Articles tagged with Fisheries Management
The University of New Hampshire will lead a national effort to grow and strengthen America's seafood supply through aquaculture research, with a focus on sustainability and environmental friendliness. The $13.5 million initiative aims to expand domestic seafood production and improve food security.
Thawing permafrost is causing Arctic rivers to turn toxic with orange iron particles, suffocating insects and smothering fish. The process also involves acid rock drainage, where pyrite breaks down into sulfuric acid and sulfate, creating rust-like particles.
Neanderthals collected shellfish throughout the year, but preferred colder months, demonstrating a well-planned strategy. This finding suggests Neanderthals had access to high-quality marine proteins essential for brain development and reproductive health.
A global inventory reveals that bottom trawling catches over 3,000 fish species, including critically endangered and vulnerable species, highlighting the urgent need for better documentation and management of its impacts on marine biodiversity.
Researchers analyzed 20 years of fishery survey data to understand how environmental change affects marine ecosystems. The study found a decline in biodiversity, with biomass concentrated in fewer species, mirroring Maine's coastal economy.
A study from the University of California, Davis, reveals that managed wetlands in Suisun Marsh produce 11-22 times more zooplankton than tidal habitats. Zooplankton are crucial for fish diets and increase in response to controlled floods.
Hundreds of migratory fish species are facing accelerating declines due to dam construction, habitat fragmentation, pollution, overfishing, and climate-driven ecosystem changes. The Global Assessment of Migratory Freshwater Fishes identifies 325 species needing coordinated international conservation efforts.
Researchers found juvenile smalltooth sawfish showing strong site fidelity to the South Fork of the Saint Lucie River, spending up to 87% of their time within a 0.4 square kilometer area. This suggests that the Indian River Lagoon is once again functioning as a nursery for this endangered species.
A 37-year study by the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center found that cannibalism is the primary killer of juvenile blue crabs in mid-salinity waters. However, young crabs can escape predation by migrating to shallow waters, where they are safer from adult crabs and other predators.
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) has developed a scalable aquaculture platform that automates early-life stages, minimizing pathogen exposure and animal stress. The system uses light and flow-guided systems to improve survival rates and reduce labor input.
A USF study reveals gag grouper populations in the Gulf are overfished, with shortened seasons to aid recovery. The research team developed a statistical model to improve harvest predictions and provide explicit estimates of quota exceedance.
A new study suggests that releasing pollack closer to their natural catch depths can significantly improve their chances of survival. The research found that releasing fish at these depths can increase survival rates from 56% to over 80%. This could have a positive impact on the long-term sustainability of recreational pollack fisheries.
A new Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution study suggests that large-scale deep-sea fishing could undermine valuable tuna fisheries by reducing the food available to bigeye tuna. The research highlights the importance of ecosystem-based management and considering cross-fishery trade-offs before expanding new fisheries.
Governance arrangements in small-scale fisheries have been shown to impact sustainability. Research led by Mateja Nenadović found that each governance model, whether cooperative or patron-based, is better suited to specific environmental conditions. These findings provide initial building blocks for a theory of governance fit, essentia...
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed a patent-pending shark deterrent that can be used to reduce bycatch in fisheries. The device produces an electric field that repels sharks from bait without affecting target fish, and has been shown to reduce catches of coastal sharks by 62-70%.
Research led by University of Miami researchers shows that effective fisheries management can coexist with predator recovery, contradicting previous assumptions. The study found that fishing effort, not predator recovery, drives fishery yields in the North Sea.
Rebuilding coral reef fisheries can help fight global hunger and improve nutrition by increasing sustainable fish yields by nearly 50%. Countries with higher malnutrition indexes can benefit most from recovered reef fish stocks, which could provide enough servings for several million people annually.
A £1.4 million funding has been secured by the University of Stirling to explore tissue remodelling processes in salmon, with a focus on reducing mortality linked to gill and skin health issues. The research will deliver practical tools for fish health and productivity while enhancing sustainability in the Scottish aquaculture industry.
An analysis published in Environmental Research Letters found that Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs) are underperforming and failing to meet their conservation goals. The study graded 16 RFMOs in 10 categories, with an average score of 46 out of 100, indicating a significant gap between performance and mandates.
Researchers at UMass Amherst found that reducing air exposure, fight times, water temperatures, and increasing angler education are crucial for a sustainable fishery. The team's study revealed that longer fights and higher water temps increase recovery time and stress on striped bass.
