The Hawaiian green sea turtles, also known as honu, are an iconic and endangered species that call the Pacific Ocean their home. These gentle creatures have been the subject of study and conservation efforts for many years, but recent research has revealed a shocking new threat to their survival.
The Rise of Fishing Gear-Related Strandings
From 2010 to 2019, fibropapillomatosis disease was the leading stressor in stranded honu, accounting for 25% of cases, followed by fishing lines (22%), hooks (8%), shark predation (5%), boat strikes (5%), and net entanglements (3%). However, since 2016, fishing gear-related strandings have surged, surpassing fibropapillomatosis as the primary threat to honu in Hawai‘i.
- Monofilament fishing lines, often nearly invisible, accumulate on reefs and in nearshore waters throughout the state, endangering marine life and ecosystems.
- O‘ahu, due to its dense human population and high coastal fishing activity, is a hotspot for hook and line-induced trauma.
- Researchers believe the increase in fishing gear-related strandings is due to the growing honu population and expanded fishing activities, which result in more overlap between sea turtles and coastal fishing.
A Threat of Plastic Pollution
Monofilament fishing lines, often made from nylon, are a major contributor to marine plastic pollution. These lines can entangle sea turtles, causing serious injury or even death. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that these lines often accumulate on reefs and in nearshore waters, posing a significant risk to marine life and ecosystems.
Reducing the Impact of Fishing Gear-Related Strandings
To address this issue, researchers are working together to reduce the impact of fishing gear-related strandings. This includes:
- Conducting advanced spatial modeling techniques to predict areas of high fishing line accumulation.
- Providing decades of stranding data and facilitating collaboration with local response networks.
- Organizing targeted debris clean-ups and response efforts to rescue entangled turtles.
- Analyzing debris composition and promoting public awareness through community engagement.
A New Facility for Sea Turtle Conservation
In response to this growing problem, HPU recently partnered with HMAR to open a sea turtle emergency care and rehabilitation facility on O‘ahu. The facility, HMAR Care Center, began operations in the summer of 2024 at HPU’s Makapu‘u Campus. It provides critical care to O‘ahu turtles found injured by fishing gear and other threats. Supported by a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the center helps rehabilitate sea turtles and offers opportunities for research, education, and internships for HPU students.
“I am concerned about the future of our planet and the impact that human activities have on the environment. As a biologist, it is heartbreaking to see the impact of fishing gear on sea turtles. We need to take action to prevent this problem while also continuing to remove it and rescue the turtles that are harmed by it,” – Jennifer Lynch, Ph.D.
Reducing the Risk of Line Entanglement
To improve survival rates among entangled honu, timely intervention is critical. Many turtles affected by fishing lines are found alive, with survival rates significantly increasing through prompt in-field response. Research indicates that turtles with hook injuries have an 86% survival rate, while those entangled in lines have a 64% survival rate. Line entanglement is one of the most harmful threats turtles face, making conservation measures such as assistance from fishers, public reporting, and rapid response by trained professionals essential for their protection.
How to Help
If you encounter an entangled turtle, NOAA advises immediately calling the NOAA Marine Animal Hotline at 888-256-9840 for guidance. This may include cutting the line close to the hook to prevent further injury. There are also multiple fishing line recycling programs across Hawai‘i, including on Maui, Hawai’i Island, Honolulu, and Kaua‘i. Fishermen are urged to dispose of their gear responsibly and take care not to lose it in the environment.
| Fishing Line Recycling Programs | Location |
|---|---|
| Maui | The Maui County Fish and Wildlife Commission |
| Hawai’i Island | The Hawaii Department of Agriculture |
| Honolulu | The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Parks and Recreation |
| Kaua‘i | The Kaua‘i Island Fish and Wildlife Association |
Conclusion
The hidden threat of entanglement in monofilament fishing gear is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. By working together, we can reduce the impact of fishing gear-related strandings and protect these incredible creatures. It is our responsibility to take action and ensure the survival of the Hawaiian green sea turtles.
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