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from a tree or tree branch washed into the ocean (or another large body of water), usually because of strong winds, as in a storm, or due to flooding. The tree dies and the dead wood shelters and feeds fish, birds, and other aquatic species, as it floats in the ocean. Gribbles, shipworms, and bacteria decompose the wood and gradually turn it into nutrients that are reintroduced to the food web. Sometimes, the partially decomposed wood washes ashore and shelters birds, plants, and other species. The driftwood can become part of the foundation of sand dunes.

from remains of wrecked wooden ships and boats.

from unwanted ship's dunnage thrown overboard.

from wooden objects discarded into water from shore.

from lost or jettisoned cargo.

from buildings and their contents washed into the sea by floods, storms and tsunamis.

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