#fishpopulations

[nenzo-makioka-blog]

Period 200 Million Years

The Chinese Paddlefish was declared extinct in 2022. And other large freshwater fish species have seen their populations plummet this century. The world's large freshwater fish have declined by 90% in the past 40 years. If nothing is done, there is a strong possibility that they will all become extinct. However, if we take early action, we may be able to avoid extinction. The value of the existence of the human species can be evaluated only when we are able to care for and maintain the ecosystem of this planet.

#freshwaterecosystems #freshwaterfish #Paddlefish #extinction #fishpopulations #aquaticlife

[thxnews]

Marine Conservation: Protecting Our Seas' Future

    A Milestone in Marine Conservation

On July 5, 2023, a momentous development occurred as the official designation of Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) took place in Allonby Bay, North East of Farnes Deep, and Dolphin Head. This landmark decision grants these areas the utmost level of protection, signifying a significant step towards safeguarding our seas. A Momentous Development: Highly Protected Marine Areas Officially Designated on July 5, 2023, Signifying a Significant Step in Safeguarding Our Seas.   A Path to Natural Restoration HPMAs are unique zones in the sea encompassing the shore, seabed, sea surface, and water column, where marine life is granted exceptional protection. Consequently, the aim is to facilitate the complete recovery of marine species and their habitats, thus nurturing fish populations and revitalizing the ecosystem processes within the designated areas.  

Proposed Management Measures for Recovery

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) has put forth a series of targeted management measures designed to support the recuperation of HPMAs, returning them to their natural state. The primary focus of the proposed MMO bylaws is to enforce a ban on fishing activities within the HPMAs, aligning with their highly protected status. Moreover, non-fishing activities will undergo assessment and may be subject to management in the future.   Stakeholders Invited for Input To ensure transparency and inclusivity, the MMO has invited marine stakeholders, partner organizations, and fishers to review and offer feedback on the proposed management measures. The feedback window will be open from August 3 to September 14, 2023.  

Striving for Sustainable Management

Looking ahead, the implementation of formal notifications and a notice period will precede the introduction of any fisheries management measures. These comprehensive steps are expected to be concluded by early 2024.   Perspectives from the Chair and the Marine Minister Hilary Florek, Chair of MMO, expressed the vital role that HPMAs will play in restoring marine ecosystems along England's coastline. Furthermore, with these initial designations in place, the MMO commits to professionally managing various activities, encompassing marine developments, fisheries, and recreational marine endeavors. This strict adherence ensures the high level of protection demanded by these sites. Additionally, Marine Minister Lord Benyon emphasized the significance of Highly Protected Marine Areas in preserving crucial species and habitats. The measure also aligns with the broader mission of protecting at least 30% of the global ocean by 2030. By implementing these management measures, we will actively support the full recovery of precious underwater environments, while simultaneously achieving key environmental goals and targets, and sustaining a responsible fishing industry.   Sources: THX News, Marine Management Organisation, Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, & The Rt Hon Lord Benyon. Read the full article

#FishPopulations #FisheriesManagementMeasures #GlobalOceanProtection #HighlyProtectedMarineAreas #Marineconservation #MarineEcosystems #MarineManagementOrganisation #MarineMinister #NaturalRestoration #SustainableFishingIndustry

[denkenreisenleben]

2022_05 🇦🇱 | @journey_to_valbona 🥰 Love giveaway by #tropojane♥️ People #destruction #dirtydams #hydropower and #death to the fish and the #river giveaway by #gener2 and #edirama @ediramaal @partisocial what are you doing against the activ illegal destruction of #valbonevalleynationalpark #valbona #valbone in case of #killing #fishpopulations ? @balkanriverdefence it's a mess here! #savetheplanet #worldearthday #hydropowerplant #capitalismkills (hier: Valbonë Valley National Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/CdIhHdjsQFZ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#tropojane♥️ #destruction #dirtydams #hydropower #death #river #gener2 #edirama #valbonevalleynationalpark #valbona #valbone #killing #fishpopulations #savetheplanet #worldearthday #hydropowerplant #capitalismkills

[naturetrailquest]

The Impact of Overfishing: Understanding the Consequences of Overfishing on Marine Biodiversity, Ecosystems, and Fish Populations

#overfishing #marinebiodiversity #ecosystems #fishpopulation

In this comprehensive article, we delve into the far-reaching effects of overfishing on marine biodiversity, ecosystems, and fish populations. Learn about the importance of preserving our oceans and the implications of unsustainable fishing practices.*

Introduction

Welcome to a deep dive into the world of overfishing and its profound impact on marine ecosystems and biodiversity. As we explore the consequences of this critical issue, we aim to raise awareness about the urgent need to address overfishing and its effects on fish populations. Sustainable fishing practices are essential to maintain the delicate balance of marine life and ensure the health of our oceans for generations to come.

