On the troubling use of plastic ‘habitat’ structures for fish in freshwater ecosystems – or – when restoration is just littering
Abstract
Introduction
The Issues
Confusing habitat enhancement for fishing with restoration
Substituting natural substrates with plastic can disrupt ecosystems
Invasive species love artificial habitat structures
Plastic is pollution
Cradle-to-grave consequences associated with use of plastics
A weak evidence base to support use of plastics yet entrenchment of ideas
Sending the wrong message to youth and the public
Lost opportunity to focus on the ‘real’ restoration of freshwater ecosystems
Moving forward
Do no harm
Develop a decommissioning plan
Research is needed on plastic substrate breakdown and leaching
Natural materials such as logs and rocks should always be favoured over artificial materials
Do not masquerade the creation of fishing opportunities as restoration or conservation
Consult other waterbody users, rights holders and stakeholders about use of plastic structures
Step up and step in: all hands on deck to restore freshwater ecosystems
Conclusions
Acknowledgements
References
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