A new study identifies 27 countries most vulnerable to declining coral reef fisheries, with low-income nations lacking adaptation capacity and middle-income nations sensitive to climate change. The top two countries at risk are Indonesia and Liberia, while Malaysia and Sri Lanka are the least vulnerable.
A VCU study found evidence of fall spawning by Atlantic sturgeon in the James River, a finding that may lead to guidelines and protections for future management and recovery. The research also highlights the need to understand unique ecological traits of the James River population.
A new study reveals that Indonesia's coral reefs in Aceh are benefiting from the 'Panglima Laot' customary system, which has resulted in higher fish biomass and hard-coral cover due to mutually agreed gear restrictions. The system's success lies in its design principles promoting social harmony and sustainable resource management.
A new study projects a 14-20% decline in maximum fish body weight by 2050, with the tropics being most impacted. The research highlights the need to curb greenhouse gas emissions and monitor changes to ocean ecosystems.
A new assessment technique allows researchers to determine fish population status using less data than traditional methods. This enables the recovery of thousands of 'data-poor' fisheries, which could boost seafood supply by 8-40% compared to unsustainable fishing practices.
A new study published in Science magazine provides population assessments for thousands of data-poor fisheries worldwide, revealing that over half are in decline. However, the research highlights hope for recovery: most unassessed fisheries have not yet collapsed and can provide a significant seafood supply boost if managed sustainably.
Researchers have found coral 'hotspots' in deepwater canyons off the northeastern US coast, with a new model helping predict their locations. The discovery is expected to aid fishery management and increase knowledge about deep-sea life in the region.
Sea surface temperatures reached record highs on the Northeast continental shelf in 2012, exceeding 10.5 degrees C, affecting cod distribution and marine life. The annual spring plankton bloom was intense, starting earlier and lasting longer than average, with implications for species spawning at specific times of the year.
A recent study led by the Institute for Ocean Conservation Science provides a first-time analysis of the value of forage fish to both commercial fisheries and marine ecosystems. The research found that forage fish contribute significantly to global fisheries, with a total estimated value of $16.9 billion annually, representing 20% of g...
Researchers found Hematodinium sp. and its sister species are a major problem for crab fisheries, causing 'bitter crab' disease. The parasites have bacteria-like endosymbionts that increase their chances of survival outside the shrimp, leading to significant damage to infected crustaceans.
A new NOAA survey using the Seahorse instrument has confirmed high numbers of young sea scallops off Delaware Bay. The findings are promising for the future of the scallop fishery, with many juveniles showing potential to grow to commercial size in about three years.
The 2012 Marine Climate Change in Australia Report Card reveals climate change is altering the country's marine ecosystems. Key findings indicate warming sea temperatures are influencing species distribution and foraging patterns of seabirds.
A NOAA-led study reveals that high levels of background noise from ships have reduced the ability of critically endangered North Atlantic right whales to communicate with each other by about two-thirds. The study found that right whales now find themselves living in a world full of acoustic smog, making it difficult for them to gather ...
A team of researchers, including UBC scientists, assessed global ocean health and created the Ocean Health Index, scoring countries from 36 to 86. Canada and the US performed well with scores of 70 and 63 respectively.
A study by the University of Southampton found that beaver dams can have both negative and positive effects on fish populations. While beaver activities can temporarily impede fish movement and reduce spawning habitat, they also increase habitat diversity and abundance of invertebrates, benefiting fish.
The seafood industry frequently employs a combination of fishing and aquaculture techniques, making traditional categories insufficient for accounting for its growth potential and environmental impacts. Hybrid classification schemes can help improve the accuracy of data on seafood production and enhance sustainable supply management.
Red swamp crayfish, an invasive species introduced to enhance fisheries in East Africa, has been found to adapt and survive on terrestrial plants when water levels are low. This discovery highlights the species' incredible resilience and potential for further ecological damage.
A Michigan State University study reveals that people's attitudes towards tigers are influenced by benefits and pragmatic costs of having tigers nearby, suggesting a combination of psychological responses drives tolerance. The research provides critical information on how to protect species by understanding human-neighbour relationships.
A new study by UCSB researchers refines the tool kit for sustainable fisheries, finding that a mix of spatial management approaches can substantially increase fishery profits. Strategically placed MPAs and nuanced zoning systems can also boost profits, but careful placement is crucial.
Biologists present a simple way to estimate maximum sustainable yield (MSY) using catch data and species resilience. The new method has been tested on 148 fish stocks with excellent agreement compared to traditional methods.
