Decline In Catch Research Articles

Economic assessment and sustainable management of artisanal fisheries: Insights from River Jhelum, Kashmir, India

This study was conducted to comprehensively assess artisanal fishers’ economic and financial viability, relying heavily on a shared resource, namely the River Jhelum. Employing a proportional multi-stage stratified sampling approach, a total of 200 fishers were interviewed across six districts in Kashmir, covering the entire length of the river. The Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) of 1.1, coupled with a positive Net Present Value (NPV), underscores the economic profitability of artisanal fisheries. Constraint analysis highlighted that fishermen express substantial concerns regarding the ongoing decline in both catch and the composition (Garret score: 83) of native fish species, particularly Schizothorax, and pollution in the river (Garret score: 73). Considering the perspectives of all stakeholders, it becomes evident that comprehensive sustainability measures are imperative. To achieve this, multiple stakeholders must collaborate and establish a unified administrative body, solely dedicated to the protection of riverine resources. In addition to implementing a two-month fishing ban and modifying the licensing policy, maintaining a detailed record of daily fish catches, including both biological and economic data, at each fishing site is also crucial. Such actions will facilitate the implementation of optimal exploitation levels for this invaluable inland water resource. Keywords: Constraint analysis, Economic performance, Financial feasibility, Net present value, Schizothorax, Sustainability

Fisheries shocks provide an opportunity to reveal multiple recruitment sources of sardine in the Sea of Japan

The abrupt decline in sardine catches in the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea (SJ-ECS) in 2014 and 2019 and the recovery in the following years call into question the current assumption that sardines in the SJ-ECS form a self-recruiting subpopulation. To test this hypothesis, we analysed otolith stable oxygen and carbon isotope profiles (δ18O, δ13C) of age-0 and age-1 sardines from 2010 and 2013–2015 year-classes captured in the SJ-ECS, as geographic markers for nursery areas. Age-0 sardines generally showed a significant ontogenetic decrease in otolith δ18O from larval to juvenile stages. However, the majority of age-1 captured in spring 2011, 2015 and 2016 showed non-decreasing otolith δ18O profiles, suggesting that the age-0 off the Japanese coast were not the main source of recruitment. Different migration groups were thus indicated: the “locals” growing up off the Japanese coast and the migrating “nonlocals”. The isotope profiles of the “nonlocals” overlapped with those of age-0 captured in the subarctic North Pacific, suggesting that they may be migrants from the Pacific, or perhaps an unobserved northward migration group in the SJ-ECS. Our results highlight the considerable uncertainty in the population structure assumed in current stock assessment models for Japanese sardine.

The vulnerability of fisheries-based livelihoods to climate variability and change in coastal small pelagic fishing communities in Tanzania

Fisheries-based livelihood activities constitute an essential means of income and well-being for the majority living in coastal areas. This paper examines vulnerability of fisheries-based livelihoods caused by climate variability and change. It focuses on three small pelagic fishers’ communities including Kipumbwi, Kilindoni, and Kilwa-Kivinje, along the Tanzanian coast, as a case study. Little research has been done on the effect of climate variability and change on the livelihoods of small-scale fishing communities in developing countries, particularly along the Tanzanian coast. In collecting data, questionnaire, focused group discussion and an interactive governance approach were used. Results showed that the natural vulnerability issues include, reduced catches, and strong winds. Economic vulnerability, mentioned lack of credit facilities. For social vulnerability, respondents mentioned an increased number of fishers and fishing vessels On the aspect of technology, respondents mentioned lack of modern fishing methods. As findings suggest, these vulnerability aspects, are possibly associated with anthropogenic factors such as illegal fishing, may not be related to climate change, but climate change may intensify them. The findings further showed that climate variability has negatively affected the fisheries on which fisher communities depend for income and for food security thus affecting their local economy. Climate change has negatively affected small pelagic fishers. The decline in fish catches and economic- un-matching changes in fish prices have negatively affected the fishing community's income, employment, and food security. The recommended means for reducing vulnerability include reducing taxes and levies, availability of facilities for reducing post-harvesting loss and availability of reliable markets.

