Articles tagged with Fishing
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.
Researchers found a strong correlation between the intensity of fishing activities and microplastic abundance in sediment samples. Microplastics were detected even one foot below the surface, suggesting that previous studies may have underestimated ocean sediment pollution.
Researchers equipped albatrosses with loggers to monitor over 47 million km2 of the Southern Ocean, finding over 1/3 of boats without AIS were unidentifiable. The Ocean Sentinel project aims to promote independent data collection for conservation through animal innovation.
Tracking fishing vessels is challenging, especially in international waters. Researchers equipped 169 albatrosses with data loggers to monitor vessel locations and detect undeclared fisheries.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that the 2014-2016 marine heat wave led to a significant increase in humpback whales becoming entangled in fishing gear, averaging 53 confirmed entanglements per year. The shift in whale feeding behavior due to ocean warming caused a greater overlap between whales and crab fishing gear.
A study led by Michigan State University researchers found that a collective model created by over 200 anglers and fishing club members accurately predicted pike populations, habitat, and fishing pressure. The results show that involving diverse interest groups improves the accuracy of the solution.
A study by Portland State University researchers found that diverse crowds of local stakeholders can collectively produce complex environmental models similar to those of trained experts. The results correspond more or less exactly to scientific knowledge on the subject, with the final outcomes improving as more individuals are involve...
A new study by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School revealed that Atlantic tarpon migrate thousands of kilometers in distance beyond U.S. borders. The research found the fish use both freshwater and estuarine habitats throughout their life, with previously unknown spawning locations identified in Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
Research suggests that maintaining a healthy size distribution of parrotfish in sea floor ecosystems is crucial for coral reef health. Experiments show that large parrotfish play a key role in controlling algae growth, and selective fishing practices could lead to an overgrowth of algae if these larger fish are removed.
New research reveals that community-led rotational fishing closures can increase fish populations on closed reefs compared to open ones, making them less scared of people and easier to catch.
A recent study highlights the alarming exploitation of shark populations in Pacific Panama, with many species caught immature and vulnerable to intensive fishing. The research recommends implementing seasonal fishing bans and monitoring programs to improve conservation strategies.
Climate variability between 1996 and 2017 caused a significant decrease in county-level fishing employment in New England, with an estimated 16% decline. The study highlights the regional impact of climate change on fisheries and suggests that climate may influence fishing employment.
A new study found that LED lights along the top of floating gillnets in Peruvian waters can cut accidental bycatch of sea turtles by more than 70%, and small cetaceans (including dolphins) by over 66%. The research suggests that this simple, low-cost technique could help save wildlife while allowing fishers to fish more sustainably.
The 'blue boat' fleet, consisting of small fishing vessels painted blue, is stripping Pacific coral reefs of seafood, endangering food security for Pacific Island nations. The boats are allegedly operated by Vietnamese fishermen with no contract or insurance, and are traveling thousands of kilometers to fish illegally in Pacific waters.
An international team of scientists found that adopting the Paris Agreement's emission reduction scenario would significantly limit global productivity losses for both fishing and agriculture. In contrast, a no-action scenario would lead to significant declines in productivity for most countries.
A new study reveals that North Sea fishing vessels discard over 267,000 tonnes of fish, enough to feed 3.45 million birds, and this figure has declined since 1990. The discarded fish support scavenging bird species, with the largest declines observed in northern fulmars, black-legged kittiwakes, and herring gulls.
Researchers found that iron-poor environments limit fish populations worldwide, including areas with no fishing activity. The study highlights the crucial role of iron in marine animal ecology and suggests a new perspective on fish life cycles.
An international team of scientists has developed a novel refrigeration technology that utilizes the twisting and untwisting of fibers to achieve cooling. The twistocaloric cooling method shows promise in reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, with potential applications in commercial refrigerators and textile industry.
New research from North Carolina State University and Oregon State University predicts a decline in recreational fishing participation due to climate change, with temperature extremes having the greatest impact. The study forecasts a 2.6% decline by 2080 under stringent mitigation efforts, but warns of a 15% drop if no action is taken.
New research finds that millions of people worldwide are suffering from micronutrient deficiencies, which can be reduced by increasing access to fish caught near their homes. The study suggests that current fishing practices and trade in seafood are standing between malnourished populations and the nutrients they need.
A UK report outlines a vision for managing land and seas after Brexit, prioritizing environmental protection and employment opportunities. The report recommends an 'ecosystem-based' approach to agriculture and fishing policies, with a focus on sustainable practices and public goods.
Researchers found a significant decline in top predatory fish populations in Lake Simcoe from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s due to commercial fishing. However, once recreational fishing increased, the number of top predators began to recover, suggesting resilience in the system.
A study of 148 years of fishing records in Lake Simcoe found that commercial fishing led to depletion of high-trophic-level fish, while recreational fishing helped recover trophic levels. Fish stocking and invasive species also impacted the lake's ecosystem.
Fishing fleets' capacity to capture fish is increasing by an average of 2% yearly due to technological advancements like GPS and echo-sounders. This 'technological creep' leads to a doubling of fleet power every 35 years, further straining dwindling fish stocks.
An international study found that longline fisheries globally impact migrating shark populations, with approximately a quarter of their migratory paths affected. The research used satellite tracking and big data analysis to examine shark movements at a global scale.
