A bibliometric review on ghost fishing: Impacts on marine environment and governing measures

Ghost fishing, the phenomenon of abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) that continues to trap and kill marine life, represents a significant environmental and economic threat to marine ecosystems and fisheries worldwide. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of ghost fishing, examining its direct and indirect impacts on the marine environment and exploring the strategies employed to mitigate its effects. A total of 627 records from academic journals, government publications, research articles, and relevant online databases were screened using approved search engines. Following PRISMA guidelines, 87 documents were selected for meta-analysis. The results highlight the wide-ranging consequences of ghost fishing, including biodiversity loss, habitat destruction, economic losses, environmental degradation, and threats to fishery sustainability. Additionally, this paper reviews current efforts to reduce ghost fishing, including the development of sustainable fishing practices and policy interventions. By synthesizing the existing literature, policy documents, and community-based initiatives, this review aims to raise awareness of ghost fishing, enhance understanding of its ecological and economic impacts, and promote conservation efforts aimed at protecting marine ecosystems through more responsible fishing practices.