Search Results (922)

Understanding the services provided by coastal ecosystems is vital for their study, preservation, and restoration. Mangrove forests, in particular, provide key ecosystem services: they sequester carbon, support fisheries and biodiversity, and facilitate sustainable tourism. In the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico, mangrove-related services have been studied extensively, but often via fragmented approaches. This meta-analysis combines a literature review, bibliometric tools, and thematic mapping to identify emerging trends and long-standing gaps. We analyzed 61 peer-reviewed studies across 21 sovereign states and U.S. states, which highlighted shifting research priorities and a lack of convergence—defined herein as the failure of individual studies to examine multiple ecosystem service categories (regulating, cultural, supporting, and provisioning) simultaneously to assess potential trade-offs. While early research emphasized supporting services such as fishery nurseries, recent studies focus on regulating services, especially carbon sequestration. Stakeholder engagement remains limited, with only 18% of studies incorporating local perspectives. We argue for greater integration of stakeholder input and convergence across service categories to enhance the scientific basis for mangrove management and policy design. Full article

The construction of reservoirs has undeniably provided numerous conveniences and benefits to human societies. However, it has also markedly altered downstream flow regimes, leading to essential fish habitat loss that directly undermines the ecosystem services provided by fish populations, thereby jeopardizing the long-term sustainability of fishery resources. Existing assessments of spawning suitability largely concentrate on static characteristics of available spawning grounds, while the dynamics of habitat suitability migration and contraction in response to changing environmental flows remain poorly understood. To address this gap, we classified hydrological years into wet, flat, and dry categories to reflect the varying environmental flow requirements during the fish-spawning period. Using the Mike21 hydraulic model together with a spatial suitability analysis for spawning habitats, we quantified spawning ground suitability from both temporal and spatial perspectives. Taking the four major Chinese carps (FMCC) and the Dongta spawning ground in the Pearl River as a case study, our findings reveal that the proportion of highly suitable habitats closely tracks the environmental-flow trajectories. Throughout the FMCC spawning period, the spatial pattern of high suitability zones undergoes a marked migration in response to flow variations across wet, flat, and dry years, consistently shifting upstream. Specifically, as discharge rises from low-flow to high-flow events, the most suitable areas move from downstream deep-pool sections toward upstream shallow riffle zones, which is crucial for the sustainable development of fishery resources. Full article

Artificial reefs are an important tool for marine ecological restoration and fishery resource proliferation, and are widely used around the world. Among them, Japan, the United States, China, South Korea, Australia, and the Mediterranean coastal countries have particularly invested in scientific research and practice in this field, and the reefs’ material selection, structural performance, and ecological benefits have attracted much attention. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the preparation methods, characterization methods (such as microstructure analysis and mechanical tests) and mechanical properties (such as compressive strength and durability) of new concrete materials (steel slag-blast furnace slag concrete, oyster shell concrete, sulfoaluminate cement concrete, recycled brick concrete, silica fume concrete, and banana peel filler concrete) that artificial reefs and ceramic artificial reefs developed in recent years, and to explore the resource utilization potential of different waste materials. At the same time, the biostatistical methods (such as species abundance and community diversity) of wood, shipwreck, steel, rock, waste tire, and ordinary concrete artificial reefs and their effects on the marine environment were compared and analyzed. In addition, the potential impact of artificial reef deployment on local fishermen’s income was also assessed. It is found that the use of steel slag, blast furnace slag, sulfoaluminate cement, and silica fume instead of traditional Portland cement can better improve the mechanical properties of concrete artificial reefs (compressive strength can be increased by up to 20%) and reduce the surface pH to neutral, which is more conducive to the adhesion and growth of marine organisms. The compressive strength of oyster shell concrete and banana peel filler concrete artificial reef is not as good as that of traditional Portland cement concrete artificial reef, but it still avoids the waste of a large amount of solid waste resources, provides necessary nutritional support for aquatic organisms, and also improves its chemical erosion resistance. The deployment of artificial reefs of timber, wrecks, steel, rock, waste tires, and ordinary concrete has significantly increased the species richness and biomass in the adjacent waters and effectively promoted the development of fisheries. Cases show that artificial reefs can significantly increase fishermen’s income (such as an increase of about EUR 13 in the value of a unit effort in a certain area), but the long-term benefits depend on effective supervision and community co-management mechanisms. This paper provides a scientific basis for the research and development of artificial reef materials and the optimization of ecological benefits, and promotes the sustainable development of marine ecological restoration technology and fishery economy. Full article