A recent study has found that intense fish harvesting can cause rapid evolutionary changes, including changes in growth rates and maturity. The research, published in Science, used genomic data to analyze the effects of fishing on Atlantic silverside populations.
A study examining fishing boat captains found that those who explored new territory experienced less impact from disruptions when popular grounds were closed, suggesting the benefits of exploration in uncertain environments. This strategy may provide a way to future-proof livelihoods by drawing on knowledge of alternatives.
A new study finds that restricting inshore potting for crab and lobster within marine protected areas generates a win-win for both fishermen and the environment. Crab caught in low-potting areas were found to be heavier than those caught in areas with medium-high potting levels or unfished control areas.
According to a study published in Nature Climate Change, most fishing communities from Maine to North Carolina will face declining fishing options unless they adapt to climate change. Communities like Portland, Maine, are at greatest risk of losing their current fishing options due to ocean warming.
A new study finds that climate change will benefit giant petrels with warmer weather and improved foraging conditions, allowing them to dominate access to carrion on land and travel less at sea. However, females may be harmed by increased longline fishing, which could impair their survival.
Commercial fishers believe they can play a key role in reducing marine litter, with many already participating in initiatives like Fishing for Litter. The study found that fishers are passionate about their seas and believe collective action is needed to address the issue.
A multinational research team developed an innovative application of electronic fish-finders to predict the mix of sizes and species in tuna aggregations. This technique uses acoustic signatures, which vary by species, to distinguish between sustainable skipjack tuna and other species like yellowfin and bigeye.
Fishing workers in England and Wales experience poor general health, with 2.8% reporting 'bad' or 'very bad' health and 10.3% limited by long-term illness. The industry is facing social, environmental, and political change, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
A study by Kyoto University reveals that chimpanzees habitually catch and consume freshwater crabs, suggesting a year-round source of protein and salts for females and growing juveniles. This finding sheds light on human evolution and the diverse diets of our closest genetic relatives.
A new study found that despite increased technology and motorization, modern fishing vessels take only one fifth of the catch per unit of effort compared to the 1950s. This reflects growing pressure on marine resources and a fall in fish abundance, with Asia's fishing fleet expansion outpacing fish stocks' capacity.
The global fishing fleet increased from 1.7 million to 3.7 million vessels between 1950 and 2015, with a significant expansion in Asia. Meanwhile, catch per unit effort (CPUE) decreased globally, except for Oceania, where it increased.
A new study found that large fish fences in tropical seas are causing extensive damage to habitats, including seagrass meadows, mangroves, and coral reefs. The research revealed that these fisheries catch over 500 species, many of which are babies or conservation concerns.
Additive mortality events from human activities led to weaker social associations, reduced group size, and increased survival probability, ultimately resulting in a significant population decline. The study found that 98 individuals failed to re-associate in stable social groups after the event.
A study of ancient fish ponds in Bolivia's seasonal drylands reveals intentional maintenance of fish habitats for food. The discovery supports a permanent human settlement, using ponds to store water and harvest fish year-round.
A study published in Nature Communications found that cooperation among competing fisheries can lead to improvements in both the quality and quantity of fish in local reefs. Fishers who communicated with their competitors about fishing gear and rules reported higher fish stocks.
A new study finds that when competing fishermen cooperate over local environmental problems, they can improve the quality and quantity of fish on coral reefs. The research, conducted across five coral reef fishing communities in Kenya, reveals that communication among competitors leads to more fish and higher quality catches.
A Duke University study suggests that giant devil rays may have an unknown birthing zone in nearby waters, which could be a good news for conservation efforts but requires action to limit fishing during birthing months.
Researchers at Newcastle University found a significant discrepancy between reported and actual catches of vulnerable species like sharks and rays in small-scale fisheries. The study highlights the urgent need for global efforts to assess their impact on the environment.
A new study from the Monterey Bay Aquarium analyzed 150 years of tortoiseshell trade records, estimating over 9 million turtles were harvested for their shells. The study suggests that historical trade patterns may have established the groundwork for modern IUU fishing networks.
A study suggests that policymakers must recognize the growing role of recreational fishing in affecting fish populations and aquatic ecosystems. The authors propose five suggestions for guiding reform, including integrating angling targets into management and improving monitoring to moderate impacts on fish stocks.
A study by WCS and other groups found that even the best coral reef marine parks contain less than half of the fish biomass found in remote reefs. Fishing closures had an average biomass of 740 kg/ha, compared to 1,870 kg/ha in offshore reef sites.
A study from Florida State University found that coral reefs change can trigger significant ecosystem shifts, but ecologists and local fishing populations perceive those shifts in fundamentally different ways. The findings suggest that local perceptions of change and ecosystem health differ from those of scientists and resource managers.
Alaska's longline fisheries have reduced seabird bycatch by 77-90% since adopting streamer lines in 2002, saving thousands of birds per year. However, recent years have seen an increase in bycatch rates, particularly for albatrosses and northern fulmars.
Climate change is causing fishing communities to adapt by changing their fishing locations and strategies. Large North Carolina-based trawl vessels are now sailing 250 miles north to catch summer flounder and Atlantic croaker off the coast of New Jersey.
A new study reveals that marine fishing vessels release almost as much CO2 as 51 coal-fired power plants, with a total of 207-million tonnes emitted in 2016. The researchers found that the industry's reliance on fossil fuel and lack of policy management has led to a significant increase in emissions.