A recent study reveals that fish aggregating devices (FADs) used in tuna fishing are causing harm to marine life and coral reefs, including within protected areas. These drifting rafts, essential for catching smaller tropical tuna like skipjack found in canned tuna, have been found in over half of the world’s marine protected zones, despite fishing bans in those areas.
FADs, typically made of wood or bamboo with plastic components, attract fish by providing shelter, making it easier for fishing boats to net them. Traditionally, mesh nets were used under FADs but were banned in 2025 due to entanglement risks to wildlife, with ropes now being used instead.
The study reported more than 6,000 instances of FADs stranding in 174 protected areas, causing damage to coral reefs and posing a threat to species like sharks and turtles. The waste generated by these devices accumulates in certain regions, impacting wildlife and hindering nesting sea turtles’ movements.
Efforts to address these issues include sustainability certifications like Marine Stewardship Council labels on tuna cans, which incentivize fishing companies to adopt eco-friendly practices. Initiatives such as the development of biodegradable “jelly FADs” by the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation aim to reduce environmental impacts.
Recommendations to mitigate FAD-related problems include limiting the number of FADs deployed, avoiding release in high-risk areas, and promoting the retrieval of old devices by fishing companies. Collaboration between stakeholders and ongoing research are crucial to improving FAD fishing practices and minimizing ecological harm.