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Lozano-Bilbao E, Jurado-Ruzafa A, Hardisson A, González-Weller D, Paz S, Techetach M, Gutiérrez ÁJ. Metal content in Sardina pilchardus during the period 2014-2022 in the Canary Islands (Atlantic EC, Spain). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:16066-16075. [PMID: 38236572 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32010-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
The contamination present in an organism varies depending on biological and oceanographic conditions, so monitoring the same species is of great importance to understand the state of the ecosystem. Fifteen specimens in Sardina pilchardus between 12 and 15 cm in total length were collected during the second half of January of each of the study years (2014, 2016, 2018, 2020 and 2022). Samples were analyzed with Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) to measure metals (Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Li, Ni, Pb and Zn) in mg/Kg. There was a progressive decrease in Pb content over the period, with the highest concentration being obtained in 2014 (0.086 ± 0.065 mg/kg). Locally important oceanic-atmospheric events may occur in the study period that strongly impact the tissue composition of marine organisms. In this case, discontinuous trends were evident in some of the metal concentrations analyzed in the muscle of European sardine in the Canary Islands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Lozano-Bilbao
- Grupo Interuniversitario de Toxicología Alimentaria y Ambiental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Campus de Ofra, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38071, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
- Grupo de Investigación en Ecología Marina Aplicada y Pesquerías (EMAP), Instituto de Investigación de Estudios Ambientales y Recursos Naturales (I-UNAT), Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Campus de Tafira, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35017, Las Palmas, Spain.
| | - Alba Jurado-Ruzafa
- Spanish Institute of Oceanography, Oceanographic Center of the Canary Islands (IEO, CSIC), 38180, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Arturo Hardisson
- Grupo Interuniversitario de Toxicología Alimentaria y Ambiental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Campus de Ofra, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38071, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Área de Toxicología, Universidad de La Laguna. Campus de Ofra, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38071, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Dailos González-Weller
- Grupo Interuniversitario de Toxicología Alimentaria y Ambiental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Campus de Ofra, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38071, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Servicio Público Canario de Salud, Laboratorio Central. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, 38006, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Soraya Paz
- Grupo Interuniversitario de Toxicología Alimentaria y Ambiental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Campus de Ofra, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38071, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Área de Toxicología, Universidad de La Laguna. Campus de Ofra, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38071, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Mohamed Techetach
- Environmental and Health Team, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Safi, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Ángel J Gutiérrez
- Grupo Interuniversitario de Toxicología Alimentaria y Ambiental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Campus de Ofra, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38071, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Área de Toxicología, Universidad de La Laguna. Campus de Ofra, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, 38071, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
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2
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Rousseau Y, Blanchard JL, Novaglio C, Pinnell KA, Tittensor DP, Watson RA, Ye Y. A database of mapped global fishing activity 1950-2017. Sci Data 2024; 11:48. [PMID: 38191576 PMCID: PMC10774419 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-023-02824-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
A new database on historical country-level fishing fleet capacity and effort is described, derived from a range of publicly available sources that were harmonized, converted to fishing effort, and mapped to 30-min spatial cells. The resulting data is comparable with widely used but more temporally-limited satellite-sourced Automatic Identification System (AIS) datasets for large vessels, while also documenting important smaller fleets and artisanal segments. It ranges from 1950 to 2017, and includes information on number of vessels, engine power, gross tonnage, and nominal effort, categorized by vessel length, gear type and targeted functional groups. The data can be aggregated to Large Marine Ecosystem, region and/or fishing country scales and provides a temporally and spatially explicit source for fishing effort and fleet capacity for studies aimed at understanding the implications of long-term changes in fishing activity in the global ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Rousseau
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.
| | - Julia L Blanchard
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
| | - Camilla Novaglio
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Kirsty A Pinnell
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | | | - Reg A Watson
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Yimin Ye
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy
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3
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Paolo FS, Kroodsma D, Raynor J, Hochberg T, Davis P, Cleary J, Marsaglia L, Orofino S, Thomas C, Halpin P. Satellite mapping reveals extensive industrial activity at sea. Nature 2024; 625:85-91. [PMID: 38172362 PMCID: PMC10764273 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06825-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The world's population increasingly relies on the ocean for food, energy production and global trade1-3, yet human activities at sea are not well quantified4,5. We combine satellite imagery, vessel GPS data and deep-learning models to map industrial vessel activities and offshore energy infrastructure across the world's coastal waters from 2017 to 2021. We find that 72-76% of the world's industrial fishing vessels are not publicly tracked, with much of that fishing taking place around South Asia, Southeast Asia and Africa. We also find that 21-30% of transport and energy vessel activity is missing from public tracking systems. Globally, fishing decreased by 12 ± 1% at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and had not recovered to pre-pandemic levels by 2021. By contrast, transport and energy vessel activities were relatively unaffected during the same period. Offshore wind is growing rapidly, with most wind turbines confined to small areas of the ocean but surpassing the number of oil structures in 2021. Our map of ocean industrialization reveals changes in some of the most extensive and economically important human activities at sea.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennifer Raynor
- Forest and Wildlife Ecology Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Pete Davis
- Global Fishing Watch, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jesse Cleary
- Marine Geospatial Ecology Lab, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Sara Orofino
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | | | - Patrick Halpin
- Marine Geospatial Ecology Lab, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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4
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Virdin J, Basurto X, Nico G, Harper S, Del Mar Mancha-Cisneros M, Vannuccini S, Ahern M, Anderson CM, Funge-Smith S, Gutierrez NL, Mills DJ, Franz N. Fishing for subsistence constitutes a livelihood safety net for populations dependent on aquatic foods around the world. NATURE FOOD 2023; 4:874-885. [PMID: 37749393 PMCID: PMC10589092 DOI: 10.1038/s43016-023-00844-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Fishing for subsistence constitutes a livelihood safety net for poverty, malnutrition and gender inequality for populations dependent upon aquatic foods around the world. Here we provide global estimates showing that almost the same amount of small-scale fishers engage in subsistence fishing at some point during the year as in commercial employment and use subsistence estimates to measure small-scale fisheries' livelihood safety net function. In 2016, we estimate that 52.8 million people were engaged in subsistence fishing at some point during the year, while another 60.2 million people were commercially employed (90% of global fisheries employment). From 14 country case studies, it was possible to estimate that the subsistence catch provided an average apparent intake of six nutrients critical for positive health outcomes, equivalent to 26% of the recommended daily nutrient intake for 112.5 million people, higher than the national average contribution of beef or poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Virdin
- Duke Marine Lab, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Beaufort, NC, USA.
