Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management: Protecting the Future of Forage Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Marine Ecosystems

The growing demand for aquaculture products has put more pressure than ever on the forage fish used to feed certain farmed species. These small fish serve as a crucial component of aquaculture feeds and play a key role in maintaining healthy and diverse marine ecosystems as essential food sources for seabirds, whales, seals, and other important ocean predators. Traditional fisheries management often overlooks the broader ecosystem role of these fisheries, ultimately leading to unsustainable exploitation and reduced biodiversity. Ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM), which requires decision-makers to evaluate success based on the overall health of an ecosystem rather than focusing on a single species. For forage fish, this means balancing the needs of fishers, and ultimately the aquaculture industry, with those of natural predators in aquatic ecosystems. Adopting EBFM could also improve fisheries management substantially by enhancing the resilience of the fish populations the aquaculture industry relies on for feed against growing threats such as climate change. Despite the well-documented advantages of EBFM and extensive research on its implementation, adoption of holistic fisheries management policies has been slow, jeopardizing both ocean ecosystems and global seafood supplies.

This webinar will discuss the importance of forage fisheries and the need for better management practices. These improvements are vital for fishery sustainability and ecosystem protection, aligning with the Global Biodiversity Framework. Collaboration within the industry can promote EBFM adoption in global forage fisheries, ensuring healthy ecosystems and sustainable aquaculture.

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