Articles tagged with Fishing
A long-term study from WCS found that no-take marine protected areas increased fish populations by 42% and achieved the benefits of stable and high production for fishers, while protecting threatened ecosystems. Simulation models were tested with empirical data, showing that no-take MPAs can compensate for lost fishing grounds and stocks.
A Cornell University-led study found that when temperatures rise, people fish less often, but stocks of fish and other aquatic foods increase, leading to slightly larger catches. Factoring in human behavior is crucial for understanding climate change's effects on rural livelihoods and food access.
A world-first study found that partially protected yellow zones within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park are still important for conserving reef fish populations. The areas, which limit fishing through gear restrictions, contained up to 69% of the target fish numbers in adjacent no-fishing green zones.
African waters contribute to global fish supply, generating $15 billion for Africa's GDP in 2011. However, climate change and pollution threaten fish stocks, raising concerns about sustainability. A new study uses AIS satellite data to describe spatial characteristics of African and foreign industrial fishing activities.
A new study found an aggregation site of great white sharks in the Gulf of California, with estimated mortality rates potentially three times higher than previously thought. This discovery raises concerns about conservation efforts and highlights opportunities for sustainable eco-tourism.
New research reveals that Seychelles giant trevally's home range increases as it grows, emphasizing the need for long-term tracking and monitoring of threatened species. The study suggests conserving nursery areas like St Joseph Atoll to protect the next generation and finding a balance between harvesting and catch-and-release fishing.
A study published in Latin American Antiquity reveals that the Supe Culture's pyramidal buildings in Caral, Peru, were aligned with lunar cycles and topographic features, indicating a sophisticated understanding of astronomy and landscape by ancient inhabitants. The researchers found that the buildings' orientations coincide with the m...
A novel analysis of albatross and commercial fishing vessel encounters provides new understanding of seabird behavior and environmental conditions that influence these interactions. Researchers found that birds are more likely to engage with vessels in foraging states, and certain vessel characteristics do not impact bird-vessel intera...
UK fishers face economic insecurity and climate-driven storms, making it harder to balance risks and rewards. The study suggests that factors like household income, fishing success, and crew support influence decision-making, with skippers taking greater risks when expecting good catches.
Researchers at VIMS are creating an AI-powered fishing app using angler photos to train software to identify fish species. The app aims to provide anglers a field guide and scientists with a collaborative tool for better management of recreational species, while contributing to sustainable fisheries management.
A recent study published in Conservation Science and Practice found that known deaths of critically endangered North Atlantic right whales account for only 36% of the true death toll. The study analyzed data on whale encounters, animal health, serious injuries, and necropsies to determine undercounting of human-caused mortalities.
Research reveals pirate attacks occur more frequently in areas with high-bycatch fishing and habitat destruction. The correlation persists even when accounting for neighboring coastal conditions.
Researchers found that managing pot fishing intensity at an optimum level increases quality of catch, benefits environment, and makes industry more sustainable. The study provides evidence of a 'threshold' for pot fishing intensity, highlighting compatibility with marine conservation when managed correctly.
A new study finds that households' ability to glean seafood in rough weather is influenced by shallow habitat area and type. This highlights the importance of context-specific understanding of dynamic coastal livelihoods for sustainable fisheries management.
New research reveals that marine reserves can increase fish catches by 225% and enhance the fishery, contrary to long-held skepticism. By providing a refuge for stock rebuilding and spillover into nearby waters, MPAs lead to improved catch rates.
The ocean floor is accumulating marine litter, with plastics and fishing gears dominating seafloor litter hotspots. The study highlights the need for new methodologies and tools to quantify litter occurrence and distribution.
A new study found that partially protected marine areas, which allow some fishing, had no more fish, invertebrates, or algae and did not attract users more highly than open areas. In contrast, fully protected areas had higher biodiversity and were valued more by coastal users.
Researchers studied the impact of a marine heatwave-associated harmful algal bloom on Dungeness crab fishing communities. They found that 71% of vessels temporarily left the industry, but those who adapted by participating in other fisheries or moving to more favorable locations were better resilient.
A new model uses satellite data, machine learning, and human rights expertise to identify vessels at high risk of engaging in forced labor. Up to 26% of the global fishing fleet was found to be at high risk, with an estimated 100,000 individuals working on these vessels.
