Large floating abandoned, lost or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) is frequent marine pollution in the Hawaiian Islands and Palmyra Atoll

Abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) is a major source of marine debris with significant ecological and economic consequences. We documented the frequency, types, sizes, and impacts of ALDFG recovered from HawaiModified Letter Turned Commai and Palmyra Atoll in the Central North Pacific Ocean (CNPO) from 2009 to 2021. A total of 253 events weighing 15 metric tons were recovered, including 120 drifting fish aggregating device (dFAD) components, 61 conglomerates, fewer distinct nets, lines, buoys, and unique gear. The Hawaiian Islands were dominated by conglomerates and Palmyra Atoll by dFADs. DFADs were connected to the Eastern Pacific tropical tuna purse seine fishery. Windward O'ahu experienced up to seven events or 1800 kg of ALDFG per month. Across HawaiModified Letter Turned Comma, ALDFG was present on 55 % of survey days, including hotspots with 100 % occurrence. Coral reef damage, entangled wildlife, navigational and removal costs are reported. The data highlight the large magnitude of ALDFG and associated impacts in the CNPO.

Automated summary

Abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) is a significant source of marine debris with ecological and economic consequences. The study documents the frequency, types, sizes, and impacts of ALDFG recovered from the Central North Pacific Ocean. The data highlights the large magnitude of ALDFG and associated impacts in the area.