Coastal lagoons are highly vulnerable to human and climatic pressures, yet long-term ecological changes remain poorly quantified. We analyzed four decades (1980–2020) of data from fisheries from six lagoons in the Amvrakikos Gulf, Greece, using ecological indicators to assess trophic structure, exploitation status, and ecosystem responses. Cluster analysis of species level fishery production revealed a distinct temporal regime shift in the late 1990s–early 2000s, reflecting a major reorganization of species contributions to total yield. Mean total yield (Y), showed a consistent declining trend across lagoons, ranging from 2.7 ± 2.0 to 7.2 ± 5.0 t km⁻². Primary Production Required (PPR) declined (0.8–1.5 × 10¹⁰g C km⁻² yr⁻¹), while Mean Temperature of the Catch (MTC) increased in five lagoons (19.0–21.4 °C) and remained stable in one (20.0 ± 0.9 °C). Pelagic to demersal (P/D) ratios generally decreased (0.09–1.26), and Q-90 values were variable (0.8–2.2), highlighting site specific ecological dynamics. Short term yield predictions for 2021–2025 ranged from 0.78 to 6.75 t km⁻², remaining comparable to recent historical levels, while the estimated carrying capacities varied from 1.79 to 9.11 t km⁻², reflecting contrasting exploitation states among lagoons. These results demonstrate that multi-indicator, fishery-based analyses provide a robust framework for quantifying ecological change and guiding adaptive management in lagoon ecosystems. Full article

The temperate Himalayan states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh in India face unique agro-ecological challenges across agriculture and allied sectors, including pest and disease pressures, inefficient resource use, post-harvest losses, and fragmented supply chains. This review systematically examines 21 critical problem areas, with three key challenges identified per sector across agriculture, agricultural engineering, fisheries, forestry, horticulture, sericulture, and animal husbandry. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) interventions, including computer vision, predictive modeling, Internet of Things (IoT)-based monitoring, robotics, and blockchain-enabled traceability, are evaluated for their regional applicability, pilot-level outcomes, and operational limitations under temperate Himalayan conditions. The analysis highlights that AI-enabled solutions demonstrate strong potential for early pest and disease detection, improved resource-use efficiency, ecosystem monitoring, and market integration. However, large-scale adoption remains constrained by limited digital infrastructure, data scarcity, high capital costs, low digital literacy, and fragmented institutional frameworks. The novelty of this review lies in its cross-sectoral synthesis of AI/ML applications tailored to the Himalayan context, combined with a sector-wise revenue-loss assessment to quantify economic impacts and guide prioritization. Based on the identified gaps, the review proposes feasible, context-aware strategies, including lightweight edge-AI models, localized data platforms, capacity-building initiatives, and policy-aligned implementation pathways. Collectively, these recommendations aim to enhance sustainability, resilience, and livelihood security across agriculture and allied sectors in the temperate Himalayan region. Full article