Strategi Bertahan Hidup Keluarga Buruh Nelayan di Desa Sondana Kecamatan Bolaang Uki, Kabupaten Bolaang Mongondow Selatan

This study aims to identify the factors, influences, and strategies employed by fishing laborer families in Sondana Village, Bolaang Uki District, South Bolaang Mongondow Regency, to sustain their daily lives. Sondana Village is a coastal area where 15% of the population works as fishermen and heavily depends on marine resources. However, the decline in fish catches and low selling prices have weakened the economic condition of these fishing families. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method with data collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The results reveal that fishing laborer families employ various survival strategies: 1) active strategies, including seeking side jobs and involving family members to earn additional income; 2) passive strategies, such as saving or setting aside part of their income for urgent needs; and 3) network strategies, utilizing relationships with boat owners, the government, relatives, or neighbors to borrow money or receive assistance. This study provides new insights into how fishing laborer families adapt to economic challenges and highlights the importance of social support in their survival strategies.

The dynamics of catching aquatic bioresources in the south of Ukraine: Analysis, challenges and prospects for their solution in the context of sustainable development

Given the significance of fish farming as a promising sector of Ukraine’s agriculture, and the Mykolaiv, Odesa, and Kherson regions are characterised by a significant number of natural and artificial water bodies, the study of aquatic bioresource catching indicators in the south is both important and timely. The research aimed to determine trends in aquatic bioresource catching in southern Ukraine during the period 2018-2023 and to analyse the factors influencing the extraction of aquatic bioresources. This article presents overall catch statistics, as well as catch data for inland waters of the south and aquaculture conditions over the past six years. It has been established that the catch of aquatic biological resources in southern Ukraine has been declining each year from 2018 to 2023. The negative trends in aquatic bioresource catching, both in aquaculture and natural water bodies, are linked to several factors. In particular, the decline in catches has been influenced by: COVID-19; the unstable military and political situation in Ukraine, associated with Russian military aggression; outdated material and technical base of fishing enterprises; lack of government subsidies and foreign investment in the sector; imperfections in the systems of control and regulation of the extraction of aquatic bioresources; and irrational use of the bioproductive potential of water bodies in southern Ukraine. Based on a scientific analysis of the dynamics of aquatic bioresource extraction in southern Ukraine and the identification of key factors contributing to the decline in catches, a set of measures has been developed to positively impact the fishing industry. These measures include: attracting foreign investment in fish farming; improving the quality of monitoring, regulation, and control over aquatic bioresource catching at local, regional, and state levels; restoring critical fish farming infrastructure damaged by Russian aggression; ensuring sustainable fisheries management; and introducing EU best practices into Ukrainian fish farming. The scientific results obtained from this research can be used in practice to ensure the sustainable development of fisheries in southern Ukraine

A Cross-Decadal Change in the Fish and Crustacean Community of Lower Yaquina Bay, Oregon, USA

Natural environmental change, anthropogenic development, and inter-annual variability can affect the ecology of estuarine fish and invertebrates. Yaquina Bay, Oregon, a well-studied estuary, has undergone intense development, as well as deep-draft dredging during the latter half of the 20th century, resulting in the alteration of ~45% of the lower estuary’s natural shoreline. In 1967, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) conducted a 21-month survey of Yaquina Bay to characterize the demersal fishes and epibenthic crustaceans that occupy the bay. From 2003 to 2005, we conducted a 25-month survey to replicate that work and provide a comparative snapshot of the demersal fish and epibenthic crustacean community in the bay. A comparison of the trawl survey datasets reveals a 91% decline in total catch per unit effort (CPUE) between surveys, as well as a decline in multiple measures of biodiversity. Furthermore, the fishes and crustaceans of Yaquina Bay have experienced a shift in species dominance from demersal fishes in the late 1960s to epibenthic crustaceans in the 2000s, marked most notably by a nine-fold increase in the Dungeness crab CPUE. While this work does not establish a causal relationship between changes in the demersal communities of this West Coast estuary and human or natural events, it does document substantial changes in both the diversity and total abundance of animals in that community over a three-plus decade period of development and environmental variability. Hence, this forms a second baseline for continued long-term monitoring.

