Driftnets: Covering Large Areas of the Ocean

Introduction

Driftnets, also known as drift nets, are fishing nets that are commonly used in commercial fishing operations to catch fish and other marine organisms. These nets are designed to float freely in the water, allowing them to cover large areas of the ocean. While driftnets have been used for centuries, they have become a topic of concern due to their negative impact on marine ecosystems. This article will explore the use of driftnets, the problems associated with them, and the efforts being made to address these issues.

Types of Driftnets

There are several different types of driftnets that are used in commercial fishing operations. One common type is the pelagic driftnet, which is used to target pelagic species such as tuna, swordfish, and squid. These nets are typically made of fine mesh and can stretch for miles in length. Another type is the gillnet, which is a vertical net that is anchored at the bottom and floats vertically in the water column. Gillnets are typically used to catch fish that swim close to the surface.

The Use of Driftnets

Driftnets are commonly used by commercial fishing fleets in various parts of the world. The North Pacific region, for example, supports some of the largest-scale driftnet fisheries, which primarily target species such as salmon, squid, and herring. These fisheries often employ large fleets of vessels equipped with driftnets that can stretch for miles in length.

Driftnets are known for their ability to cover large areas of the ocean, making them an efficient fishing method for catching fish and other marine organisms. However, their non-selective nature also leads to significant bycatch. Bycatch refers to the unintentional capture of non-target species, such as dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds. This bycatch often results in the injury or death of these animals, posing a threat to marine biodiversity.

Environmental Impact

The use of driftnets has been associated with numerous environmental problems. One major concern is the high level of bycatch. Many marine species, including endangered and protected species, become entangled in driftnets and are unable to escape. This leads to population decline and disrupts the balance of marine ecosystems.

Driftnets also contribute to overfishing and the depletion of target species. The wide-reaching nature of these nets makes it easy to catch large quantities of fish, often exceeding sustainable levels. This poses a threat to the long-term viability of commercial fishing operations and affects the livelihoods of those who depend on fishing for their income.

Efforts to Address the Issue

Recognizing the environmental problems caused by driftnets, there have been various international efforts to regulate and ban their use. In 1992, the United Nations adopted a resolution calling for a global moratorium on large-scale driftnets on the high seas. Many countries have also implemented national laws and regulations to restrict or ban the use of driftnets.

Despite these efforts, driftnet fishing still persists in some regions due to a lack of enforcement and monitoring. Additionally, there are challenges in implementing effective alternatives to driftnets that can provide sustainable livelihoods for fishermen while reducing the impact on marine ecosystems.

Alternative Fishing Methods

To address the problems associated with driftnet fishing, alternative fishing methods have been developed. One such method is the use of more selective fishing gear, such as circle hooks and fish aggregating devices (FADs). These gears allow fishermen to target specific species while minimizing bycatch.

Another alternative is the use of sustainable fishing practices, such as fisheries management plans and marine protected areas. These practices aim to ensure the long-term sustainability of fish stocks and protect vulnerable marine species.

Conclusion

Driftnets are an efficient fishing method for covering large areas of the ocean, but they come with significant environmental costs. The high levels of bycatch and overfishing associated with driftnets have led to widespread concerns about their use. Despite efforts to regulate and ban their use, driftnet fishing still persists in some regions. It is crucial for governments, international organizations, and fishermen to work together to find sustainable alternatives to driftnets and protect the health and biodiversity of our oceans.