Climate changing fish stocks

A KEY UK forum on climate change has confirmed that global warming is already having a major impact on fish stocks.

The Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership, which brings together scientists, government and environmental groups, has reported clear changes in depth, distribution, migration and spawning behavior. Farmed fish are not immune from these changes.

Of key concern is a decline in the abundance of sandeels in the North Sea which has been responsible for collapses in bird populations in Shetland.

The researchers say such species are key to the integrity of the marine food chain, which will be “extensively restructured” as a result of climate change.

The report adds that commercial and vulnerable fish stocks could be protected by closing fishing areas.

Sports fishing could be enhanced with the arrival of species from warmer climes.

However shifting distributions of fish have led to international disagreements such as the dispute with Faroe and Iceland over mackerel and will have implications for fisheries management over international boundaries.

The research was welcomed by Scottish environment secretary Richard Lochhead who said fisheries and aquaculture is worth £1 billion to Scotland’s economy.

UK environment minister Richard Benyon said: “The truth is that climate change is having a big impact on distribution of fish stocks and this is going to present some significant challenges for policy-makers, fisheries managers and for fishing industry itself.

“The government will develop a National Adaptation Plan in response to the Climate Change Risk Assessment in which issues affecting the marine environment will be addressed.”

The 12-page summary report card can be accessed at www.mccip.org.uk/ffa.