Fish populations that gather and spawn in large groups face growing threats from overexploitation and inadequate management. Insufficient regulation allows a few active boats to deplete these vulnerable populations, while changing economic conditions may lead to rapid species declines.
Scientists have identified a new potential spawning ground for Atlantic bluefin tuna in the Slope Sea off the northeastern US coast. This finding challenges the long-held assumption of a single Gulf of Mexico spawning area, suggesting that western Atlantic bluefin may be less vulnerable to fishing and stressors.
A decade-long decline in high-calorie fish prey, such as sardines and anchovies, has led to a decrease in the weight of California sea lion pups. This is because nursing females struggle to support their pups' nutritional needs with lower-calorie alternatives like market squid.
A multi-disciplinary team from James Cook University has developed a roadmap for sustainable fishing tourism in Papua New Guinea. The project aims to benefit local communities while promoting conservation of the Papuan Black Bass, one of the world's toughest sportfish.
Jacquet aims to identify expected winners and losers of closing the high seas to fishing and explore feasibility of changing fisheries policies. Her research focuses on large-scale cooperation dilemmas like climate change and wildlife exploitation.
A new study from the University of Southampton found that inland freshwater fisheries with higher biodiversity have higher-yielding and more stable fisheries. The research suggests that maintaining healthy freshwater systems is critical for food security and livelihoods, particularly in developing countries.
Researchers found consistent patterns in species distribution shifts within assemblages, influenced by temperature and depth. Climate change impacts vary between regions, affecting predator-prey interactions and fisheries management.
A James Cook University study found that turtles are left vulnerable due to gaps in reporting of bycatch, a common cause of sea turtle deaths. The researchers recommend pooling bycatch records across fisheries and states over time to better measure the impact on turtle populations.
A study found that catch shares management reduced risky behavior in fishing by 79% during stormy weather. This shift in behavior corresponds to a 87% reduction in safety incidents and is expected to lead to fewer injuries, vessel losses, and deaths.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that coral reef islands and atolls create 'biological hotspots' in the Pacific Ocean due to increased phytoplankton biomass, supporting enhanced food-webs and local fisheries. The Island Mass Effect drives ecosystem productivity and has significant implications for resource management.
A new review highlights the importance of inland fish and fisheries, which contribute to at least 40% of the world's reported fish production. Inland fisheries provide essential livelihoods for millions of people, particularly in low-income countries, while also supporting biodiversity and recreation.
Most US marine fish and invertebrate species are vulnerable to climate change, with some more resilient than others. The study ranks species based on their vulnerability, predicting widespread distribution shifts and potential impacts on abundance and productivity.
Research reveals improved fish numbers, survival, and reproduction in rivers with restored habitats through intensively monitored watersheds (IMWs). Studies show significant increases in juvenile fish populations and survival rates, demonstrating the effectiveness of IMWs in assessing restoration impacts.
The 2016 Environmental Performance Index reveals both optimism and concern as nations expand access to water and sanitation while failing to reverse air quality degradation and fisheries decline. Concerted efforts have reduced deaths from waterborne diseases, but 8% of the world's population lacks clean water access.
A new study finds that climate change could lead to declines in herring and salmon catches, affecting the livelihoods of indigenous communities along British Columbia's coast. By 2050, First Nations may experience catch losses between $6.7 million to $12 million annually.
A new study by Dartmouth researchers reveals that the type of fishing gear used has a significant impact on the amount of fish caught, as well as the social dynamics between fishermen. The study found that fishermen who use compressor divers tend to catch more fish and have less cohesion within their communities.
A new study highlights the true costs of hydroelectric dams in tropical regions, including significant impacts on biodiversity and fisheries. Researchers warn that dam site selection is crucial for conserving biodiversity, but many countries lack protocols to ensure careful planning.
Researchers developed two monitoring indicators for hunting levels of rainforest mammals and birds, adapting fisheries monitoring methods. The study found that hunters may be shifting to smaller species over time and increasing pressure on bird and mammal populations.
A new study published in PLOS ONE reveals that vessel speed is the most influential factor in how much noise from boats reaches endangered killer whales. The research used digital acoustic recording tags and laser positioning system to track boat noise levels and found that speed was the main contributor.
A new study reveals that warming waters in the Gulf of Maine are a major factor in the collapse of New England cod stocks, hovering at 3-4% of sustainable levels. The research suggests that increased water temperatures reduce the number of new cod produced and lead to fewer young fish surviving to adulthood.