| | - Xavier Basurto
- Duke Marine Lab, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Beaufort, NC, USA
| | - Gianluigi Nico
- World Bank, Rome, Italy
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy
| | - Sarah Harper
- School of Environmental Studies, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Maria Del Mar Mancha-Cisneros
- Duke Marine Lab, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Beaufort, NC, USA
- Scripps Institute of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Stefania Vannuccini
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy
| | - Molly Ahern
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy
| | - Christopher M Anderson
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences and Center for Sustaining Seafood, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Simon Funge-Smith
- FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nicolas L Gutierrez
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy
| | - David J Mills
- WorldFish and Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole Franz
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy
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5
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Ye Y, Link JS. A composite fishing index to support the monitoring and sustainable management of world fisheries. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10571. [PMID: 37386054 PMCID: PMC10310702 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37048-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Overfishing has severe social, economic, and environmental ramifications. Eliminating global overfishing is one of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs require effective policy and progress monitoring. However, current indicators are issue-specific and cannot be utilized to measure fisheries efficacy holistically. This study develops a comprehensive index that takes into account the inputs, outputs, and ecological implications of fisheries. These components are then merged to form a single composite fishing index that evaluates both total fishing pressure on the ecosystem and historical patterns. The global fishing intensity grew by a factor of eleven between 1950 and 2017, and geographical differences emerged. The fishing intensity of developed countries peaked in 1997 and has since fallen due to management, but developing countries' fishing intensity has increased continuously over the whole research period, with quasi-linear growth after 1980. Africa has experienced the most rapid expansion in fishing activity and now has the highest fishing intensity. This index takes a more comprehensive and objective look at fisheries. Its worldwide spatial-temporal comparison enables the identification of similar temporal trends across countries or regions, as well as areas of uneven development and hotspot sites for targeted policy action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimin Ye
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy.
| | - Jason S Link
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 166 Water Street, Woods Hole, MA, 02543, USA
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6
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Castello L, Carvalho F, Ateba NOO, Busanga AK, Ickowitz A, Frimpong E. An approach to assess data-less small-scale fisheries: examples from Congo rivers. REVIEWS IN FISH BIOLOGY AND FISHERIES 2023; 33:1-18. [PMID: 37360580 PMCID: PMC10030197 DOI: 10.1007/s11160-023-09770-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Small-scale fisheries (SSF) account for much of the global fish catch, but data to assess them often do not exist, impeding assessments of their historical dynamics and status. Here, we propose an approach to assess 'data-less' SSF using local knowledge to produce data, life history theory to describe their historical multispecies dynamics, and length-based reference points to evaluate stock status. We demonstrate use of this approach in three data-less SSFs of the Congo Basin. Fishers' recalls of past fishing events indicated fish catch declined by 65-80% over the last half-century. Declines in and depletion of many historically important species reduced the diversity of exploited species, making the species composition of the catch more homogenous in recent years. Length-at-catch of 11 of the 12 most important species were below their respective lengths-at-maturity and optimal lengths (obtained from Fishbase) in recent years, indicating overfishing. The most overfished species were large-bodied and found in the Congo mainstem. These results show the approach can suitably assess data-less SSF. Fishers' knowledge produced data at a fraction of the cost and effort of collecting fisheries landings data. Historical and current data on fish catch, length-at-catch, and species diversity can inform management and restoration efforts to curb shifting baselines of these fisheries. Classification of stock status allows prioritizing management efforts. The approach is easy to apply and generates intuitive results, having potential to complement the toolkits of researchers and managers working in SSF and engage stakeholders in decision-making processes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11160-023-09770-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro Castello
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA USA
| | - Felipe Carvalho
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA USA
| | | | - Alidor Kankonda Busanga
- Department of Hydrobiology, University of Kisangani, Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Amy Ickowitz
- Center for International Forestry Research, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Emmanuel Frimpong
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA USA
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7
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Muñoz M, Reul A, Guijarro B, Hidalgo M. Carbon footprint, economic benefits and sustainable fishing: Lessons for the future from the Western Mediterranean. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 865:160783. [PMID: 36539097 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Ensuring an economically viable, sustainable and low CO2 emission extractive fishery is critical in order to achieve the life below water UN sustainable development goals and the climate change commitments of Paris agreement. This challenge is even more relevant in the most overexploited region of the world: The Mediterranean Sea. Here, we use the socio-ecological system of the Spanish Mediterranean commercial fisheries (Northern Alboran Sea, Northern Spain and the Balearic Islands) to develop an integrative impact assessment, including detailed socio-economic, ecosystem indices of the trophic structure of extractive fishery and CO2 emission analyses combining different gear, vessel size classes as well as a wide range estimation of carbon release from the seafloor by bottom trawling. Northern Alboran Sea preferentially requires reduction in purse seine fishery while in Northern Spain bottom trawling should be reduced first to reach sustainable exploitation. Fuel CO2 footprint of purse seine and bottom trawling are among the lowest footprints of animal protein production, but considering sweeping released CO2 from the seafloor the bottom trawling footprint becomes the animal protein production with the highest footprint. Moreover, the lowest bottom released CO2 estimation overrides 2.7-10 times the CO2 buried in the seafloor through the biological pump in trawled areas potentially turning the continental shelf from a CO2 sink to a CO2 source. Net profit per fuel derived CO2 emission for all fleets is lower than 1€ kgCO2-1, being lowest for large bottom trawler (0.025 € kgCO2-1). Thus, urgent mitigation and adaptation measures are necessary to obtain sustainable fishery in terms of net profit, sustainable seafood extraction and CO2 emission reduction. Our study provides scientific bases to develop these measures such as the restriction of harmful fishing gear in carbon rich river influenced areas, reduction of bottom contact of the fishing gear, favouring purse seine fishery and smaller bottom trawlers.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Muñoz
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares, Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Departamento de Ecología y Geología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Campus Universitario de Teatinos, s/n, 29071 Málaga, Spain.