“I am a Fisher”: Identity and livelihood diversification in Lake Tanganyika Fisheries, Tanzania

Human-environmental interaction is central to natural resources management. This interaction determines how the resource is utilized in a given cultural context. In Lake Tanganyika, evidence indicates a decline in fish catches. Despite this decline, fishers have demonstrated little motivation to leave fishing or diversify. A qualitative study was conducted to explore how identity influenced the phenomenon. Interviews, focus group discussions, and observation were employed to generate data. The findings of this study indicated that interactions between the fishing communities and the Lake generated identity, in which fishers came to identify themselves with the Lake. This identity shaped the fishing practices and influenced the motivation to not leave fishing or diversify. Strong attachment to the Lake and fishing activities contributed to little motivation to leave fishing or engage in other sources of livelihood, especially for old fishers. This was also the case for some young fishers in rural areas of the studied communities. This study concludes that considering how fishers identify with the resource is vital for developing future strategies to improve fisheries management. This may include options to expand. Highlights Identity shapes and influences fishing practices How fishers identify themselves with fisheries resources influences their likelihood to diversify or leave fishing activity It is necessary to consider the role of identity in designing future fisheries management strategies

Decline of Artisanal Fish Catch by Species in the Croatian Section of the Sava River

Abstract The aim of this study is to analyse the development of artisanal fish catch by species in the Croatian section of the Sava River. For Abramis brama and Silurus glanis, a significant decline in catches (in kg) was observed throughout the study period (2004-2021). Since 2013, this has also been the case for Cyprinus carpio, Esox lucius, Sander lucioperca, other autochthonous species and alochthonous species, while catches of Leuciscus idus have declined significantly since 2014. The catches of three species (Acipenser ruthenus, Leuciscus aspius and Tinca tinca) fluctuated without a trend, which can be attributed to the low quantities. This decline in catches of the most sought-after species in the Sava was greater than that of the other less sought-after autochthonous species (mainly other cyprinids), whose share of the total catch increased significantly.

RESEARCH ARTICLE OPEN ACCESS STRATEGI PENGELOLAAN DANAU SEPUNJUNG DESA RANTAU BARU KECAMATAN PANGKALAN KERINCI KABUPATEN PELALAWAN

Sepunjung Lake is a natural lake located in Rantau Baru Village which is a fishing area for the Rantau Baru community, especially for female fishermen who are widows. However, there is currently a decline in fish catches in Lake Sepunjung. This study was conducted to determine the existing condition of the lake, influencing factors, and formulate a management strategy for Lake Sepunjung. The methods used were field observations, interviews and literature studies. The analysis used included analysis for water quality, descriptive analysis and SWOT analysis. The results of this study showed that the ecological condition of Lake Sepunjung is still in the good category, social conditions are good by maintaining local wisdom and minimal conflict, while economic conditions are still relatively low due to the low income of Rantau Baru fishermen. The resulting strategy is the S-O strategy, supporting all strengths and utilizing existing opportunities, by: (1) Establishing Village Regulations in an effort to protect the biophysical quality of lake waters, vegetation cover around the lake, and biodiversity in Lake Sepunjung; (2) Management of ecotourism based on local wisdom; and (3) Development of freshwater fisheries potential.