A study using satellite data linked companies to fishing activity in high seas waters, shedding light on commercial fishing practices. Researchers found approximately two-thirds of detected fishing effort was attributed to 1,120 corporations owning nearly 2,500 vessels.
A blanket ban on landing thresher sharks has stopped targeted fishing, but persistent 'bycatch' continues to be a problem. The study found that bycatch is widely unrecorded due to mistrust and confusion among fishers, making it hard for authorities to enforce the ban.
A study by the University of Barcelona reveals that fishing hardens the understanding of how species adapt to their environment, with morphotypes differing in resource use and diet within marine reserves. Marine reservoirs are crucial for understanding original behavior before human intervention.
A Rutgers-led study finds that planning ahead for climate change can help protect marine species and commercial fisheries by setting aside parts of the ocean for conservation and fishing. Effective ocean planning can lead to better safeguards with few tradeoffs.
A comprehensive analysis finds that traditional salmon fishing practices and governance show promise for rebuilding resilient fisheries. Indigenous communities' focus on terminal fisheries and selective fishing tools can deliver better results for all communities.
A new study reveals that conservation efforts are making an impact on silky sharks, with 99.8% of fins from Hong Kong and China originating from the Indo-Pacific Ocean. The research highlights the need for increased monitoring and better implementation of CITES regulations to combat illegal shark fin trade.
A new study published in Ecological Applications reveals that Nebraska anglers tend to visit the same seven popular fishing spots consistently, drawn from the same ZIP codes throughout the year. This finding provides valuable insights for natural resource managers seeking to optimize lake management and sustainable fishing experiences.
A new study by Oregon State University researcher Will White found that most Channel Islands marine protected areas have no poaching and fish populations are thriving. Harvest rates were essentially at zero for four species of kelp forest fish inside the protected areas between 2003 and 2017.
Entanglement in waste fishing gear poses a significant threat to Ganges River wildlife, including critically endangered species like the three-striped roofed turtle and Ganges river dolphin. The study highlights the need for recycling systems and awareness-raising initiatives to mitigate plastic pollution.
A new study reveals that rare small cat species in the Indian subcontinent are insufficiently protected, with broadleaved forests and wetlands being critical habitats.
A recent study found that leaving more big fish in the sea reduces CO2 emissions by sequestering carbon. Large fish like tuna and sharks contain significant amounts of carbon, which is released into the atmosphere when they are caught.
A new model forecasts that strategically placing marine protected areas can improve fish populations and increase local catch. The research suggests that protecting an additional 5% of the ocean could boost future catches by 9-12 million metric tons.
Krill experts recommend a new management system to address fluctuations in abundances, migration patterns, and environmental conditions affecting the species. The goal is to provide CCAMLR with the latest knowledge on krill stocks to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
Research reveals that 14 out of 18 species observed suffered damage from pot fishing, including indicators of general health in the marine environment. The study highlights the need for authorities and fishing communities to balance ecology with social and economic considerations.
Researchers used data from fishing technology company ReelSonar to model angler movements and predict where aquatic invasives may spread. The study found that anglers who fish frequently in the same area are more likely to transport invasive species.
Research reveals coral reef ecosystems collapse under rapid fishing pressures due to positive feedback between fish behavior and ecosystem sensitivity. The study highlights the importance of understanding the social component of individual fish in managing coral reefs for sustainable harvest levels.
Researchers studied 25 immature chimpanzees learning to use tools, discovering they acquire complex termite-extracting skills over time. The study provides insights into how technology evolved in human culture and highlights the sophistication of Central African chimpanzee tool-using skills.
A study found that cormorants' presence in Quark reduces perch populations and catches, especially close to breeding areas. Cormorants consume up to 20-33% of tagged perch individuals, affecting their growth rate and population dynamics.
A new study found that solitary outdoor activities, such as fishing or hunting, are key to building a strong connection between children and nature. Social activities outdoors also help cement this bond. Children who engage in these activities enjoy being outside and feel comfortable, leading to mental and physical benefits.
A bottlenose dolphin calf found entangled in monofilament fishing line in the Indian River Lagoon suffered long-term damage to its maxillary bones, dentition, and soft tissues. The dolphin's body condition declined significantly after release, leading to death two years later.
A global study found sharks are functionally extinct on nearly one in five of the world's reefs. The survey, published in Nature, covered 371 reefs across 58 countries and revealed that sharks were rarely seen on close to 20% of those reefs.