The Impact of Overfishing: Understanding the Consequences of Overfishing on Marine Biodiversity, Ecosystems, and Fish Populations

Overfishing is a global concern that poses a significant threat to marine biodiversity, ecosystems, and fish populations. Let's delve into the diverse ramifications of this practice and gain a deeper understanding of its consequences.

1. Overfishing Defined: The Significance of Our Oceans

To grasp the gravity of overfishing, it's essential to understand the concept itself. Overfishing occurs when fish are caught faster than their natural reproduction rate, depleting their populations beyond sustainable levels. Our oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth's surface, and they play a crucial role in regulating the planet's climate, providing a habitat for countless marine species, and supporting human livelihoods through fishing and tourism.

2. The Fragile Balance of Marine Biodiversity

Marine biodiversity is the backbone of healthy oceans. The vast array of marine species, from tiny plankton to majestic whales, creates an intricate web of interactions that maintain ecological balance. When certain fish species are overfished, it disrupts this delicate equilibrium, leading to ecological imbalances that can have cascading effects throughout the food chain.

3. Ecosystem Impacts: Ripple Effects on Marine Life

Healthy marine ecosystems rely on various species fulfilling their ecological roles. Overfishing disrupts these ecosystems, leading to unintended consequences. For example, when predators are overfished, prey populations can explode, causing a decline in their food sources and potential collapse of other species dependent on them.

4. Unintended Bycatch: The Invisible Victims

Overfishing often involves the use of indiscriminate fishing methods, leading to significant bycatch. Bycatch refers to non-target species that are unintentionally caught in fishing gear. Turtles, dolphins, and seabirds are among the innocent victims of these practices, exacerbating the threat to marine biodiversity.

5. The Economic Toll of Overfishing

The repercussions of overfishing are not confined to ecological damage; it also poses severe economic consequences. Fisheries are a critical source of income and employment for millions of people worldwide. Overfishing jeopardizes livelihoods and the fishing industry's sustainability, affecting coastal communities that heavily rely on fish for food and income.

6. Food Security and Human Nutrition

Fish is a vital protein source for billions of people, particularly in developing countries. Overfishing threatens food security by depleting fish stocks, making it difficult for communities to access nutritious food. Sustainable fishing practices are crucial to maintain fish populations and ensure food security for the growing global population.

7. Shifting Baselines: The Erosion of Marine Abundance

Overfishing has contributed to the "shifting baselines" phenomenon, wherein each generation perceives a reduced natural abundance as the new norm. Many young people may never experience the once-plentiful marine life that previous generations enjoyed. This gradual decline masks the severity of the issue and hampers our ability to grasp the urgency of conservation efforts.

8. Implications for Climate Change

Marine ecosystems play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Overfishing disrupts these ecosystems, potentially reducing their capacity to sequester carbon and exacerbating climate change. Preserving marine biodiversity through sustainable fishing practices can help combat this global crisis.

9. Habitat Destruction and Bottom Trawling

The fishing technique of bottom trawling involves dragging heavy nets along the seabed, causing extensive habitat destruction. This practice not only depletes fish populations but also damages delicate coral reefs and other essential marine habitats.

10. Loss of Keystone Species: A Domino Effect

Certain marine species, known as "keystone species," play a disproportionately large role in maintaining ecosystem health. The decline of these species due to overfishing can trigger a domino effect, impacting multiple levels of the food chain and compromising the stability of the entire ecosystem.

11. Fishing Subsidies: Fuelling Unsustainable Practices

Government subsidies to the fishing industry can inadvertently encourage overfishing by offsetting operating costs and promoting excessive fishing efforts. Reevaluating and redirecting these subsidies toward sustainable practices is essential to curb overfishing.

12. The Role of Technology in Overfishing

Advancements in fishing technology, while beneficial in some aspects, have also contributed to overfishing. Modern fishing vessels equipped with sophisticated gear can locate and catch fish more efficiently, leading to increased pressure on already vulnerable fish populations.

13. Global Impact: Overfishing as a Transboundary Issue

Overfishing is a transboundary issue that requires international cooperation for effective solutions. Fish do not adhere to geopolitical boundaries, and the actions of one nation can significantly affect fish populations and ecosystems in distant waters.

4. Sustainable Fishing Practices: A Path to Recovery

The implementation of sustainable fishing practices is critical to reverse the damage caused by overfishing. Initiatives such as fishing quotas, marine protected areas, and the use of selective fishing gear can help restore fish populations and protect marine biodiversity.

15. Success Stories: Where Conservation Efforts Thrive

Despite the challenges, there are success stories of effective conservation efforts. By analyzing these cases, we can learn valuable lessons and apply successful strategies to other regions facing similar overfishing issues.

6. Empowering Local Communities: The Role of Stakeholders

Effective fisheries management involves collaboration between governments, fishing communities, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders. Empowering local communities and involving them in decision-making processes are crucial steps toward sustainable fishing practices.