A new study finds that floating solar panel systems can have varying effects on aquatic ecosystems depending on the reservoir's depth, circulation dynamics, and fish species. The cooling effect of the water can boost panel efficiency, but increased variability in habitat suitability for aquatic species is also observed.
An international research team proposed a new sustainable management concept for krill stocks in the Southern Ocean, integrating fishing activities with closely-meshed scientific monitoring. This approach aims to ensure the long-term protection of the ecosystem and align commercial interests with conservation goals.
The FAU Queen Conch Lab has developed mobile lab hatcheries to restore threatened Caribbean queen conch populations and promote sustainable seafood production. These self-contained units bring advanced aquaculture capabilities to coastal communities, supporting education, employment, and food security.
A study combining DNA barcoding and production/trade data identifies global freshwater eel consumption patterns, revealing over 99% of global consumption consists of three threatened species. East Asia emerges as the global center for eel consumption driven by cultural preferences and purchasing power.
Researchers developed solar-powered lights to reduce sea turtle entanglement in fishing nets. The LED lights are highly effective, with 63% lower bycatch rates compared to unlit control nets.
The study reveals that over 99% of global eel consumption consists of three threatened species, with the American eel being the most consumed. East Asia emerges as the global centre of eel consumption due to cultural preferences and purchasing power.
Researchers find that farmed totoaba could alleviate poaching pressures by establishing a regulated trade. The study suggests that a market-based solution may be more effective than a regulatory approach in curbing poaching. A $6 million subsidy program could make farming cheaper and prevent further decline of the wild population.
Researchers from North Carolina State University found that juvenile blue crab populations remained stable in Pamlico Sound during both pre- and post-fishery decline periods, challenging the theory of recruitment overfishing. The study suggests a potential population bottleneck for crabs post-nursery but pre-maturity.
A new study reveals that dried fish is an overlooked yet vital source of nutrition for millions of people across Africa, particularly for young children and women. The research found that even small portions of dried fish contribute significantly to recommended nutrient intakes for essential minerals like iron and zinc.
Researchers found that commercial fisheries benefit from natural fluctuations in the ecosystem, but these benefits are mediated by management and human behavior. Diversifying catches across species can provide stability and protect watermen from boom-and-bust cycles.
Research reveals community management effectively protects vast areas of Amazonian forest, safeguarding biodiversity and supporting local communities. Community-led conservation efforts are crucial for long-term sustainability, but require recognition and financial support.
Steve Canty has been appointed as the new director of the Smithsonian's Marine Global Earth Observatory (MarineGEO) network. As part of this role, he aims to expand how MarineGEO collaborates with communities to co-develop solutions for protecting and restoring coastal environments globally.
A global review highlights the need for better tools to understand juvenile fish habitats, which are facing increased pressure from various factors. The study recommends incorporating metrics like growth, survival, and contribution rates to assess habitat quality.
The Leopoldina webinar discusses the conditions and practical recommendations for sustainable freshwater aquaculture in Germany and Brazil. The report highlights the potential of this method to contribute significantly to global food security, reduce water and land consumption, and promote a circular economy.
A study analyzing data from 2002 to 2022 found a 50% decline in economic gains from fishing due to the introduction of exotic species. The size of native fish decreased, while invasive species increased in body size and abundance.
SmartCatch, an AI tool developed by WorldFish, has won the AI for Planet Prize at the 2025 AI for Good Global Summit. The tool helps small-scale fishers record their catches with a simple mobile phone photo, aiming to make catch reporting faster and more accurate in coastal areas with limited internet connectivity.
A new study published in PLOS One suggests that a parasitic worm can serve as a valuable biomarker for managing blue crab populations in the Chesapeake Bay. The worms, which infest and live on the egg clutches of female blue crabs, have been found to have a wide salinity tolerance and can survive at lower salinities than previously tho...
Researchers will study how ocean currents and nutrients from land influence the health and productivity of MCEs, which support diverse marine life and important fisheries. The project aims to fill critical knowledge gaps and provide science-based solutions for environmental protection and sustainable growth in the gulf region.
A new study found that domesticated carp have lower chronic stress levels than their wild counterparts, despite regular angling capture. The researchers compared scale cortisol data from domesticated and wild carp and found that the former had significantly lower levels of chronic stress.
A new executive order aims to deregulate the US seafood sector, but experts argue it will weaken scientific authority and environmental protections. The policy threatens the sustainability of wild fisheries and aquaculture development, which is crucial for food security.
