Volunteer group Fathoms Free has revealed details of a recent ghost net incident which entrapped and killed an adult seal and a juvenile dolphin.

The team received reports of a ghost net which had entrapped and killed an adult seal near Maenporth beach.

Acting on short notice, and despite their boat being out of action for repairs and maintenance, a team was assembled to attend and retrieve the net.

Upon closer inspection, when the net was freed and lifted to the surface, the team discovered other casualties of ghost fishing, a juvenile dolphin, a juvenile dogfish, a dozen mackerel and a couple of other fish species, all in various stages of decomposition.

[H3] What is a ghost net? [.H2]

Ghost nets are fishing nets that have been left or lost in the ocean by fishermen. These nets, often nearly invisible in the dim light, can be left tangled on a rocky reef or drifting in the open sea and in turn can entangle wildlife.

Speaking on the incident, Fathoms Free said:

"Luckily we were able to save and release 2 lobsters, 3 edible crabs and 5 spider crabs. The deceased seal, dolphin and fish were returned to the sea to continue in the food cycle.

"Later we found out that the seal had been spotted and attended by volunteers at Marine Strandings Network and British Divers Marine Life Rescue and it was the information they had collected that eventually allowed us to retrieve the net. This is a great example of how local organisations can work together towards common goals.

"If you ever come across ghost gear in the sea please let us know by using the reporting form on our website.

"Special thanks go out to local diver Ben Dunstan who supported this mission by lending his boat and volunteering to dive. The net will be stripped and passed on to Odyssey Innovation Ltd for recycling."

[H3] What do Fathoms Free do? [.H2]

We are a volunteer group who retrieve ghost gear and marine debris and raise awareness of marine pollution.

We aim to highlight the issue and positively engage with the local community, including the fishing community, so that they inform us of any ghost gear that has been lost or found and needs retrieving.

We avoid pointing the finger or playing the blame game as we recognise that only together we can bring about change.

If you would like to report ghost nets to Fathoms Free, click here.

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