A new report by the National Science Foundation links rapid warming of ocean waters to the collapse of New England's cod fishery. The study found that increasing water temperatures reduced cod production and increased mortality of young fish, leading to a decline in sustainable stock levels.
A new study by AAAS finds that warming waters in the Gulf of Maine have contributed to the decline of New England cod stocks, despite strict quotas. The researchers used sea surface temperature data to show how ocean warming reduced cod production and led to overfishing.
A study on the Belizean Barrier Reef found that fish larvae typically disperse no more than 1.7 kilometers from their parents, highlighting the need for connected marine reserves to conserve biodiversity and sustain fisheries.
Scientists have found a strong correlation between the concentration of toxic algae Pseudo-nitzschia and the number of young right whale deaths at Peninsula Valdes. The study suggests that the algae's potent neurotoxin domoic acid may be causing non-lethal effects that affect survival.
A new study documents the fatal connection between urban stormwater and coho salmon survival, but also finds that inexpensive filtration through columns of sand and soil can completely prevent toxic effects. The research demonstrates that coho salmon are an ecological sentinel for urban runoff's harmful effects.
Researchers found that blue whales feed infrequently when krill are sparse and intensively when density increases, consuming more energy from the densest patches. This lunge-feeding strategy allows them to maximize energy gain while conserving oxygen, supporting their massive body size.
A new study found that climate change is altering the distributions of young and adult fish in the Northeast U.S. Larval stages of 43% of species shifted distribution, while adult stages of 50% also changed, often moving northwards or along the shelf. These changes have significant implications for fisheries management.
The John H. Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue Assistance Grant Program provides funding to organizations responding to stranded marine mammals and collecting health data. Funding supports rehabilitation and conservation efforts for marine mammal populations in the wild.
New research reveals that the Mary Rose's cod provisions were sourced from distant waters, including the northern North Sea and Icelandic fisheries. The findings suggest a globalized fish trade played a significant role in the growth of the English navy during the Tudor period.
Research shows low-level oil exposure leads to later heart defects, weaker swimming, and reduced survival in Alaskan fish populations. Subtle changes in heart formation have delayed but important consequences for first-year survival, determining the long-term abundance of wild fish populations.
Scientists analyzed UK fisheries survey logbooks from the 1930s to 1950s, finding that cod diet and populations were affected by environmental conditions. The study contributes to understanding climate change and variability, providing insights into fish stocks and the environment over the past century.
A study by Penn State researchers found that climate change will reduce the availability of cold water habitats for wild brook trout, leading to fewer angling opportunities. The study projected a significant increase in driving distances for trout fishermen due to warming waters.
Scientists from NOAA Fisheries and the Vancouver Aquarium used a hexacopter UAV to take straight-down photos of Northern resident killer whales, a threatened population in British Columbia. The aerial images allow for precise measurements of body condition, feeding habits, and growth patterns.
A new study warns that global warming could force fish to migrate 65% faster, impacting biodiversity and ecosystem functions. The research highlights the need for reducing emissions to mitigate these effects and protect marine ecosystems.
The global seafood supply will be substantially altered by climate change, overfishing, and ocean acidification, leading to a decline in fisheries and marine biodiversity. Researchers recommend improving ocean governance and limiting carbon dioxide emissions to mitigate these effects.
Scientists expect this year's Gulf of Mexico hypoxic zone to be approximately 5,483 square miles, similar to the last several years. The dead zone affects important commercial and recreational fisheries, threatening the region's economy.
A study of Elkhorn Slough and Monterey Bay found that nutrient runoff from land use leads to low oxygen levels, affecting fish populations and commercial fisheries. The research suggests improvements in land management could benefit estuaries and fisheries.
The study highlights seven potential benefits of pairing territorial use rights in fisheries (TURFs) and marine reserves, including increased fish abundance, reduced IUU fishing, and improved conservation. TURFs grant exclusive access to designated areas, promoting local ownership and conservation measures.
Scientists identify key research needs to ensure healthy populations of these prized game fish, including habitat conservation and genetic analysis. A holistic approach is needed to manage the impact of humans on fish populations.
A recent study examines the resurgence of major predators on the US West Coast and in Yellowstone, revealing rising conflicts with humans and other species. The researchers suggest multi-species approaches to address these tensions and develop more effective management strategies.