| | - A Reul
- Departamento de Ecología y Geología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Campus Universitario de Teatinos, s/n, 29071 Málaga, Spain
| | - B Guijarro
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares, Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - M Hidalgo
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares, Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO-CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Palma de Mallorca, Spain
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8
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Robinson JPW, Mills DJ, Asiedu GA, Byrd K, Mancha Cisneros MDM, Cohen PJ, Fiorella KJ, Graham NAJ, MacNeil MA, Maire E, Mbaru EK, Nico G, Omukoto JO, Simmance F, Hicks CC. Small pelagic fish supply abundant and affordable micronutrients to low- and middle-income countries. NATURE FOOD 2022; 3:1075-1084. [PMID: 37118295 DOI: 10.1038/s43016-022-00643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
Wild-caught fish provide an irreplaceable source of essential nutrients in food-insecure places. Fishers catch thousands of species, yet the diversity of aquatic foods is often categorized homogeneously as 'fish', obscuring an understanding of which species supply affordable, nutritious and abundant food. Here, we use catch, economic and nutrient data on 2,348 species to identify the most affordable and nutritious fish in 39 low- and middle-income countries. We find that a 100 g portion of fish cost between 10 and 30% of the cheapest daily diet, with small pelagic fish (herring, sardine, anchovy) being the cheapest nutritious fish in 72% of countries. In sub-Saharan Africa, where nutrient deficiencies are rising, <20% of small pelagic catch would meet recommended dietary fish intakes for all children (6 months to 4 years old) living near to water bodies. Nutrition-sensitive policies that ensure local supplies and promote consumption of wild-caught fish could help address nutrient deficiencies in vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David J Mills
- WorldFish, Jalan Batu Maung, Batu Maung, Bayan Lepas, Malaysia
- Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | | | - Kendra Byrd
- WorldFish, Jalan Batu Maung, Batu Maung, Bayan Lepas, Malaysia
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Chatham, UK
| | - Maria Del Mar Mancha Cisneros
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Philippa J Cohen
- WorldFish, Jalan Batu Maung, Batu Maung, Bayan Lepas, Malaysia
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kathryn J Fiorella
- Department of Public & Ecosystem Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | | | - M Aaron MacNeil
- Ocean Frontier Institute, Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Eva Maire
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Emmanuel K Mbaru
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Gianluigi Nico
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Department, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy
| | - Johnstone O Omukoto
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Fiona Simmance
- WorldFish, Jalan Batu Maung, Batu Maung, Bayan Lepas, Malaysia
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9
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Richardson K, Hardesty BD, Vince J, Wilcox C. Global estimates of fishing gear lost to the ocean each year. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabq0135. [PMID: 36223462 PMCID: PMC9555783 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abq0135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) is a major contributor to ocean pollution, with extensive social, economic, and environmental impacts. However, quantitative ALDFG estimates are dated and limited in scope. To provide current global estimates, we interviewed fishers around the world about how much fishing gear they lose annually and multiplied reported losses by global fishing effort data. We estimate that nearly 2% of all fishing gear, comprising 2963 km2 of gillnets, 75,049 km2 of purse seine nets, 218 km2 of trawl nets, 739,583 km of longline mainlines, and more than 25 million pots and traps are lost to the ocean annually. These estimates represent critical baselines that can inform solutions targeted to ALDFG reduction strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Richardson
- School of Social Sciences, College of Arts, Law, and Education, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Oceans and Atmosphere, Hobart, Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Britta Denise Hardesty
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Oceans and Atmosphere, Hobart, Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Joanna Vince
- School of Social Sciences, College of Arts, Law, and Education, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Chris Wilcox
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Oceans and Atmosphere, Hobart, Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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10
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Ramírez F, Shannon LJ, Angelini R, Steenbeek J, Coll M. Overfishing species on the move may burden seafood provision in the low-latitude Atlantic Ocean. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 836:155480. [PMID: 35469888 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Climate and fisheries interact, often synergistically, and may challenge marine ecosystem functioning and management, along with seafood provision. Here, we spatially combine highly resolved assessments of climate-driven changes in optimal environmental conditions (i.e., optimal habitats) for the pelagic fish community with available industrial fishery data to identify highly impacted inshore areas in the Central and Southern Atlantic Ocean. Overall, optimal habitat availability remained stable or decreased over recent decades for most commercial, small and medium size pelagic species, particularly in low-latitude regions. We also find a worrying overlap of these areas with fishing hotspots. Nations near the Equator (particularly along the African coast) have been doubly impacted by climate and industrial fisheries, with ultimate consequences on fish stocks and ecosystems as a whole. Management and conservation actions are urgently required to prevent species depletions and ensure seafood provisioning in these highly impacted, and often socioeconomically constrained areas. These actions may include redistributing fishing pressure and reducing it in local areas where climate forcing is particularly high, balancing resource exploitation and the conservation of marine life-supporting services in the face of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Ramírez
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Department of Renewable Marine Resources, Passeig Maritim de la Barceloneta, 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Lynne J Shannon
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ronaldo Angelini
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário Lagoa Nova, CEP 59078-970, CP 1524 Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Jeroen Steenbeek
- Ecopath International Initiative (EII) Research Association, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Coll
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Department of Renewable Marine Resources, Passeig Maritim de la Barceloneta, 37-49, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Ecopath International Initiative (EII) Research Association, Barcelona, Spain
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11
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Sustainability of the Portuguese North-Western Fishing Activity in the Face of the Recently Implemented Maritime Spatial Planning. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14031266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) for continental Portugal was approved in December 2019 and has established a novel framework for those players that carry out maritime activities. In light of this challenge, our work addresses the current status of the fishing activity in the north-western region of Portugal, where relevant small-scale fisheries (SSF) are still well established. Based on official statistical data and a stakeholder survey, structural, economic, and social issues that significantly influence the sustainability of this industry were studied. Throughout the 2012–2019 pre-COVID-19 period, the price revalorization of primary products in first-sale markets was the key aspect that allowed fisheries to partially counteract the loss of economic value associated with the decreased fishing production (a decline of 46% of the total nominal catches). Regarding the regional fishing trade network, the fact that a given species reaches a wide range of prices in closely located major landing ports (Matosinhos, Póvoa de Varzim, and Viana do Castelo) constitutes, nonetheless, an issue that deserves attention and optimization. A survey conducted among training professional fishers confirmed a deeply rooted family/regional tradition but revealed concerns about the future generational replacement. The trainees demanded stronger support from the government, a modernization process for fishing activity, as well as higher social salary standards. Moreover, they assigned a high relevance to the sustainability of aquatic resources. In conclusion, the results shown in the present study reveal a noticeable ability of the regional fishing industry to overcome the challenging economic circumstances that have occurred in the last few years. Against the new scenario decisively influenced by the MSP, a generation of future regional fishers that pursue high social and environmental standards is certainly a solid basis for an optimistic future performance of this activity. For that purpose, a firm commitment to the use of technology seems like a key strategy to adopt in order to further the sustainability of the fisheries in the north-western region of Portugal.
