Changing the narrative and perspective surrounding marine fish

Abstract

Fish are essential components of the ocean carbon sink. Therefore, the carbon functions of fish should be incorporated into marine policies and management of carbon stocks in coastal and marine ecosystems, as well as sustainable fisheries. However, while there are ecosystem-based approaches to fisheries management that consider the impacts of fisheries on fish populations, habitats and environmental functioning, the focus remains on achieving maximum sustainable yield from the fish resource. Similarly, current approaches to blue carbon management focus on the conservation and restoration of coastal wetlands for the carbon they contain, mostly ignoring fish. We challenge these prevailing views and strategies and outline the different roles of fish in marine ecosystems and the risks posed by current approaches to blue carbon management and fisheries. We aim to contribute to a change in perspective and strengthen new approaches to ocean-climate regulation. To do so, we draw on the latest literature to show how fish are critical for carbon storage, sequestration (i.e., stored for 100 years or more), nutrient transfer, habitats and ecosystem function - all factors that are crucial for ocean productivity and ultimately sustain fisheries. On this basis, we argue that fish populations need to be considered as more than just a commodity to avoid carbon mismanagement, habitat loss, ecosystem collapse and food insecurity. We conclude by identifying ways in which science and policy can better integrate fish carbon functions into blue carbon management and fisheries management.