An overview of the current status of Lake Jipe and its biodiversity dilemma

AbstractLake Jipe, is a shared water resource between Kenya and Tanzania located at the East African Coast is under multiple pressures. The present study assessed the current state of Lake Jipe and its biodiversity dilemma. Random sampling was conducted at 14 sampling points set at equidistant parallel to each other. Sampling depths and location coordinates were measured using Solar Transducer and GPSMAPS® 65 s. In situ water quality parameters were measured using YSI Pro Plus multiparameter; water samples for nutrients analysis were collected and preserved in cooler boxes prior transportation to Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) laboratory for analysis according to ALPHA 2005. Socio‐economic data in relation to status of Lake Jipe ecology were generated using Key Informants Interviews at identified beaches along Kenya and Tanzania. Present findings indicated that the lake has receded from the original 108.72 Km2 to 27.32 Km2 with annual temperatures, dissolved oxygen and conductivity of 28.58 ± 0.95, 5.19 ± 00 and 799.24 ± 69.41, respectively, for dry season. Wet season recorded 31.21 ± 0.31, 4.16 ± 0.01 and 882.44 ± 57.41 for temperature, dissolved oxygen and conductivity, respectively. Agricultural activities have significantly (90%) contributed to the lake levels decline and further affected the lakes' aquatic biodiversity. Among the most affected are the commercially important endemic fish species of the lake of which Oreochromis jipe has experienced the greatest decline. Overfishing, use of illegal unreported and unregulated fishing gears, intensified fishing along protected fish breeding areas as well as poor management and uncoordinated conservation efforts have significantly contributed to the decline of fish catches from 348 kg of O. jipe in 2016 to 90 kg daily catches in 2022. Consequently, the lake is in the verge of extinction if no action is taken. This calls for awareness on the significance of the L. Jipe ecosystems and its immediate and long‐term benefits. Further, there is need to revive and promote alternative economic activities including sustainable aquaculture and agriculture to local communities.

A case study of anchovy diurnal migration patterns in Teluk Bakau, Bintan Regency, Riau Island, Indonesia

Teluk Bakau is an area of water on the shore of Bintan Regency where the people make their livelihoods through fishing. There is now a lot of data showing a decline in catches, but it is unclear why this is happening. Changes in migratory patterns are regarded to be one of the primary reasons. The daily diurnal migratory pattern of anchovies is assumed to correspond with the movement of plankton. Anchovies are a type of tiny fish larvae whose life cycle is tied to plankton. It is possible to see microorganisms by converting the mean volume backscattering strength (MVBS) value into a measure of anchovy quantity and presence. Anchovy diurnal vertical migration was discovered using Diel Vertical Migration (DVM) measurements, which also revealed that the fish were in the MVBS range of -40 dB to -60 dB (e.g. FL: 5–10 cm). The migration of anchovies seen by ADCP shows they typically move towards the surface in the afternoon and that their numbers generally expand until night. Along with this an increase of anchovies, a lot of plankton has been rising to the surface. The presence of an anchovies moves into deeper waters in the early morning, and until daytime, they are decreasingly abundant. An indication that anchovies are increasingly plentiful and more present is in the afternoon

Life history traits and historical comparison of blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou) growth performance from the western Pomo/Jabuka Pits area (central Adriatic Sea)

Although fishing is considered the primary cause of the decline in fish populations, increasing evidence of the significant role of climate change has been provided recently in the Mediterranean Sea, which shows one of the highest warming trends in the world. In this area, the most important environmental driver is represented by the increase in seawater temperature. Though several studies have addressed the effects of sea warming on thermophilic species, little attention has been paid to cold-water species. Among these, blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou) constitutes one of the most important traditional fisheries resources in the northern part of the basin, particularly in the central Adriatic Sea. This area has experienced intense fishing exploitation by the Italian and Croatian fishing fleets. Since 2015, the Pomo/Jabuka Pits area, the fleets’ main fishing ground, has been subject to a series of fishing regulations over time and space. In the present study, we investigated the age structure and growth performance (by means of otoliths) of blue whiting, comparing samples collected during 1985–86 and 2020–21 in the Pomo/Jabuka Pits. Our results show that the 2020–21 blue whiting specimens had a lower length-at-age compared to 1985–86. The asymptotic length estimate decreased from 29 cm TL in 1985–86 to 25 cm TL in 2020–21. The pattern observed might be related to a modification in the cold and dense water formation dynamics in the northern Adriatic Sea, as a consequence of climate change, resulting in higher temperatures and lower nutrient and oxygen exchange, which may have hampered the optimal growth of the species. Moreover, data on the historical trend of landings from the Adriatic Sea reveals a clear decline in catches starting from 2000 onwards. Although the introduction of a fishing ban in the Pomo/Jabuka Pits was an important milestone, the abundance of this species in the area remains at low levels, highlighting a potentially alarming situation for the stock of blue whiting in the central Adriatic Sea.

