EMS- Oceans and fisheries, page no 131

Overexploitation particularly affects long-lived fish species such as redfish (Sebastes marinus) which take several years to reach maturity and begin spawning. In extreme cases, it may even lead to the depletion of the stock.

Impact of Ocean Exploitation on Fisheries:

• Overfishing:

  Catching more fish than can naturally replenish, leading to population declines.

Consequences: Collapse of fish populations (e.g., Atlantic cod).

Imbalanced marine ecosystems, altering predator-prey dynamics.

• Bycatch:

  Unintentional capture of non-target species (e.g., dolphins, turtles, seabirds).

Consequences: High mortality rates for endangered species.

Disruption of marine food chains.

Wasted resources—many bycaught animals are discarded dead.

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