A new UBC study suggests that reducing the global fishing fleet, eliminating harmful subsidies, and implementing effective management systems could make global fisheries worth $54 billion annually. The study's authors estimate a potential return on investment of three- to seven-fold over 50 years.
The Global Alliance of Continuous Plankton Recorder Surveys has been formed to standardize methods and share data on plankton biodiversity globally. The initiative aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on ocean basin scales, crucial for understanding climate change impacts.
A study led by University of British Columbia researchers found that the EU pays less than it did two decades ago while catching more fish in Madagascar's waters. The total annual income for Madagascar decreased by almost 90% between 1986 and 2010 due to unfair access fees.
A recent study by NOAA researchers reveals a drastic decline in white abalone populations, which have dwindled by approximately 78% over the last ten years. The species' ability to reproduce is being questioned, with scientists suggesting that a captive breeding program may be necessary to enhance populations and prevent extinction.
Climate models show that warmer beach conditions and increased frequency of hot years will lead to high egg and hatchling mortality rates among leatherback sea turtles. The eastern Pacific population is projected to decline by 75% by 2100, making conservation efforts crucial for their recovery.
Three SFU scientists, engaged in collaborative research on conservation and ecology, critique the federal government's proposal to reduce fish habitat protection. They argue that current policies suffice for protecting fish habitat, contrary to assertions from the federal fisheries minister.
Depleting groundwater can reduce surface-water flows, harming fisheries and wetland habitats. Creative groundwater management solutions are being adopted by western states and Australia to minimize economic disruption during droughts.
A study found that marine reserves on Australia's Great Barrier Reef produce approximately half of all juvenile recruitment to both reserve and fished reefs. The reserves, which account for just 28% of the local reef area, help sustain valuable fisheries.
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst used miniaturized satellite tags to track young Atlantic bluefin tuna, revealing their dispersal patterns and habitat use. The study provides the first fishery-independent data on bluefin tuna migration and behavior, shedding light on the ecology and management of wild stocks.
The new system identifies fish populations to a forensic level of validation, helping tackle overfishing and illegal fishing. DNA-based tools can be used across the food supply chain and provide an independent method for authenticity testing.
Research reveals that salmon raised in hatcheries can harm wild populations through competition for food and habitat. This has significant implications for long-term survival of wild salmon species, highlighting the need for caution and further research to ensure sustainable fisheries management.
Scientists have discovered a biological marker in marine animals that indicates low-level exposure to domoic acid, a potentially toxic substance produced by certain algae. This finding has the potential to create reliable blood tests for assessing the effects of chronic exposure on humans and wildlife.
Researchers suggest increased predation by grey seals may be responsible for Atlantic cod's delayed recovery on the eastern Scotian Shelf. Further investigation is needed to identify underlying factors affecting high adult death rates.
A new study estimates that reef shark numbers have dropped substantially around populated islands, with numbers declining by more than 90% compared to untouched reefs. The research uses towed-diver surveys to compare shark populations at reefs spanning from heavily impacted ones to pristine areas.
Researchers detected eight high-trophic level marine fish in commercial aquaculture feed, including Peruvian anchoveta and Pacific cod. The study suggests that aquaculture contributes to overfishing by feeding farm fish with wild species.
A task force report strongly recommends implementing conservative catch limits for 'forage fish' like sardines and anchovies. These small species are crucial prey for larger species, including salmon, cod, tuna, dolphins, whales, penguins, and seabirds.
A study reconstructing fisheries yields over seven centuries in Hawaii and Florida Keys reveals that Native Hawaiian societies managed fisheries sustainably through local regulations and community involvement. The authors argue that incorporating ancient techniques into modern policy may be key to sustaining coral reef fisheries.
A recent study led by a US scientist estimates that human impacts on the ocean could cost the global economy over $1 trillion per year by 2100. The research highlights the urgent need to reduce pollution, overfishing, and other threats to ocean health.
The team will examine harvests of healthy stocks before and after the catch shares program, assessing whether fishermen are closer to harvesting their full strong-stock quotas. They will also study the impact of risk pools and computer models on cooperation and conservation in fisheries management.
A study of 42 co-managed coral reef fisheries found that partnerships between government, conservation groups, and local fishers were successful in meeting the livelihood needs of local communities and protecting fish stocks. The research identified conditions for co-management success, providing vital guidance for conservation groups,...