Perceptions of climate variability and change in coastal Kenya: The case of mangrove-dependent communities in the Lower Tana Delta

Climate change has become a global concern with substantial impacts in all regions, especially coastal communities. In response, coastal communities take different adaptation strategies to minimise the negative impacts of climate change. Understanding climate change from the perspective of local communities can provide valuable insights into policy and strategy planning for the unprecedented consequences of climate change. Data was gathered in three sub-locations through a questionnaire survey (365 households), four (4) focus group discussions (FGDs) and eleven (11) key informant interviews (KIIs). We also explored meteorological data to understand better the local significance of climate variability and climate change. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to analyse the data. The results show that local communities perceived changes in climate variables, consistent with meteorological data, pointing to a significant decline in rainfall and increased temperatures since the 1980s. The communities also highlighted climate-related events such as floods, droughts, saltwater intrusion, and coastal erosion, expressing concern that these were rising. The perceived changes in the climatic variables have led to a decline in crop yields, fish catch, and water quantity, an increase in drought duration and intensity, and plant and animal diseases. Targeted efforts are required, given the likely magnitude of future climate change.

UPAYA TRANSPLANTASI TERUMBU KARANG (Acropora sp.) SEBAGAI REHABILITASI FUNGSI KAWASAN EKOSISTEM TERUMBU KARANG TERDAMPAK TUMPAHAN MINYAK ASPAL DI DESA AFULU KABUPATEN NIAS UTARA

A tanker that was transporting 1,900 tons of raw asphalt into the North Nias Marine Protected Area spilled it, contaminating the ocean up to 50 kilometers away from the North Nias Regency Marine Protected Area. Long-term effects on the coral reef ecosystem are anticipated to build up and result in a decline in fish catches. The community service team works to restore coral reef ecosystem areas utilizing coral reef transplanting technology as a solution to the partners problems. In accordance with the goals of the policy direction of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) number 14 to increase conservation, rehabilitation, and disaster resilience in coastal and marine areas, to establish and develop a group of productive communities through KUB Harapan Wunga Nias Utara. Implementation of activities to solve KUB Harapan Wunga partner problems in Afulu Village, using counseling and simulation approaches carried out holistically. All activities go through four stages, preparation of activities, outreach, delivery of operational tools and materials, field activities simulating the search for coral donors and removing tables coral transplant shelf. The results of the activity were created and delivery of 15 units of transplant racks along with tools and materials which were handed over to community service partners, outreach and field activities attended by the Afulu Village Secretary, head of the Harapan Wunga Kelompok Usaha Bersama (KUB), 10 fishermen and 17 community service team students. The transplant shelf that has been removed at the location will be observed for every 2 weeks by the community service partner. This community service activity has a positive impact and a new understanding for the partners of the Harapan Wunga Kelompok Usaha Bersama (KUB) Afulu Village, Afulu District, North Nias Regency regarding the major influence of the function coral reef ecosystems for the catch of fishermen as well as providing new experience in the application of science and technology (IPTEK) for transplantation coral reefs. The implementation of community service succesfully, partners were very enthusiastic about carrying out coral reef transplantation simulation activities, besides that the role of lecturers and students in applying knowledge about management of conservation area utilization and management of coral reefs as well.