17. Educating Consumers: Making Informed Seafood Choices

As consumers, we have the power to drive change. By making informed choices about the seafood we consume and supporting sustainably sourced products, we can influence the fishing industry's practices and promote responsible fishing.

18. The Role of Technology in Conservation

Technology also plays a significant role in marine conservation. From satellite monitoring to artificial intelligence, innovative tools can aid in tracking fishing activities, enforcing regulations, and collecting crucial data for informed decision-making.

19. Collaboration and International Agreements

Global collaboration and international agreements are essential for combating overfishing effectively. Bodies like the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and regional fishery management organizations work towards creating sustainable fishing policies and promoting responsible fishing practices worldwide.

20. The Future of Our Oceans: A Call to Action

The future of our oceans and marine life hinges on our collective actions. By acknowledging the consequences of overfishing and adopting sustainable practices, we can protect marine biodiversity, preserve ecosystems, and ensure the well-being of future generations.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Causes Overfishing?

Overfishing primarily stems from the increasing demand for seafood, advancements in fishing technology, and inadequate fisheries management and regulations.

2. How Does Overfishing Impact Marine Biodiversity?

Overfishing disrupts marine ecosystems, leading to imbalances in the food chain, loss of biodiversity, and potential ecosystem collapse.

3. Are There Any Benefits to Sustainable Fishing Practices?

Yes, sustainable fishing practices can help restore fish populations, protect marine habitats, and preserve the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.

4. How Can Consumers Contribute to Combat Overfishing?

Consumers can make a difference by choosing sustainably sourced seafood, supporting certified products, and advocating for responsible fishing practices.

5. Why Should Overfishing Be Considered a Global Issue?

Overfishing affects marine life and ecosystems across national boundaries, making it a global issue that requires international cooperation.

6. What Are Some Successful Examples of Overfishing Mitigation?

Countries like Norway and Iceland have successfully managed their fisheries through effective regulations and collaboration with stakeholders.

Conclusion

The Impact of Overfishing on marine biodiversity, ecosystems, and fish populations cannot be overstated. This comprehensive exploration has shed light on the far-reaching consequences of this practice and highlighted the urgent need for sustainable fishing practices. By working together and implementing effective conservation measures, we can safeguard the health and prosperity of our oceans, ensuring a thriving marine environment for future generations.

[allthingsgreengreenliving]

@cocacola Admits It Produces 3.3 Million Tons of New Plastic Packaging Per Year. . "The company had previously refused to release the mind-boggling figure, but finally disclosed the information to The Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a charity that has been campaigning alongside UN Environment to convince governments and the world’s largest plastic producing corporations to commit to reduce and ultimately eliminate unnecessary plastic packaging by 2025." See articles in @forbes @newyorkdailynews @bbc . It is predicted that by the year 2050 there maybe more plastics in the worlds oceans then there are fish. . So why wait?? Make the switch now! . . . . . #plasticpollution #fishpopulations #oceanlife #reduceplasticwaste #theelitesuite #empowersocial #allthingsgreenliving #greenliving #makeachange #ecofriendlyliving #knowbetterdobetter #dontwait #plasticfreeliving #makeanimpact #norwexconsultant #crunchymama #leaveapositivemark #thetimeisnow #oceanpollution #drowninginplastic (at California) https://www.instagram.com/p/BvCaqpLDd-Z/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=19rh0hwplw5p3

#plasticpollution #fishpopulations #oceanlife #reduceplasticwaste #theelitesuite #empowersocial #allthingsgreenliving #greenliving #makeachange #ecofriendlyliving #knowbetterdobetter #dontwait #plasticfreeliving #makeanimpact #norwexconsultant #crunchymama #leaveapositivemark #thetimeisnow #oceanpollution #drowninginplastic

[a-julieanne-universe]

Human Activity on Limiting Factors to Coral Reef!

Limiting Factors:

Some limiting factors to the coral reef are sunlight and temperature which are extremely important to habitats. Due to pollution and climate change caused by human activity, coral reefs have an increased temperature rise and that causes coral to bleach out. Pollution to waters causes transparent water to turn opaque, which makes sunlight almost impossible to reach the coral, and quickly kills it. Climate change is caused by green house gasses absorbing most of suns energy and water then absorbs all the heat, rising the temperature and pollution is from pesticide run-off, fertilizers, industrial chemicals and sewage reaching the oceans from farms or industrial buildings.

How do we affect carrying capacity’s for Coral Reef habitats

When waters are polluted from human activity, corals start to bleach and once they bleach, many fish species die from habitat loss and they lose their hunting ground to catch prey. Here is a carrying capacity graph of Fish Population and coral.

Between 2010 and 2015 we lost 100 hectares obtained by coral reefs due to pollution, coral mining, climate change,etc. which are all caused by human activity. The carrying capacity for fish after losing those hectares of coral is decreased by 60,000 fish in the same amount of time (5years). The fish don’t have those resources to keep their ecosystem sustainable anymore.

#fishpopulation #takeaction #savethecoral