Marine protected areas (MPAs) are crucial for marine ecosystems, but they often pose significant challenges for the local fishing communities that rely on these ecosystems for their livelihoods. Identifying approaches that maintain ecological integrity while improving community livelihoods and well-being has become a central issue in marine sustainability. This study investigates the adaptive livelihood strategies of a community on Qi’ao Island, located in China’s Pearl River Estuary, which has gradually transitioned from traditional fisheries to tourism-induced livelihoods. Based on Actor–network theory (ANT), we developed a multi-level approach to examine interactions between human and non-human actors, institutions, and policies during livelihood adaptation. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining semi-structured interviews (n = 47), extended field observation, and policy analysis. Computational text analysis techniques included word frequency analysis, sentiment analysis, and co-occurrence network analysis using Python 3.8. These were integrated with thematic analysis and coding conducted in NVivo 15. This study demonstrates that the sustainability of tourism-based livelihood adaptation depends on equitable benefit sharing, flexible governance, and sustained community participation. Theoretically, this research extends livelihood studies by demonstrating how ANT captures the relational and processual dynamics of adaptation. Practically, it offers policy-relevant insights for designing adaptive and participatory governance strategies that reconcile conservation objectives with community well-being in MPAs. Full article

The Northwestern Indian Ocean (NWIO) serves as a primary fishing ground for tuna longline fisheries, with bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) and yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) constituting the main target species. Investigating their spatiotemporal distribution and relationship with environmental factors is of significant importance for fishery management and fishing. This study analyzed and compared the distribution patterns and environmental preferences of these two species across different depth layers, based on fisheries scientific survey data collected during the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 fishing seasons. Key findings include: The hook rate in 2023/2024 was higher than in 2024/2025, and the hook rate for T. obesus exceeded that of T. albacares. T. obesus were predominantly concentrated within 63° E–69° E and 7° N–9° N, while T. albacares exhibited a broader yet more dispersed distribution range. T. obesus primarily occupied depth layers of 130–140 m (12.20%), 180–190 m (9.76%), and 270–280 m (9.76%). T. albacares were mainly found at 110–120 m (15%), 140–150 m (15%), and 200–210 m (15%). Both species exhibit distinct spatial clustering patterns, and their hotspot distribution areas are, respectively, 63° E–69° E, 5° N–10° N and 64° E–68° E, 0° N–4° N. Correlation analysis revealed significant relationships between T. obesus distribution and latitude, zooplankton abundance, water temperature at various depths, and chlorophyll a concentration. Our research provides reference for understanding the distribution of T. obesus and T. albacares across different water layers and their habitat preferences, laying a scientific foundation for achieving sustainable utilization of both species. Full article

To align with disaster monitoring and sustainable risk assessment, the low-carbon transition of fisheries necessitates comprehensive carbon emission management throughout the supply chain. As China advances supply-side structural reform, transitioning from traditional to low-carbon fisheries is vital for the green development of the industry and its associated sectors. This study employs input–output models and LMDI decomposition to examine the trends and drivers of embodied carbon emissions within China’s fishery production system from 2010 to 2019. By constructing a cross-sectoral full-emission accounting system, the research calculates total direct and indirect emissions, exploring how accounting scopes influence regional responsibility and reduction strategies. Empirical results indicate that while China’s aquatic trade and processing have steadily developed, the sector remains dominated by low-value-added primary products. This structure highlights vast potential for deep processing development amidst shifting global dietary habits. Factor decomposition reveals that economic and technological development are the primary drivers of carbon emissions. Notably, technological progress within fisheries emerges as the most significant factor, playing a pivotal role in both driving and potentially mitigating emissions. Consequently, to effectively lower carbon intensity, the study concludes that restructuring the fishery industry is crucial. Promoting low-carbon development and enhancing the R&D of green technologies are essential strategies to navigate the dual challenges of industrial upgrading and environmental protection. Full article

