Fishermen have counted for generations on the waters of the world's oceans, to provide for their families. A new study in Fisheries magazine, however, warns that 82 species and subspecies of fish may face the threat of future extinction. Over fishing is a worldwide problem that needs to be addressed immediately. Fish populations are in a state of decline across the globe, which is a problem, since worldwide men, women and children eat more fish then any other type of animal protein. Today we will discuss the problems associated with over fishing, why it is happening, and what can be done to see it come to an end.
For the first time in this century, world marine fish catches are declining. To fisheries experts, recent declines are a warning that current levels of exploitation have exceeded the productive limits of many of the world's marine eco-systems. Although a variety of species are severely impacted by fishing, their exploitation can cause irreversible environmental issues as well. In the September 11th, 2003 issue, of Nature magazine, it concludes that over fishing is a primary cause of eco-system destruction. .
Pollution from farms and other development on, or near Chesapeake Bay has generally been considered to be the cause of very high water pollution there. However, further investigation into the matter has shown that over fishing of oysters, which filter the water, in the early 1900's made the eco-system vulnerable. This has resulted in the decline of water quality and introduction of disease into the Bay. While we have seen that over fishing has a major impact on the environment, it can also greatly affect a nations economy. According to an article published at pbs.org last updated on July 27th, 2003, many of the worlds most productive fishing areas are being closed down. After being fished to the verge of commercial extinction, the Grand Banks cod fishery of New Found land and Labrador was closed in 1992.
