Seafloor litter in oceanic islands of the southeastern Pacific Ocean have rarely been described and quantified, mainly due to the associated logistical challenges. In this study, we describe and quantify the different kinds of litter from 60 to 320 m depths in Rapa Nui (RN) and Desventuradas Islands (DI), and evaluated the relationship of this litter with the local population in terms of demographic density and fishing activity. The study compiled data from 84 stations surveyed with a ROV representing a total distance of 22 km. Litter was grouped into six categories. 96 observations of litter and debris were taken around RN, most of which associated with local artisanal fishing activity, especially fishing anchors (56%). No tourism-associated debris were reported. Any kind of seafloor litter was observed at DI. The present study provides baseline information for the local community to improve management by understanding the potential sources of seafloor litter.

东南太平洋海洋岛屿的海底垃圾很少被描述和量化，主要是由于相关的后勤挑战。在这项研究中，我们描述和量化了 Rapa Nui (RN) 和 Desventuradas Islands (DI) 60 到 320 m 深度的不同种类的垃圾，并评估了这些垃圾与当地人口在人口密度和捕鱼方面的关系活动。该研究汇编了来自用 ROV 调查的 84 个站点的数据，总距离为 22 公里。垃圾分为六类。在 RN 周围对垃圾和碎片进行了 96 次观察，其中大部分与当地的手工捕鱼活动有关，尤其是钓鱼锚 (56%)。没有报告与旅游相关的碎片。在 DI 观察到任何种类的海底垃圾。