Drifting FADs: Ocean's Hidden Threat to Coral Reefs

Drifting fish aggregating devices (FADs) are posing a serious threat to marine ecosystems worldwide, according to new Canadian research published in Science Advances. These abandoned devices are smashing into coral reefs and endangering wildlife, even infiltrating over 1,500 marine protected areas. This situation highlights a critical need for more sustainable tuna fishing practices.

FADs, often made of wood and plastic, are used to efficiently catch smaller tuna species like skipjack. Although netting was banned in 2025 due to entanglement risks, FADs themselves cause damage when they strand. The study documented over 6,000 FAD strandings in protected areas, with devices shearing off coral chunks and creating plastic pollution.

Marine life, including sharks and turtles, are also at risk from stray FAD debris. These devices eventually become waste, accumulating in areas like French Polynesia and the Seychelles, and obstructing nesting turtles. Local communities often face the burden of costly cleanup efforts.

Solutions are emerging, including sustainability certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council, which incentivize companies to improve practices. The International Seafood Sustainability Foundation has developed a biodegradable 'jelly FAD.' Additionally, limiting the total number of deployed FADs and encouraging their retrieval are recommended, with some fleets already implementing retrieval programs.