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12
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Trebilco R, Fleming A, Hobday AJ, Melbourne-Thomas J, Meyer A, McDonald J, McCormack PC, Anderson K, Bax N, Corney SP, Dutra LXC, Fogarty HE, McGee J, Mustonen K, Mustonen T, Norris KA, Ogier E, Constable AJ, Pecl GT. Warming world, changing ocean: mitigation and adaptation to support resilient marine systems. REVIEWS IN FISH BIOLOGY AND FISHERIES 2022. [PMID: 34566277 DOI: 10.22541/au.160193478.81087102/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Proactive and coordinated action to mitigate and adapt to climate change will be essential for achieving the healthy, resilient, safe, sustainably harvested and biodiverse ocean that the UN Decade of Ocean Science and sustainable development goals (SDGs) seek. Ocean-based mitigation actions could contribute 12% of the emissions reductions required by 2030 to keep warming to less than 1.5 ºC but, because substantial warming is already locked in, extensive adaptation action is also needed. Here, as part of the Future Seas project, we use a "foresighting/hindcasting" technique to describe two scenarios for 2030 in the context of climate change mitigation and adaptation for ocean systems. The "business-as-usual" future is expected if current trends continue, while an alternative future could be realised if society were to effectively use available data and knowledge to push as far as possible towards achieving the UN SDGs. We identify three drivers that differentiate between these alternative futures: (i) appetite for climate action, (ii) handling extreme events, and (iii) climate interventions. Actions that could navigate towards the optimistic, sustainable and technically achievable future include:(i)proactive creation and enhancement of economic incentives for mitigation and adaptation;(ii)supporting the proliferation of local initiatives to spur a global transformation;(iii)enhancing proactive coastal adaptation management;(iv)investing in research to support adaptation to emerging risks;(v)deploying marine-based renewable energy;(vi)deploying marine-based negative emissions technologies;(vii)developing and assessing solar radiation management approaches; and(viii)deploying appropriate solar radiation management approaches to help safeguard critical ecosystems. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11160-021-09678-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan Trebilco
- CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, Hobart, TAS Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Aysha Fleming
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- CSIRO Land & Water, Hobart, TAS Australia
| | - Alistair J Hobday
- CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, Hobart, TAS Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jess Melbourne-Thomas
- CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, Hobart, TAS Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Amelie Meyer
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Climate Extremes, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jan McDonald
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Faculty of Law, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Phillipa C McCormack
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Faculty of Law, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Kelli Anderson
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Narissa Bax
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Stuart P Corney
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Leo X C Dutra
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, Brisbane, Australia
- Blue Economy CRC-Co Ltd, Newnham, Australia
| | - Hannah E Fogarty
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jeffrey McGee
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Faculty of Law, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | | | | | - Kimberley A Norris
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Emily Ogier
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Andrew J Constable
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Gretta T Pecl
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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13
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Kelly R, Evans K, Alexander K, Bettiol S, Corney S, Cullen-Knox C, Cvitanovic C, de Salas K, Emad GR, Fullbrook L, Garcia C, Ison S, Ling S, Macleod C, Meyer A, Murray L, Murunga M, Nash KL, Norris K, Oellermann M, Scott J, Stark JS, Wood G, Pecl GT. Connecting to the oceans: supporting ocean literacy and public engagement. REVIEWS IN FISH BIOLOGY AND FISHERIES 2022; 32:123-143. [PMID: 33589856 PMCID: PMC7875172 DOI: 10.1007/s11160-020-09625-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Improved public understanding of the ocean and the importance of sustainable ocean use, or ocean literacy, is essential for achieving global commitments to sustainable development by 2030 and beyond. However, growing human populations (particularly in mega-cities), urbanisation and socio-economic disparity threaten opportunities for people to engage and connect directly with ocean environments. Thus, a major challenge in engaging the whole of society in achieving ocean sustainability by 2030 is to develop strategies to improve societal connections to the ocean. The concept of ocean literacy reflects public understanding of the ocean, but is also an indication of connections to, and attitudes and behaviours towards, the ocean. Improving and progressing global ocean literacy has potential to catalyse the behaviour changes necessary for achieving a sustainable future. As part of the Future Seas project (https://futureseas2030.org/), this paper aims to synthesise knowledge and perspectives on ocean literacy from a range of disciplines, including but not exclusive to marine biology, socio-ecology, philosophy, technology, psychology, oceanography and human health. Using examples from the literature, we outline the potential for positive change towards a sustainable future based on knowledge that already exists. We focus on four drivers that can influence and improve ocean literacy and societal connections to the ocean: (1) education, (2) cultural connections, (3) technological developments, and (4) knowledge exchange and science-policy interconnections. We explore how each driver plays a role in improving perceptions of the ocean to engender more widespread societal support for effective ocean management and conservation. In doing so, we develop an ocean literacy toolkit, a practical resource for enhancing ocean connections across a broad range of contexts worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Kelly
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Karen Evans
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Karen Alexander
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Silvana Bettiol
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Stuart Corney
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Coco Cullen-Knox
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- The Media School, University of Tasmania, Battery Point, Salamanca Square, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Christopher Cvitanovic
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200 Australia
| | - Kristy de Salas
- School of Technology, Environments and Design, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Gholam Reza Emad
- Australian Maritime College, University of Tasmania Newnham, Hobart, TAS 7248 Australia
| | - Liam Fullbrook
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Carolina Garcia
- School of Technology, Environments and Design, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Sierra Ison
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Scott Ling
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Catriona Macleod
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Amelie Meyer
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Linda Murray
- College of Health, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Michael Murunga