The Queen Conch Lab at FAU Harbor Branch will establish a community-based queen conch farm in every Caribbean country to restore healthy populations and improve sustainable fishing methods. The project aims to grow up to 2,000 queen conch juveniles per year for conservation and restoration.
A study analyzing online seizure records found over 300 seizures of dried seahorses in 62 countries, with most occurring in transit or destination countries. The illicit trade is estimated to be worth CAD$29 million over 10 years, and emerging routes involve Europe and Latin America.
Researchers at GEOMAR identify that EU fisheries management's reliance on national interests and ICES advice leads to overfishing, resulting in the collapse of many fish stocks. A new approach is proposed to set quotas independently of national interests and prioritize sustainable catches.
A new study reveals how proactive salmon conservation in the North Pacific can protect biodiversity and advance global conservation goals. The stronghold strategy aims to proactively protect iconic salmon systems that sustain healthy watersheds, safeguarding food security and mitigating climate change.
Retention bans are a good first step in addressing shark overfishing, but won't be enough to prevent continued decline. Small sharks and threatened species are most likely to die after being caught, highlighting the need for complementary strategies like area-based fishing restrictions and catch quotas.
Researchers from University of Jyväskylä recommend addressing vulnerabilities in coastal communities, such as uncontrolled shrimp farming and pollution. They suggest supporting environmentally friendly livelihoods like freshwater harvesting and agroforestry to promote sustainable development in mangrove forest areas.
A study led by Alexandria Marquardt suggests that Virginia's oyster restoration practices are effective in increasing fishery sustainability and supporting local economies. The research shows that shell replenishment activities, combined with rotational harvests, result in improved reef structure and increased commercial harvests.
A study evaluated California's marine reserve network, finding that MPAs increase fish biomass across multiple ecosystems, especially in targeted species like rockfishes. Stronger protections and habitat diversity emerged as key predictors of success.
Research featured in Nature reveals that small-scale fisheries are crucial for meeting Sustainable Development Goals related to hunger, poverty, and climate change. The study found that these operations provide essential nutrients to 2.3 billion people and support the livelihoods of nearly 500 million individuals.
A new study examines legislation and conservation efforts in the Mediterranean region to protect over 80 shark and ray species. The research reveals substantial differences in countries' efforts, with European Union countries leading implementation of measures.
A Washington State University-led study found that individuals with more long-distance friends are significantly more likely to participate in sustainable fisheries management activities, such as beach cleanups and reporting illegal fishing practices. The research highlights the potential benefits of building cross-community relationsh...
The Africa-UBC Oceans and Fisheries Visiting Fellows Program has selected two exceptional scholars, Dr. Cynthia A. Adinortey (Ghana) and Dr. Antony Otinga Oteng’o (Kenya), to collaborate with UBC researchers on ocean sustainability projects.
A new study highlights the pressures human activities place on tropical marine ecosystems, with fishing techniques and tourism posing the greatest threat. The research provides insights into the impact of various activities on different habitats, shedding light on how to ensure sustainable management.
A new study reveals significant declines in West African coastal fish stocks, with key local species experiencing reduced catches and smaller fish sizes. Local knowledge from fishermen and fishmongers highlights the impact of semi-industrial fishing practices on marine ecosystems.
A new study suggests that regulations designed to protect Lake Erie's water quality may be too restrictive for some species of fish, but still beneficial until the middle of this century. Researchers recommend a systems-level approach to managing ecosystems, considering tradeoffs between fisheries and water quality objectives.
Industrial fishing practices in tropical and subtropical waters release high levels of methylmercury into the ocean. The majority of this mercury is found in large pelagic fish like tuna, which are then consumed by humans. This can lead to developmental delays in children and impaired cardiovascular health in adults.
A new set of 11 golden rules aims to minimize ocean destruction and preserve fish populations. The rules prioritize minimizing impacts on marine species, habitats, and human communities, while supporting sustainable fishing practices.
A new study found that one in five seafood products was mislabeled, with endangered species such as European eel being sold as freshwater eel. The study highlights the need for clearer labeling standards to protect vulnerable marine populations.
Researchers analyzed DNA in fecal samples to determine the diet of Alaska and southern resident killer whales. They found that both populations prefer salmon, but differ in when they switch to hunting other fish species. The study provides key insights into the delicate balance between regional abundance of different fish species.