Network-spectrum. Invisible threat to seas and oceans

Abandoned fishing nets, called "spectral networks", are one of the most dangerous threats to marine fauna and flora. Invisible and uncontrollable, for decades they travel the oceans, killing thousands of sea creatures. These networks are a deadly trap, not only destroying life in water, but also destroying ecosystems such as coral reefs, and bringing huge losses to fisheries.

Web-spectma: Invisible Sea Killers

Millions of animals die in the oceans every year because of abandoned fishing nets. These "spectra networks" that accidentally or intentionally stay in the seas do not cease to fulfil their role even after they leave fishing boats. They are drifting in the waters, engulfing fish, birds, turtles, and marine mammals whose chances of survival are negligible. This invisible threat has far-reaching consequences, not only for living in the seas, but also for the entire ecosystems and people who benefit from these ecosystems.

According to WWF data, as much as 10% of plastic waste in the oceans is abandoned fishing equipment. In the region of the Great Pacific Garbage Plague, a famous aggregate of oceanic waste, more than half of the waste is made up of fishing nets and ropes. Although they cannot be seen on the surface, underwater they become a trap for marine life – often for decades.

Consequences for Ecosystems and People

Losses caused by networks-spectrum is not only a problem for marine fauna and flora. In the United States, on the coasts of the Northwest Pacific, hundreds of dead crabs and birds were extracted from one of the phantom nets drawn from the sea. Ecologists point out that these networks not only contribute to the decline in species, but also generate financial losses in fisheries. Fish and other animals captured in these nets that do not enter the market cause millions of losses to local communities.

Global action to protect the seas

The problem of the Widm network is becoming increasingly visible, and environmental protection organisations such as Global Ghost Gear Initiative (GGGI) are actively working on solutions. They work to remove abandoned nets and promote education among fishermen to reduce the number of accidentally lost tools. However, the global commitment to combating marine and ocean pollution is also crucial, both within local initiatives and in international treaties.

Can our seas be saved?

The oceans, though huge, are sensitive to our actions. The spectrum networks are a silent but destructive element of the ocean pollution crisis. Their removal and proper management of fisheries are steps that can help save marine biodiversity and the future of fisheries. In the end, we decide whether the ocean will be a place of life and health or a wilderness where there will be no place for marine creatures.

Source: WWF

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