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Kirsty L. Nash
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Kimberley Norris
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Michael Oellermann
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Aquatic Systems Biology Unit, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Jennifer Scott
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | | | - Graham Wood
- School of Humanities, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250 Australia
| | - Gretta T. Pecl
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
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14
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Kelly R, Evans K, Alexander K, Bettiol S, Corney S, Cullen-Knox C, Cvitanovic C, de Salas K, Emad GR, Fullbrook L, Garcia C, Ison S, Ling S, Macleod C, Meyer A, Murray L, Murunga M, Nash KL, Norris K, Oellermann M, Scott J, Stark JS, Wood G, Pecl GT. Connecting to the oceans: supporting ocean literacy and public engagement. REVIEWS IN FISH BIOLOGY AND FISHERIES 2022. [PMID: 33589856 DOI: 10.1007/s11160-020-09616-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Improved public understanding of the ocean and the importance of sustainable ocean use, or ocean literacy, is essential for achieving global commitments to sustainable development by 2030 and beyond. However, growing human populations (particularly in mega-cities), urbanisation and socio-economic disparity threaten opportunities for people to engage and connect directly with ocean environments. Thus, a major challenge in engaging the whole of society in achieving ocean sustainability by 2030 is to develop strategies to improve societal connections to the ocean. The concept of ocean literacy reflects public understanding of the ocean, but is also an indication of connections to, and attitudes and behaviours towards, the ocean. Improving and progressing global ocean literacy has potential to catalyse the behaviour changes necessary for achieving a sustainable future. As part of the Future Seas project (https://futureseas2030.org/), this paper aims to synthesise knowledge and perspectives on ocean literacy from a range of disciplines, including but not exclusive to marine biology, socio-ecology, philosophy, technology, psychology, oceanography and human health. Using examples from the literature, we outline the potential for positive change towards a sustainable future based on knowledge that already exists. We focus on four drivers that can influence and improve ocean literacy and societal connections to the ocean: (1) education, (2) cultural connections, (3) technological developments, and (4) knowledge exchange and science-policy interconnections. We explore how each driver plays a role in improving perceptions of the ocean to engender more widespread societal support for effective ocean management and conservation. In doing so, we develop an ocean literacy toolkit, a practical resource for enhancing ocean connections across a broad range of contexts worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Kelly
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Karen Evans
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Karen Alexander
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Silvana Bettiol
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Stuart Corney
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Coco Cullen-Knox
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- The Media School, University of Tasmania, Battery Point, Salamanca Square, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Christopher Cvitanovic
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200 Australia
| | - Kristy de Salas
- School of Technology, Environments and Design, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Gholam Reza Emad
- Australian Maritime College, University of Tasmania Newnham, Hobart, TAS 7248 Australia
| | - Liam Fullbrook
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Carolina Garcia
- School of Technology, Environments and Design, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Sierra Ison
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Scott Ling
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Catriona Macleod
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Amelie Meyer
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Linda Murray
- College of Health, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Michael Murunga
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Kirsty L Nash
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Kimberley Norris
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Michael Oellermann
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Aquatic Systems Biology Unit, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Jennifer Scott
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
| | | | - Graham Wood
- School of Humanities, University of Tasmania, Launceston, TAS 7250 Australia
| | - Gretta T Pecl
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
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15
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Abstract
Biodiversity loss is a global problem, accelerated by human-induced pressures. In the marine realm, one of the major threats to species conservation, together with climate change, is overfishing. In this context, having information on the conservation status of target commercial marine fish species becomes crucial for assuring safe standards. We put together fisheries statistics from the FAO, the IUCN Red List, FishBase, and RAM Legacy databases to understand to what extent top commercial species’ conservation status has been assessed. Levels of assessment for top-fished species were higher than those for general commercial or highly commercial species, but almost half of the species have outdated assessments. We found no relation between IUCN Red List traits and FishBase Vulnerability Index, depreciating the latter value as a guidance for extinction threat. The RAM database suggests good management of more-threatened species in recent decades, but more data are required to assess whether the trend has reverted in recent years. Outdated IUCN Red List assessments can benefit from reputed stock assessments for new reassessments. The future of IUCN Red List evaluations for commercial fish species relies on integrating new parameters from fisheries sources and improved collaboration with fisheries stakeholders and managers.
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16
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Bianchi D, Carozza DA, Galbraith ED, Guiet J, DeVries T. Estimating global biomass and biogeochemical cycling of marine fish with and without fishing. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabd7554. [PMID: 34623923 PMCID: PMC8500507 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abd7554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The biomass and biogeochemical roles of fish in the ocean are ecologically important but poorly known. Here, we use a data-constrained marine ecosystem model to provide a first-order estimate of the historical reduction of fish biomass due to fishing and the associated change in biogeochemical cycling rates. The pre-exploitation global biomass of exploited fish (10 g to 100 kg) was 3.3 ± 0.5 Gt, cycling roughly 2% of global primary production (9.4 ± 1.6 Gt year−1) and producing 10% of surface biological export. Particulate organic matter produced by exploited fish drove roughly 10% of the oxygen consumption and biological carbon storage at depth. By the 1990s, biomass and cycling rates had been reduced by nearly half, suggesting that the biogeochemical impact of fisheries has been comparable to that of anthropogenic climate change. Our results highlight the importance of developing a better mechanistic understanding of how fish alter ocean biogeochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Bianchi
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Corresponding author.
