Julie A. Anderson, Amy B. Alford, Ghost fishing activity in derelict
blue crab traps in Louisiana, Marine Pollution Bulletin, Volume 79,
Issues 1–2, 15 February 2014, Pages 261-267, ISSN 0025-326X,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2013.12.002.
(http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0025326X13007352)
Abstract: Derelict crab traps impact the coastal ecosystem through
continued catch of target species and species of conservation, economic,
or recreational importance. During volunteer-supported crab trap
cleanups in 2012 and 2013, we quantified ghost fishing activity in
derelict crab traps in coastal Louisiana through a citizen scientist
program. Volunteers removed 3607 derelict traps during these events, and
over 65% of traps analyzed by citizen scientists were actively ghost
fishing. Additionally, volunteers identified 19 species enmeshed in
derelict traps, including a combination of fresh and saltwater species.
We also detected a significant difference in the number of blue crab in
actively ghost fishing derelict traps across removal locations with
estimated catches varying between 2.4 and 3.5 crabs/trap. Our
instantaneous estimates of ghost fishing activity are greater than those
previously thought in Louisiana, further justifying current derelict
crab trap prevention and removal extension and outreach programs in
Louisiana and throughout the Gulf of Mexico.
Keywords: Callinectes sapidus; Louisiana blue crab fishery; Derelict
crab traps; Citizen scientists; Ghost fishing; Marine debris