Researchers found that populations of largemouth bass taken from recreational fisheries had significantly lower resting metabolic rates than those from unexploited reference populations. This suggests that recreational fishing may favor fish with lower metabolic rates, which tend to be more aggressive and easier to catch.
Researchers developed a model to assess how dams affect sea-run fish populations, finding that abundance and distribution increased when mainstem dams were removed or passage efficiency improved. The model can predict ecological responses of fish populations and evaluate management actions for fish migrating between fresh and saltwater.
The opah's unique design allows its entire body to maintain an elevated temperature through counter-current heat exchange in its gills. This adaptation enables the fish to swim faster, react more quickly, and see better, making it a high-performance predator in cold waters.
A new computer model developed by NOAA and research institutions will help inform scallop management decisions. The integrated assessment model evaluates the impacts of ocean acidification on Atlantic sea scallops, predicting potential declines in harvest levels and landings over the next several decades.
Declines in Pacific herring and surf smelt have been observed in the most densely populated areas of Puget Sound, while jellyfish blooms have increased, diverting energy away from highly productive forage species. This shift may affect larger fish, birds, and marine mammals, highlighting the need for habitat protection and restoration.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that ocean fronts increase total ecosystem biomass and fisheries production. By incorporating front dynamics into current climate models, researchers found that these regions can aggregate food and resources, leading to higher productivity in the ocean.
The U.S. Northeast Passive Acoustic Sensing Network (NEPAN) uses buoys and autonomous underwater vehicles to record and archive sounds from marine mammals and fish in the western North Atlantic. The data will inform NOAA Fisheries stock assessment reports, permit consultations, and specific management actions.
A study combines ecology and human needs to map regional strengths and weaknesses in Baja fisheries. The research reveals that each region has unique characteristics, requiring tailored policies to achieve sustainability without undermining its strengths.
Research by NOAA Fisheries found that dolphins consume 80% more oxygen when whistling at higher vocal energy levels, suggesting a biological cost of communication in loud environments. This study supports concerns about vessel traffic and noise impacting marine mammals like Southern Resident Killer Whales.
Research predicts that warming seas will constrain fish habitats, leading to reduced abundance of commercial species. The study used a model combining fisheries datasets and climate projections to predict future distributions of UK favourite fish.
A new study reveals that fishing likely contributes to population collapses in forage fish, including herring, anchovies, and sardines. The research suggests that suspension of fishing when populations fall below half their average can prevent 64% of collapses with minimal impact on fisheries.
Recreational anglers' understanding of rockfish biology and fishing practices influences their views on conservation. Education plays a crucial role in garnering long-term support for rockfish recovery.
The EU's new Common Fisheries Policy aims to reduce waste and improve fish stocks, but a University of Strathclyde study suggests it may be difficult for the industry to comply. The study found that while overall catches have decreased, the proportion of catch discarded has increased due to an increase in small fish being caught.
Low-oxygen zones off the Oregon Coast are affecting fish populations, with some species like Dover sole remaining largely unaffected. The study found that low oxygen levels drive sensitive species away, while others may be pushed into less desirable habitats and grow more slowly.
A team of Brazilian scientists calls for urgent public and private collaboration on fisheries management to protect the nation's aquatic fauna. The scientists emphasize the importance of annual research-based updates to lists of threatened species and a permanent stock evaluation system to reduce extinction risk.
Researchers identified over 100 biologically important areas (BIAs) in U.S. waters to inform conservation and management decisions for whales, dolphins, and porpoises. BIAs cover 24 species, stocks, or populations in seven regions and include reproductive, feeding, migratory, and population-concentrated areas.
A study published in Journal of Applied Ecology found that fully protected 'no-take zones' would have greater benefits for wildlife and fisheries than limited-take zones. Researchers propose a compromise between no-take and limited-take zones to balance ecological and economic objectives.
A new forecasting method, empirical dynamic modeling (EDM), has improved predictions for Fraser River sockeye salmon in British Columbia. The EDM technique uses archives of field data to drive predictions, outperforming traditional management forecast tools with a smaller error margin.
Researchers from Purdue University and collaborators found that offspring survival in Lake Michigan is on the rise despite smaller parent size, with potential benefits for juvenile smelt. The study suggests that fewer adults may be allowing hatchlings to thrive due to reduced predation pressure.
A Scottish community-led marine reserve has shown benefits for both fisheries and conservation, with juvenile scallops thriving in a protected area. The reserve has boosted the size and reproductive capacity of adult scallops, potentially seeding surrounding fishing grounds.