We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Tools and constraints in monitoring interactions between marine litter and megafauna: Insights from case studies around the world
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers synthesized case studies from seven global monitoring programs on marine litter interactions with megafauna — including fish, seabirds, sea turtles, and marine mammals — examining both macro-debris entanglement and microplastic ingestion, and discussed the critical need for standardized assessment methods to support international environmental policy.
Adverse impacts of marine litter is documented on >1400 species, including marine megafauna (fish, birds, sea turtles and mammals). The primary impacts include ingestion and entanglement, and there is increasing concern about chemical contamination via ingestion. Numerous survey approaches and monitoring programs have been developed and implemented around the world. They may aim to provide data about parameters such as species distribution and interactions with anthropogenic activities. During the Sixth International Marine Debris Conference, a session was dedicated to the tools and constraints in monitoring interactions between litter and megafauna. In the present paper, we summarize 7 case studies which discuss entanglement and ingestion including macro- and micro-debris in several taxa and across multiple geographic regions. We then discusses the importance of tools and standardizing methods for assessment and management purposes, in the context of international environmental policies and marine litter strategies.
More Papers Like This
Overview of global status of plastic presence in marine vertebrates
AI summary Read the abstract
A review of 112 studies on plastic ingestion by marine vertebrates (sea turtles, cetaceans, fish) found widespread occurrence across species and ocean regions, with methodological inconsistencies preventing reliable global comparisons and underscoring the need for standardized protocols.
Quantifying ingested debris in marine megafauna: a review and recommendations for standardization
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examined published methods for quantifying ingested plastic debris in marine megafauna — including whales, turtles, and sharks — and found wide variation in reporting practices. The authors propose standardized protocols for sample collection, processing, and data reporting to enable meaningful comparisons across species and regions.
Understanding individual and population-level effects of plastic pollution on marine megafauna
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed 50 years of published studies on how plastic pollution affects marine megafauna including seabirds, marine mammals, and sea turtles at both individual and population levels. While numerous individual-level effects were documented, including starvation, injury, and reproductive impairment from entanglement and ingestion, no study provided direct evidence of population-level declines. The study highlights a critical gap in understanding whether the widespread individual harm from plastic pollution is translating into measurable population consequences for these species.
Marine Plastic Monitoring, Assessment, and Policy
AI summary Read the abstract
This review covers the current state of marine plastic monitoring systems, assessment frameworks, and policy instruments globally, examining data collection methods, international agreements, and gaps in enforcement. The authors highlight that inconsistent monitoring protocols and lack of binding global treaty mechanisms remain critical barriers to effective marine plastic governance.
The impact of debris on marine life.
AI summary Read the abstract
A systematic review of 340 publications documented encounters between 693 marine species and debris, with 92% of interactions involving plastic and 17% involving microplastics. The review established marine debris — especially plastic — as a major, widespread threat to marine biodiversity through entanglement, ingestion, and habitat degradation.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.