Artisanal Inland Water Fishing and Challenges of Livelihood Sustainability in Ibi Local Government Area, Taraba State Nigeria

This study examined challenges of livelihood sustainability from artisanal inland water fishing activities in Ibi LGA, Taraba State, Nigeria. Descriptive survey design was adopted. Purposive sampling was used in selecting 406 respondents from 12 communities in 6 political wards of the LGA. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse 401 questionnaires retrieved. Findings of the study reveal decline in daily fish catch from three baskets 10 years ago to only one basket presently. Also, income from fishing has declined from ₦150,000 ($192) monthly 10 years ago to less than ₦50,000 ($64) presently. Factors responsible for decline in fish catch include rising water level, temperature increase, pollution, climate change, seasonality and unsustainable fishing practices. The unsustainable fishing practices include use of chemicals, small size nets and mosquito nets in fishing. The results reveal that fishermen engaged in non-fishing activities, fish farming and construction of fishing ponds along the floodplain as a way of achieving livelihood sustainability. Challenges of livelihood sustainability include seasonality of fishing activities, decline in fish stocks, use of traditional fishing methods and unsustainable fishing practices among others. The study recommend the need to enforce extant laws on fishery protection, enlightenment campaign, and government support to fishing cooperatives.

Public perception and acceptance of nutrient supply from factories and sewage treatment plants to mitigate coastal oligotrophication: A case study in Japan

Coastal nutrient management often aims to reduce nutrients to avoid eutrophication; however, nutrient supply (i.e., enrichment) is an emerging issue in the post-eutrophication era when certain areas face oligotrophication. For example, part of Japan's Seto Inland Sea (SIS) faces oligotrophication, causing fish catch decline and bleaching of cultured nori (Piropia yezoensis). Hyogo Prefecture has implemented a nutrient management plan that includes five nutrient supply measures. However, concerns regarding public support for the plan existed because the key measure utilizes factories and sewage treatment plants (FSTP) to supply nutrients that may be associated with the negative preconception of “polluting the coastal sea.” Successful management needs public understanding and support for the measure. Therefore, understanding public perception and contriving measures to gain public support is a critical management issue. Using five online questionnaire surveys in a before–after information design with 3200 residents in Hyogo Prefecture, this study revealed public perception and acceptance of the measures with a focus on nutrient supply from FSTP and discussed management implications. The respondents were unfamiliar with the plan and measures. Contrary to the concerns, the nutrient supply from FSTP was positively perceived and accepted, although it was the least favored in all aspects. A lack of knowledge and misunderstandings led to negative comments, and information provision effectively improved the affective evaluation of the five measures. The respondents with a stronger connection to the SIS tended to have a better knowledge of the oligotrophication of the SIS. Trust in responsible actors varied. Five management implications (i.e., overall support for nutrient supply measures, raising awareness of problems, education, trust building, and strengthening the connectedness of people with nature) were discussed to improve public support for the plan and measures.

Struktura populacije atlantskog plavog raka, Callinectes sapidus na istočnoj obali Jadrana (Hrvatska, Crna Gora)

The Atlantic blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, is a highly invasive species that poses a significant threat to Mediterranean ecosystems. In the last two decades, it has become established in several marine and estuarine areas of the eastern Adriatic Sea, resulting in a decline in commercial catches and damage to fishing gear. This article reviews the current status of blue crab invasion in Montenegro and Croatia and analyses its abundance and population structure. Overall 619 crabs were sampled (male:female ratio, 1:1.91). Both carapace width and weight differed significantly between males and females, with males having a wider carapace and more weight. There was a significant difference in carapace width and weight among sites. For the total population, the mean male and female carapace width was 130.3 ± 30.8 and 108.8 ± 41.4 mm, respectively. In addition, the mean male and female weight was 187.2 ± 85.6 and 132.5 ± 39.1 g, respectively. Coefficient b between the weight and carapace width of blue crabs was significant at all locations, although it varied between males and females. This work will also document the impacts of the blue crab invasion on local ecosystems and provide comprehensive overview of populations structures and shed light on this important aspect of blue crab ecology.