| | - David A. Carozza
- Département de Mathématiques, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eric D. Galbraith
- Institut de Ciència i Tecnologia Ambientals (ICTA-UAB), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Earth and Planetary Science, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jérôme Guiet
- Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Institut de Ciència i Tecnologia Ambientals (ICTA-UAB), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Timothy DeVries
- Department of Geography, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
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17
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Hočevar S, Kuparinen A. Marine food web perspective to fisheries-induced evolution. Evol Appl 2021; 14:2378-2391. [PMID: 34745332 PMCID: PMC8549614 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Fisheries exploitation can cause genetic changes in heritable traits of targeted stocks. The direction of selective pressure forced by harvest acts typically in reverse to natural selection and selects for explicit life histories, usually for younger and smaller spawners with deprived spawning potential. While the consequences that such selection might have on the population dynamics of a single species are well emphasized, we are just beginning to perceive the variety and severity of its propagating effects within the entire marine food webs and ecosystems. Here, we highlight the potential pathways in which fisheries-induced evolution, driven by size-selective fishing, might resonate through globally connected systems. We look at: (i) how a size truncation may induce shifts in ecological niches of harvested species, (ii) how a changed maturation schedule might affect the spawning potential and biomass flow, (iii) how changes in life histories can initiate trophic cascades, (iv) how the role of apex predators may be shifting and (v) whether fisheries-induced evolution could codrive species to depletion and biodiversity loss. Globally increasing effective fishing effort and the uncertain reversibility of eco-evolutionary change induced by fisheries necessitate further research, discussion and precautionary action considering the impacts of fisheries-induced evolution within marine food webs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Hočevar
- Department of Biological and Environmental ScienceUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
| | - Anna Kuparinen
- Department of Biological and Environmental ScienceUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
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18
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Trebilco R, Fleming A, Hobday AJ, Melbourne-Thomas J, Meyer A, McDonald J, McCormack PC, Anderson K, Bax N, Corney SP, Dutra LXC, Fogarty HE, McGee J, Mustonen K, Mustonen T, Norris KA, Ogier E, Constable AJ, Pecl GT. Warming world, changing ocean: mitigation and adaptation to support resilient marine systems. REVIEWS IN FISH BIOLOGY AND FISHERIES 2021; 32:39-63. [PMID: 34566277 PMCID: PMC8453030 DOI: 10.1007/s11160-021-09678-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Proactive and coordinated action to mitigate and adapt to climate change will be essential for achieving the healthy, resilient, safe, sustainably harvested and biodiverse ocean that the UN Decade of Ocean Science and sustainable development goals (SDGs) seek. Ocean-based mitigation actions could contribute 12% of the emissions reductions required by 2030 to keep warming to less than 1.5 ºC but, because substantial warming is already locked in, extensive adaptation action is also needed. Here, as part of the Future Seas project, we use a "foresighting/hindcasting" technique to describe two scenarios for 2030 in the context of climate change mitigation and adaptation for ocean systems. The "business-as-usual" future is expected if current trends continue, while an alternative future could be realised if society were to effectively use available data and knowledge to push as far as possible towards achieving the UN SDGs. We identify three drivers that differentiate between these alternative futures: (i) appetite for climate action, (ii) handling extreme events, and (iii) climate interventions. Actions that could navigate towards the optimistic, sustainable and technically achievable future include:(i)proactive creation and enhancement of economic incentives for mitigation and adaptation;(ii)supporting the proliferation of local initiatives to spur a global transformation;(iii)enhancing proactive coastal adaptation management;(iv)investing in research to support adaptation to emerging risks;(v)deploying marine-based renewable energy;(vi)deploying marine-based negative emissions technologies;(vii)developing and assessing solar radiation management approaches; and(viii)deploying appropriate solar radiation management approaches to help safeguard critical ecosystems. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11160-021-09678-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan Trebilco
- CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, Hobart, TAS Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Aysha Fleming
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- CSIRO Land & Water, Hobart, TAS Australia
| | - Alistair J. Hobday
- CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, Hobart, TAS Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jess Melbourne-Thomas
- CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, Hobart, TAS Australia
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Amelie Meyer
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Climate Extremes, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jan McDonald
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Faculty of Law, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Phillipa C. McCormack
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Faculty of Law, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Kelli Anderson
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Narissa Bax
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Stuart P. Corney
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Leo X. C. Dutra
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- CSIRO Oceans & Atmosphere, Brisbane, Australia
- Blue Economy CRC-Co Ltd, Newnham, Australia
| | - Hannah E. Fogarty
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jeffrey McGee
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Faculty of Law, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Emily Ogier
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | | | - Gretta T. Pecl
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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19
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An Open Science approach to infer fishing activity pressure on stocks and biodiversity from vessel tracking data. ECOL INFORM 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoinf.2021.101384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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20
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Abstract
Marine fisheries are an essential component of global food security, but many are close to their limits and some are overfished. The models that guide the management of these fisheries almost always assume reproduction is proportional to mass (isometry), when fecundity generally increases disproportionately to mass (hyperallometry). Judged against several management reference points, we show that assuming isometry overestimates the replenishment potential of exploited fish stocks by 22% (range: 2% to 78%) for 32 of the world's largest fisheries, risking systematic overharvesting. We calculate that target catches based on assumptions of isometry are more than double those based on assumptions of hyperallometry for most species, such that common reference points are set twice as high as they should be to maintain the target level of replenishment. We also show that hyperallometric reproduction provides opportunities for increasing the efficacy of tools that are underused in standard fisheries management, such as protected areas or harvest slot limits. Adopting management strategies that conserve large, hyperfecund fish may, in some instances, result in higher yields relative to traditional approaches. We recommend that future assessment of reference points and quotas include reproductive hyperallometry unless there is clear evidence that it does not occur in that species.
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21
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Walls RHL, Dulvy NK. Tracking the rising extinction risk of sharks and rays in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15397. [PMID: 34321530 PMCID: PMC8319307 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94632-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The loss of biodiversity is increasingly well understood on land, but trajectories of extinction risk remain largely unknown in the ocean. We present regional Red List Indices (RLIs) to track the extinction risk of 119 Northeast Atlantic and 72 Mediterranean shark and ray species primarily threatened by overfishing. We combine two IUCN workshop assessments from 2003/2005 and 2015 with a retrospective backcast assessment for 1980. We incorporate predicted categorisations for Data Deficient species from our previously published research. The percentage of threatened species rose from 1980 to 2015 from 29 to 41% (Northeast Atlantic) and 47 to 65% (Mediterranean Sea). There are as many threatened sharks and rays in Europe as there are threatened birds, but the threat level is nearly six times greater by percentage (41%, n = 56 of 136 vs. 7%, n = 56 of 792). The Northeast Atlantic RLI declined by 8% from 1980 to 2015, while the higher-risk Mediterranean RLI declined by 13%. Larger-bodied, shallow-distributed, slow-growing species and those with range boundaries within the region are more likely to have worsening status in the Northeast Atlantic. Conversely, long-established, severe threat levels obscure any potential relationships between species' traits and the likelihood of worsening IUCN status in the Mediterranean Sea. These regional RLIs provide the first widespread evidence for increasing trends in regional shark and ray extinction risk and underscore that effective fisheries management is necessary to recover the ecosystem function of these predators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel H L Walls
