Interaction between seabirds and recreational fisheries: a new transdisciplinary conservation program for the responsible disposal of fishing debris in Argentina

GARCÍA GERMÁN OSCAR; ZUMPANO FRANCISCO; FAVERO MARCO; GOROSTEGUI VALENTI ARIADNA; CASTANO MELINA; PON, JUAN PABLO SECO; HERNÁNDEZ MAXIMILIANO; CABRAL VICTORIA

Hosbart, Tasmania

Conferencia; 3rd World Seabird Conference; 2021

Environmental impacts of marine or coastal debris are evident at the global scale. There is ample evidence indicating severe impacts of debris resulting from fishing operations in coastal economies, as well as marine megafauna, including seabirds through entanglement with and ingestion of debris. The later became evident in the northern coasts of Argentina, particularly affected by poorly planned urbanization and the consequent habitat degradation affecting wildlife. Further, recent literature has shown detrimental effects of fishery debris on seabirds, resulting in severe injuries and mortality in a range of species. Our interdisciplinary project seeks to improve the health of coastal areas in northern Argentina, focusing in Mar Chiquita coastal lagoon, an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area subject to an intensive use as recreational resort. We implemented a research and conservation program focused in understanding the nature and characteristics of stranded debris in coastal areas, and contributing towards its reduction through the implementation of an outreach and awareness transdisciplinary programme. We surveyed the perceptions of fishers and fishing operators on their recreational activity and the potential effect of the by-products generated by this activity on the environment. Using the information obtained and with all stakeholders involved, a trial was conducted installing debris collectors in key areas of the estuary, accompanied by outreach posters and brochures. These collectors were monitored on a weekly basis during six months. A total of 200 kg of fishing-related debris (e.g. monofilament lines holding some 250 hooks, plastic containers with bait remains) and another 100 kilograms of debris related to recreational activities were classified and quantified. Currently, we are on the second stage of the project, monitoring the collectors and the behavior in this recreational activity, confident that this transdisciplinary approach to conservation is the one needed to drive significant changes in the way humans use coastal areas.