Reducing ghost fishing from lost lobster traps in Brazil
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This fact sheet summarizes key findings from lobster trap modification trials in Brazil to reduce ghost fishing. An “Eco-trap” was developed with lobster and fish exclusion components, and an “Anti-Ghost Fishing Device” (AGFD). The AGFD employs cotton or sisal biodegradable twine attached to an iron rebar to cover an escape panel in the trap. If the lobster trap is lost, abandoned, or discarded to the marine environment, the biodegradable twines will degrade within three to six months, enabling the opening of the escape panel for any entrapped lobsters and other species to exit, thus reducing the trap’s ability to ghost fish. The AGFD opening/breakage time is controlled by the number of knots from the biodegradable twine, with more knots resulting in longer times to breakage. Eco-trap trials showed the AGFD to be simple, effective, and adaptable to most traps.Gear modification trails were undertaken in collaboration with and with feedback from local fishing cooperatives, with fishers advising on trap design considerations including AGFD placement. Fisher feedback informed the development of adaptive trap designs to ensure practical, fisher-friendly use. Awareness raising activities were also undertaken with local fishing communities around the impacts of abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) and the possibility of gear modifications to reduce ghost fishing from ALDFG. The QR code in the bottom left corner of the fact sheet links to a detailed publication on the gear modification trials, including methodology, results and lessons learned.