however, these options do not address the primary causes of gear abandonment, loss, and discard. Additional outreach and education programs appear to be required to promote existing United Nations Environmental Program and [US] National Academies recommendations to prevent the accumulation of ALDFG by reducing fishing capacity in overcapitalized and over exploited fisheries to address both accidental and intentional gear abandonment, loss, and discard.

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