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Nicholas K Dulvy
- Earth to Ocean Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
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22
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Gaston KJ, Ackermann S, Bennie J, Cox DTC, Phillips BB, de Miguel AS, Sanders D. Pervasiveness of biological impacts of artificial light at night. Integr Comp Biol 2021; 61:1098-1110. [PMID: 34169964 PMCID: PMC8490694 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icab145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial light at night (ALAN) and its associated biological impacts have regularly been characterized as predominantly urban issues. Although far from trivial, this would imply that these impacts only affect ecosystems that are already heavily modified by humans and are relatively limited in their spatial extent, at least as compared with some key anthropogenic pressures on the environment that attract much more scientific and public attention, such as climate change or plastic pollution. However, there are a number of reasons to believe that ALAN and its impacts are more pervasive, and therefore need to be viewed from a broader geographic perspective rather than an essentially urban one. Here we address, in turn, 11 key issues when considering the degree of spatial pervasiveness of the biological impacts of ALAN. First, the global extent of ALAN is likely itself commonly underestimated, as a consequence of limitations of available remote sensing data sources and how these are processed. Second and third, more isolated (rural) and mobile (e.g., vehicle headlight) sources of ALAN may have both very widespread and important biological influences. Fourth and fifth, the occurrence and impacts of ALAN in marine systems and other remote settings, need much greater consideration. Sixth, seventh, and eighth, there is growing evidence for important biological impacts of ALAN at low light levels, from skyglow, and over long distances (because of the altitudes from which it may be viewed by some organisms), all of which would increase the areas over which impacts are occurring. Ninth and tenth, ALAN may exert indirect biological effects that may further expand these areas, because it has a landscape ecology (modifying movement and dispersal and so hence with effects beyond the direct extent of ALAN), and because ALAN interacts with other anthropogenic pressures on the environment. Finally, ALAN is not stable, but increasing rapidly in global extent, and shifting toward wavelengths of light that often have greater biological impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J Gaston
- Environment & Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, U.K
| | - Simone Ackermann
- Environment & Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, U.K
| | - Jonathan Bennie
- Environment & Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, U.K
| | - Daniel T C Cox
- Environment & Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, U.K
| | - Benjamin B Phillips
- Environment & Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, U.K
| | | | - Dirk Sanders
- Environment & Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, U.K
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23
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Laffoley D, Baxter J, Amon D, Claudet J, Hall‐Spencer J, Grorud‐Colvert K, Levin L, Reid P, Rogers A, Taylor M, Woodall L, Andersen N. Evolving the narrative for protecting a rapidly changing ocean, post-COVID-19. AQUATIC CONSERVATION : MARINE AND FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS 2021; 31:1512-1534. [PMID: 33362396 PMCID: PMC7753556 DOI: 10.1002/aqc.3512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The ocean is the linchpin supporting life on Earth, but it is in declining health due to an increasing footprint of human use and climate change. Despite notable successes in helping to protect the ocean, the scale of actions is simply not now meeting the overriding scale and nature of the ocean's problems that confront us.Moving into a post-COVID-19 world, new policy decisions will need to be made. Some, especially those developed prior to the pandemic, will require changes to their trajectories; others will emerge as a response to this global event. Reconnecting with nature, and specifically with the ocean, will take more than good intent and wishful thinking. Words, and how we express our connection to the ocean, clearly matter now more than ever before.The evolution of the ocean narrative, aimed at preserving and expanding options and opportunities for future generations and a healthier planet, is articulated around six themes: (1) all life is dependent on the ocean; (2) by harming the ocean, we harm ourselves; (3) by protecting the ocean, we protect ourselves; (4) humans, the ocean, biodiversity, and climate are inextricably linked; (5) ocean and climate action must be undertaken together; and (6) reversing ocean change needs action now.This narrative adopts a 'One Health' approach to protecting the ocean, addressing the whole Earth ocean system for better and more equitable social, cultural, economic, and environmental outcomes at its core. Speaking with one voice through a narrative that captures the latest science, concerns, and linkages to humanity is a precondition to action, by elevating humankind's understanding of our relationship with 'planet Ocean' and why it needs to become a central theme to everyone's lives. We have only one ocean, we must protect it, now. There is no 'Ocean B'.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Laffoley
- IUCN World Commission on Protected AreasIUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature)GlandSwitzerland
| | - J.M. Baxter
- Marine Alliance for Science and Technology for Scotland, School of Biology, East SandsUniversity of St AndrewsSt AndrewsUK
| | - D.J. Amon
- Department of Life SciencesNatural History MuseumLondonUK
| | - J. Claudet
- National Centre for Scientific ResearchPSL Université Paris, CRIOBE, USR 3278 CNRS‐EPHE‐UPVDParisFrance
| | - J.M. Hall‐Spencer
- School of Marine and Biological SciencesUniversity of PlymouthPlymouthUK
- Shimoda Marine Research CenterUniversity of TsukubaShimodaJapan
| | - K. Grorud‐Colvert
- Department of Integrative BiologyOregon State UniversityCorvallisUSA
| | - L.A. Levin
- Center for Marine Biodiversity and Conservation, Scripps Institution of OceanographyUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaUSA
| | - P.C. Reid
- School of Marine and Biological SciencesUniversity of PlymouthPlymouthUK
- The LaboratoryThe Continuous Plankton Recorder Survey, Marine Biological AssociationCitadel HillPlymouthUK
| | - A.D. Rogers
- Somerville CollegeUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- REV OceanLysakerNorway
| | | | - L.C. Woodall
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - N.F. Andersen
- Department of Environment and GeographyUniversity of YorkYorkUK
- Centre for Ecology and ConservationUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
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24
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Gilman E, Musyl M, Suuronen P, Chaloupka M, Gorgin S, Wilson J, Kuczenski B. Highest risk abandoned, lost and discarded fishing gear. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7195. [PMID: 33785766 PMCID: PMC8009918 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86123-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Derelict abandoned, lost and discarded fishing gear have profound adverse effects. We assessed gear-specific relative risks from derelict gear to rank-order fishing methods based on: derelict gear production rates, gear quantity indicators of catch weight and fishing grounds area, and adverse consequences from derelict gear. The latter accounted for ghost fishing, transfer of microplastics and toxins into food webs, spread of invasive alien species and harmful microalgae, habitat degradation, obstruction of navigation and in-use fishing gear, and coastal socioeconomic impacts. Globally, mitigating highest risk derelict gear from gillnet, tuna purse seine with fish aggregating devices, and bottom trawl fisheries achieves maximum conservation gains. Locally, adopting controls following a sequential mitigation hierarchy and implementing effective monitoring, surveillance and enforcement systems are needed to curb derelict gear from these most problematic fisheries. Primary and synthesis research are priorities to improve future risk assessments, produce the first robust estimate of global derelict gear quantity, and assess the performance of initiatives to manage derelict gear. Findings from this first quantitative estimate of gear-specific relative risks from derelict gear guide the allocation of resources to achieve the largest improvements from mitigating adverse effects of derelict gear from the world’s 4.6 million fishing vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Gilman
- The Nature Conservancy, California Oceans Program, Santa Barbara, USA.