The Use of Rumpon: Fish Aggregate Device (FAD) Made of Artificial Boat for Fishing Activities in Pasar Sorkam Village, Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatera Province

Pasar Sorkam Beach, Binasi Village is an area with many large coastal areas with an area of ​​3.85 km2, with a population of 1262 people and an average livelihood as a fisherman, with a total catch of 40234.7 tons. Based on information from POKMASWAS and temporary fishing groups, there are problems, that is the decline in fish catches due to damage to the ecosystem caused by illegal fishing and fishing that is Harmful to the environment, so that a solution is needed to solve this problem, namely by making fish aggregate device (FAD) called Rumpon that support sustainable fisheries so that it is in line with Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) number 14. The method of implementing this activity is the educational method with demonstrations and counseling through four stages, preparation of activities, field practice, socialization, monitoring and evaluation. The results and discussions obtained were that preparation of activities was carried out after site surveys and literature studies with experience in using Rumpon, construction planning and determining the release of Rumpon, field practice was carried out by releasing Rumpon by all activity participants and accompanied by the Indonesian Navy, the release is intended as a new fishing ground for fishermen, socialization of activities attended by all participants, monitoring and evaluation, monitoring through the head of POKMASWAS, evaluation using a questionnaire with 15 questions about the condition of fishermen, community service activities are conducive and fishing group mitra are very enthusiastic about this activity.

Economic and livelihood impacts of the decline in Indian oil sardine landings in Kerala state, India

Kerala state in the south west coast of India is a significant contributor of Indian oil sardine, and also a major consumer of the fish. Indian oil sardine landings in the state declined from 3,22,103 t in 2011 to a meagre 13,154 t in 2020. In the past decade, ring seiners contributed more than 90 per cent of the Indian oil sardine landings in the state, and the livelihoods of small-scale fishers operating ring seiners were largely affected by the decline. In this context, an analysis was carried out to study the economic impact of oil sardine decline on the marine fisheries sector and its impacts on livelihood of small-scale fishers. The economic impacts were assessed in terms of changes in gross value and inflation at landing centre and retail levels during 2011–2020. A survey was conducted at 500 fisher households to assess the livelihood impacts based on loss of employment, income and alternate livelihood options. The gross value of oil sardine declined from ₹12,562 million to ₹1,710 million at the landing centre level and from ₹22,869 million to ₹2,687 million at the retail level during 2011–2020. The annual income earned by the fish workers declined from ₹335,593 to ₹90,260 due to the decline in oil sardine landings. Likert scale analysis of the fisher’s perceptions indicated climate change, over exploitation and marine pollution as the major causes of catch decline. Sixty five per cent of the respondents strongly supported the actions for the protection of fisher’s livelihood and suggested incentive (80% strongly supported) and regulatory (45% strongly supported) based fisheries management measures for sustaining the small-scale fisher’s livelihood.

Impacts of Illegal Fishing and Ocean Dependence on the Livelihoods of Coastal Fisherfolk in Ghana

This paper investigates illegal fishing practices and their impacts on the livelihoods of small-scale coastalfisherfolk. A qualitative case study approach was employed, consisting of 53 semi-structured interviews withfisherfolk and key stakeholders in the fisheries industry. The results reveal that the use of unapproved nets,chemicals, explosives, detergents, and light fishing, are the main illegal fishing practices. These illegal fishingactivities have resulted in overfishing, decline in fish catch, and the destruction of the marine ecosystem.Fishermen's intensification of light fishing together with the application of chemicals and explosives as alivelihood strategy to avoid decreasing fish catch and low income are unsustainable. Illegal fishing activitiesthreaten the sustainability of coastal fisheries and the livelihoods of fishing households. The implications of thefindings relate to the necessity of reducing illegal fishing practices and rebuilding coastal livelihoods. Werecommend the strict enforcement of fisheries laws related to illegal fishing and the provision of complimentaryjobs during lean fishing season.