Artificial Bait for Tuna: A Comprehensive Review of Materials, Costs, and Effectiveness

The declining availability of natural bait, such as small fish and squid, due to overfishing and ecosystem changes has driven the development of artificial bait as a sustainable alternative in tuna fisheries. This review examines advancements in artificial bait design, focusing on key aspects such as effectiveness, durability, and environmental sustainability. Materials like composite resin and aluminum have emerged as promising options due to their ability to replicate natural prey movements, enhance durability, and resist marine conditions. While plastic-based bait offers cost advantages, its environmental impact and lower durability remain concerns. The integration of biodegradable materials and fluorescent coatings further enhances bait visibility and minimizes ecological footprints. By innovating bait size, shape, and material selection, artificial bait can effectively reduce reliance on natural stocks while promoting sustainable fishing practices. However, further research is needed to refine hydrodynamic properties and assess longterm ecosystem impacts in diverse fisheries contexts.