A new study reveals widespread illegal fishing by dark fleets operating in the disputed waters between Korea, Japan, and Russia. Hundreds of Chinese vessels were found to be fishing in North Korean waters, violating UN sanctions and catching nearly as much Pacific flying squid as Japan and South Korea combined.
Research by UNSW Sydney and NSW DPI Fisheries found that artificial reefs in estuaries with limited natural reef can increase fish abundance significantly. The study revealed a 20-fold increase in fish populations in the reef areas compared to bare sand habitats, benefiting recreational fishing and environmental conservation.
A recent study found that tropical reefs are driven by bottom-up forcing, while temperate reefs are more influenced by top-down forcing. Marine reserves increased predator populations in both tropical and temperate regions.
The largest fish produce more offspring, while smaller competitors gain an advantage when it comes to finding mates. Females tend to be rarer than males at spawning grounds, and early life-history affects female reproduction.
A new study suggests that operating with fewer traps and a shorter season in the US lobster fishery may be more profitable for fishermen while also protecting endangered North Atlantic right whales. The research found that Massachusetts fishers have caught more lobster since implementing a three-month fishing closure, while Maine's lob...
Researchers found 38 distinct technical elements in chimpanzee termite fishing, with individuals sharing common elements among communities. This study expands our understanding of chimpanzee culture, highlighting the complexity and diversity of their social behaviors.
A 145 million-year-old ichthyosaur skeleton was studied using a selfie stick and fishing rod, revealing that Nannopterygius was a widespread species during the Late Jurassic. New discoveries found specimens in UK museums, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Kimmeridge, Dorset, expanding our knowledge of this ancient reptile.
Researchers use innovative technique to study fossilized skeleton in London museum, discovering it belongs to previously thought rare genus. Analysis reveals widespread distribution across UK, Russia, and Arctic regions.
Researchers found that pingers significantly reduced harbour porpoise detection, with a 37% decrease near active devices, while having no impact on long-term use or feeding grounds. The study suggests an effective solution to reduce bycatch in gill-net fisheries.
Size-selective fisheries can impair reproductive success in fish populations by reducing the availability of reproductively superior large individuals. This, in turn, affects population growth and resilience, as sexual selection cannot operate effectively without a sufficient pool of optimal mates.
A new study found that climate change could significantly reduce shorefast ice in Arctic communities, with potential declines of five to 44 days by 2100. The coldest regions are expected to experience the largest reductions, posing concerns for preserving polar ecosystems and local ways of life.
Poor Amazonians struggle to catch enough fish during massive seasonal floods, leading to widespread malnutrition and lifelong health consequences. Researchers found that families often go without food for days or eat smaller portions.
A study by Michigan State University examines the complex relationships between small-scale fishing activities, including pre- and post-harvest interactions, to understand the impact on fishers' livelihoods. The research highlights the importance of trust and collaborative relationships in shaping these dynamics.
Researchers found that a social marketing program, Fish Forever, increased community support for sustainable fishing practices. The program's customizable approach and community-led initiatives helped shift social norms and improve perception of management interventions.
Research shows that West Coast Dungeness crab numbers are stable or increasing, with Central California catches averaging five times those of past decades. The fishery's success may be attributed to fishing regulations protecting reproductive potential and natural variability in ocean conditions.
A study estimates that women worldwide catch 3 million tonnes of marine fish and seafood per year, generating $5.6 billion in value or 12% of global small-scale fisheries catches. The economic impact is even higher at $26 billion when adjusted for purchasing power parity.
Researchers found that expansion of Pacific Remote Islands and Papahanaumokuakea marine national monuments increased catch per unit effort for the Hawaii-based longline industry, showing no significant economic losses. The study controlled for factors like ocean conditions and regulations to assess impacts on the fishery.
A new analysis by New York University researchers found that policies regulating international fishing often fail to protect fisheries observers from life-threatening risks. The study revealed significant gaps in observer safety and rights, with only three RFMOs mandating full observer coverage on fishing vessels.
Researchers create molecular 'fishing' technology using customized receptors to detect specific proteins in blood, offering a precise diagnostic tool for diseases and drug discovery applications.
A new study by the USDA Forest Service-led Pacific Northwest Research Station found that Alaska's Tongass and Chugach National Forests produce an average of 48 million salmon annually, worth approximately $88 million. The forest rivers and lakes support the salmon population through various life stages.