A study by the Wildlife Conservation Society finds that co-management is a successful solution to global overfishing, with more than half of surveyed fishermen feeling it improved their livelihoods. The approach has also been shown to protect fish stocks and improve ecosystem health.
A scientific team reports that a 'balanced harvest' can achieve productive fisheries while conserving environmental factors, according to the journal Science paper. This approach maximizes production and minimizes ecological effects by targeting multiple species and sizes.
The Pew Fellowship in Marine Conservation supports projects promoting green infrastructure, marine protected areas, and sustainable fisheries management. Six new recipients will work on climate adaptation strategies, goliath grouper conservation, and analysis of French fisheries subsidies.
Despite harsh winter conditions, microscopic creatures in the Arctic food chain remain active, with zooplankton feeding at low rates. This discovery has implications for climate modeling and understanding of ecological balance, particularly in commercial fisheries.
The Eco2 Index ranks countries based on their financial deficits, national debt, and resource consumption. Many high-income countries, including Japan and the US, perform poorly due to high ecological deficits, while South America and parts of Africa score well in terms of financial security.
The UBC research reveals areas with the highest risk of overfishing, including the northeastern coast of Canada, Pacific coast of Mexico, and Peruvian coast. This index will help conservation managers make targeted decisions to protect seafood and marine ecosystems.
Research by UBC scientists finds that adding ocean acidification and deoxygenation to climate change projections can significantly reduce fish catch potential in certain regions. For example, the Norwegian Sea may see a 15% decrease in fisheries catch potential due to combined effects of warming and acidification.
The Nereus model provides a global view of life in the world's oceans, predicting a decline in large fish biomass and an increase in small fish populations. The model also shows the impact of human activities, climate change, and fisheries management on ocean life.
A new study published in Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences estimates the economic impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on commercial and recreational fisheries and mariculture in the Gulf of Mexico. The study predicts losses of $US8.7 billion over 7 years, affecting around 22,000 jobs.
Researchers found that fishermen in wealthier countries are less likely to give up their trade due to subsidies and job satisfaction. In contrast, those in poorer countries with diversified livelihoods are more willing to leave the fishery. The study highlights the complexity of decision making and factors influencing willingness to ad...
Researchers used satellite imagery from Google Earth to count fish farming cages in the Mediterranean, estimating a total of 225,736 tonnes of finfish production. The study suggests that both Greece and Turkey underreport their farmed fish production, but overall, Mediterranean countries are giving accurate counts.
Researchers develop a mathematical methodology to predict critical transitions in complex systems like fisheries and economies. The approach utilizes traditional intuition and understanding, reducing the need for large amounts of data, to enhance chances of 'seeing it coming'.
A study published in PNAS found that Pacific herring embryos in shallow waters died at high rates after the 2007 Cosco Busan oil spill, highlighting an interaction between sunlight and chemicals in oil. The findings suggest oil threats in sunlit habitats, particularly for translucent animals like herring embryos.
A new study shows that expanding 'ocean dead zones' driven by climate change is shrinking the useable habitat for blue marlin and other pelagic fish in the tropical northeast Atlantic Ocean. This compression of habitat due to low oxygen levels threatens the sustainability of these fisheries.
Expanding ocean dead zones driven by climate change reduce oxygen levels, forcing blue marlins and other billfish to surface waters where they are more vulnerable to fishing. This shift affects the long-term health of these species and their ecosystems.
A new model combining biological data and fisheries catch records indicates that fishing in one side of the Atlantic Ocean affects the other. The study shows that eastern bluefin populations are declining due to high levels of fishing in the Mediterranean Sea, while western populations are also depleted. The model suggests that recover...
Fishing practices have led to a 90-per-cent decrease in top predators in North Atlantic and Pacific waters since the 1950s. The impacts are now being felt globally, with southern hemisphere predators facing a similar decline. This study highlights the need for strict management and enforcement to prevent further biodiversity loss.
A new model developed by European Commission scientists allows for the first time an overall view of bluefin tuna habitats in the Mediterranean Sea. The model uses satellite remote sensing data to identify preferred habitats and track changes over time, providing valuable insights for sustainable fisheries management.
A new UBC study reveals how climate change can impact the economic viability of current fisheries practices, with many regions expecting losses in revenues. The study highlights the need for governments and policymakers to take action to mitigate the effects of climate change on fisheries.
Atlantic salmon in the Gulf of Maine face mortality risks from a changing climate, including warmer ocean temperatures and increased predator populations. The study suggests that post-smolts are more likely to survive if they avoid areas with high predator densities.