| | | | - Petri Suuronen
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Milani Chaloupka
- Ecological Modelling Services Pty Ltd & Marine Spatial Ecology Lab, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Saeid Gorgin
- Department of Fisheries, College of Fisheries and Environment, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgān, Iran
| | - Jono Wilson
- The Nature Conservancy, California Oceans Program, Santa Barbara, USA.,Bren School of Environmental Science & Management, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, USA
| | - Brandon Kuczenski
- Bren School of Environmental Science & Management, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, USA
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25
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Kelly R, Fleming A, Pecl GT, von Gönner J, Bonn A. Citizen science and marine conservation: a global review. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 375:20190461. [PMID: 33131446 PMCID: PMC7662190 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change, overfishing, marine pollution and other anthropogenic drivers threaten our global oceans. More effective efforts are urgently required to improve the capacity of marine conservation action worldwide, as highlighted by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021–2030. Marine citizen science presents a promising avenue to enhance engagement in marine conservation around the globe. Building on an expanding field of citizen science research and practice, we present a global overview of the current extent and potential of marine citizen science and its contribution to marine conservation. Employing an online global survey, we explore the geographical distribution, type and format of 74 marine citizen science projects. By assessing how the projects adhere to the Ten Principles of Citizen Science (as defined by the European Citizen Science Association), we investigate project development, identify challenges and outline future opportunities to contribute to marine science and conservation. Synthesizing the survey results and drawing on evidence from case studies of diverse projects, we assess whether and how citizen science can lead to new scientific knowledge and enhanced environmental stewardship. Overall, we explore how marine citizen science can inform current understanding of marine biodiversity and support the development and implementation of marine conservation initiatives worldwide. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Integrative research perspectives on marine conservation’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Kelly
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7005, Australia.,Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - Aysha Fleming
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7005, Australia.,CSIRO Land and Water, Castray Esplanade, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - Gretta T Pecl
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7005, Australia.,Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, Australia
| | - Julia von Gönner
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Ecosystem Services, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany.,German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Deutscher Platz 5e, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.,Institute of Biodiversity, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Dornburger Strasse 159, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Aletta Bonn
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Department of Ecosystem Services, Permoserstr. 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany.,German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Deutscher Platz 5e, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.,Institute of Biodiversity, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Dornburger Strasse 159, 07743 Jena, Germany
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26
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Friedland KD, Langan JA, Large SI, Selden RL, Link JS, Watson RA, Collie JS. Changes in higher trophic level productivity, diversity and niche space in a rapidly warming continental shelf ecosystem. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 704:135270. [PMID: 31818590 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
There is long-standing ecological and socioeconomic interest in what controls the diversity and productivity of ecosystems. That focus has intensified with shifting environmental conditions associated with accelerating climate change. The U.S. Northeast Shelf (NES) is a well-studied continental shelf marine ecosystem that is among the more rapidly warming marine systems worldwide. Furthermore, many constituent species have experienced significant distributional shifts. However, the system response of the NES to climate change goes beyond simple shifts in species distribution. The fish and macroinvertebrate communities of the NES have increased in species diversity and overall productivity in recent decades, despite no significant decline in fishing pressure. Species distribution models constructed using random forest classification and regression trees were fit for the dominant species in the system. Over time, the areal distribution of occupancy habitat has increased for approximately 80% of the modeled taxa, suggesting most species have significantly increased their range and niche space. These niche spaces were analyzed to determine the area of niche overlap between species pairs. For the vast majority of species pairs, interaction has increased over time suggesting greater niche overlap and the increased probability for more intense species interactions, such as between competitors or predators and prey. Furthermore, the species taxonomic composition and size structure indicate a potential tropicalization of the fish community. The system and community changes are consistent with the view that the NES may be transitioning from a cold temperate or boreal ecoregion to one more consistent with the composition of a warm temperate or Carolinian system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D Friedland
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, 28 Tarzwell Drive, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA.
| | - Joseph A Langan
- Graduate School of Oceanography, University of Rhode Island, 215 South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
| | - Scott I Large
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, 166 Water Street, Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Rebecca L Selden
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Jason S Link
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, Office of the Assistant Administrator, 166 Water St., Woods Hole, MA 02543, USA
| | - Reg A Watson
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Taroona, Tas. 7001, Australia
| | - Jeremy S Collie
- Graduate School of Oceanography, University of Rhode Island, 215 South Ferry Road, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
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27
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Robinson JPW, Robinson J, Gerry C, Govinden R, Freshwater C, Graham NAJ. Diversification insulates fisher catch and revenue in heavily exploited tropical fisheries. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaaz0587. [PMID: 32128420 PMCID: PMC7034998 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz0587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Declines in commercial landings and increases in fishing fleet power have raised concerns over the continued provisioning of nutritional and economic services by tropical wild fisheries. Yet, because tropical fisheries are often data-poor, mechanisms that might buffer fishers to declines are not understood. This data scarcity undermines fisheries management, making tropical fishing livelihoods particularly vulnerable to changes in marine resources. We use high-resolution fisheries data from Seychelles to understand how fishing strategy (catch diversification) influences catch rates and revenues of individual fishing vessels. We show that average catch weight decreased by 65% over 27 years, with declines in all nine species groups coinciding with increases in fishing effort. However, for individual vessels, catch diversity was associated with larger catches and higher fishing revenues and with slower catch declines from 1990 to 2016. Management strategies should maximize catch diversity in data-poor tropical fisheries to help secure nutritional security while protecting fishing livelihoods.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P. W. Robinson
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, UK
- Corresponding author.
| | - Jan Robinson
- Ministry of Finance, Trade and Economic Planning, Victoria, Seychelles
| | - Calvin Gerry
- Seychelles Fishing Authority, Fishing Port, P.O. Box 449, Mahe, Seychelles
| | - Rodney Govinden
- Seychelles Fishing Authority, Fishing Port, P.O. Box 449, Mahe, Seychelles
| | - Cameron Freshwater
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Pacific Biological Station, Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
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28
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Abstract
Marine fish stocks are an important part of the world food system and are particularly important for many of the poorest people of the world. Most existing analyses suggest overfishing is increasing, and there is widespread concern that fish stocks are decreasing throughout most of the world. We assembled trends in abundance and harvest rate of stocks that are scientifically assessed, constituting half of the reported global marine fish catch. For these stocks, on average, abundance is increasing and is at proposed target levels. Compared with regions that are intensively managed, regions with less-developed fisheries management have, on average, 3-fold greater harvest rates and half the abundance as assessed stocks. Available evidence suggests that the regions without assessments of abundance have little fisheries management, and stocks are in poor shape. Increased application of area-appropriate fisheries science recommendations and management tools are still needed for sustaining fisheries in places where they are lacking.
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