Rope entanglements are sadly common. Fishing vessels rely heavily on ropes, so it’s no surprise that many loose pieces and loops end up in the ocean. Unlike in the past, when ropes were made from natural fibers, modern ropes are mostly plastic because they are cheaper and more durable. This is bad news for marine animals, as plastic ropes can take decades or even centuries to break down. Even natural fiber ropes are problematic, as salty seawater slows down their biodegradation. The only way to