Biology 316
(2024)
Review & Synthesis
Important Course Themes
Fisheries Biology (science) is a great
example of the important relationship that
exists between basic (fundamental) science
and applied science.
In order to properly manage and
conserve fisheries, we need to know a lot
of basic biology….
When properly managed, wild fisheries
are a renewable resource…
The current situation for many of
the world’s fish populations is very serious, but
science (& technology) in this area has also greatly
improved.
We have the knowledge and understanding
to resolve many of the important issues.
Synthesis…
Global Fisheries, Year 2050
Why not?
The Big Question…
How do we conserve wild fish populations
and also feed the planet?
Commercial Fisheries
Fish are the last wild animals we
harvest to feed the world – this will have to
change – not sustainable.
2050
The Future of Commercial Fisheries
scale
Changes to Commercial Fisheries
• Smaller scale overall
• (no avoiding this – reduce fleet size)
• Remove strong selective pressures for size
• Based on scientifically determined harvest quotas
that are precautionary
• (take into account uncertainty)
• Incentives or legislation to eliminate technology
that destroys habitat (eg trawling)
• More selective & less (dead) bycatch
2050
Marine Protected Areas
Marine Protect Areas
• Need more - 30% of our oceans
• Lots of science, assessment and enforcement needed
for these to understand what is needed for different
species & what works vs not
• Already some positive results showing these can work
Aquaculture
This is where the shortfall to feed the
planet’s growing human population needs
to come from.
Open cage culture in natural
waterbodies
Aquaculture
Inland Recirculating
Systems
Aquaculture
(inland)
• Lots of science & opportunities (growing industry)
• Potential for many new species
• New feeds – science & opportunities
• Aquaponics systems should thrive…lots of challenges,
but lots of potential
• Would lead to an increase in local food production
(close to urban areas)
• Should largely replace commercial harvest of wild
species
Recreational Fisheries
2050
Recreational Fisheries
scale
Recreational Fisheries
• Strive for sustainability through selective harvest &
sound science, assessment and management.
• Important to maintain interest in conserving
aquatic environments
• Potential for increase with habitat improvements
(eg dam removal, restoration of inland habitat)
• Important role in educating youth & connecting
them to aquatic conservation – many future
fisheries biologists!
Hatcheries & Stocking
Reduced role in
enhancement, habitat
mitigation 2050
Hatcheries & Stocking
New roles, re-introductions,
species at risk
Hatcheries & Stocking
• Much better understanding of the impacts and limitations
• Not appropriate as mitigation for habitat destruction
• Much better science in this area regarding genetics &
strategies
• Roles changing from enhancement to re-introductions, re-
habilitation of species at risk, preservation of stocks/strains
etc
Greatest Threats
• Habitat loss & degradation
• Invasive species
• Loss of biodiversity
• Climate change
Greatest Assets
• Better understanding than any other generation
• Better technology to collect information & facilitate
change
• Resiliency of nature
• Informed individuals can influence the seafood
industry by making wise choices.
Seafood Labels
Do you understand them?
Educate yourself and a friend or family member
Consider making a few “wise” choices
END