This study examined the seasonal and size-related variations in the diet composition and feeding strategies of the robust tonguefish Cynoglossus robustus collected in the Yeosu Coast, Korea, from January to December 2024. Stomach content analysis identified amphipods, polychaetes, and brachyurans as the dominant prey items. Ontogenetic dietary shifts were evident, with individuals < 25 cm TL feeding mainly on amphipods, whereas larger individuals consumed more polychaetes and brachyurans, indicating a shift toward larger and more energy-efficient prey with growth. Amphipods, with Ampelisca sp. being predominant, were predominant in spring and summer, whereas crabs and polychaetes increased in autumn and winter, respectively. Seasonal variation was attributed to environmental factors and post-spawning feeding recovery. The estimated trophic level (3.22) suggests that C. robustus functions as a mesopredator consuming benthic invertebrates and plays an essential role in energy transfer within the coastal benthic ecosystem. These findings provide fundamental ecological insights into the trophic structure of the coastal ecosystem in the southern sea of Korea and serve as a scientific basis for sustainable fisheries resource management. Full article

Fatty liver in fish is characterized by excessive lipid accumulation, driven by factors such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and the overexpression of lipid-related genes. This condition can lead to metabolic dysfunction and reduced disease resistance, resulting in growth disorders and even mortality. Increasing incidence of fatty liver is closely linked to environmental conditions and feeding practices, posing significant challenges to the aquaculture industry. This paper offers a comprehensive overview of hepatic steatosis, with a particular emphasis on fish species. Through a detailed review of various scholarly works, this paper seeks to identify common patterns, emerging trends, and measurable correlations, highlighting the critical importance of understanding this complex relationship. The study of fatty liver is conducted across three dimensions: influencing factors, underlying mechanisms, and potential solutions. Currently, numerous factors contribute to the development of fatty liver, such as feed composition and environmental temperature. On a mechanistic level, the research explores lipid accumulation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and related processes. Furthermore, the paper suggests various solutions and preventive strategies, including considering environmental adaptability during animal migration, employing genetic enhancement techniques, modifying feeding practices, investigating the Nrf2 pathway, and utilizing rapamycin. These findings have significant implications for fisheries management and aquaculture practices, providing valuable insights to enhance sustainability in the industry. Full article

Blue economy aims to bring prosperity to coastal communities whilst also protecting natural ocean resources for future generations. But how can this vision be put into practice, especially in communities in which dependence on natural resources is high, and food and livelihood security are key concerns? This paper examines two cases of community-led nature-based enterprise in Kenya in a search for solutions to this challenge: fisheries reform through market access and gear sustainability; mangrove forest conservation and community development using carbon credit revenues. I use a ‘diverse economies framework’ for the first time in blue economy contexts to delve into the heterogeneous relations at work and in search of insights that can be applied in multiple contexts. Analysed through key informant interviews and field observation, the cases reveal a complex assemblage of institutions, knowledges, technologies, and practices within which enterprises operate. Whilst the enterprises featured are still relatively new and developing, they suggest a direction of travel for a community-led sustainable blue economy that both supports and benefits from nature recovery. The insights gained from this diverse economies analysis lead us to appreciate a sustainable blue economy as a rediscovered and reinvigorated relationship of reciprocity between society and nature—one that nurtures place-based nature-based livelihoods and nature recovery together, and which embodies a set of values and ethics shared by government, communities, and business. Full article

Fisheries bycatch, while representing a major ecological concern due to the incidental capture of non-target species, also constitutes an underexplored source of marine biomass with biotechnological potential. This study aimed to generate and characterize bioactive peptides from the muscle tissue of three common bycatch species from the Brazilian coast: Paralonchurus brasiliensis, Micropogonias furnieri, and Hepatus pudibundus. Muscle homogenates were hydrolyzed using either Alcalase or Protamex to produce peptide-rich hydrolysates, which were analyzed through SDS-PAGE, HPLC-UV, MALDI-TOF, and LC-MS/MS. De novo sequencing and bioinformatic analyses predicted bioactivities that were subsequently validated by in vitro assays. The results demonstrated that enzyme selection strongly influenced both peptide profiles and bioactivity. The Protamex hydrolysate of P. brasiliensis (PBP) exhibited potent antifungal activity, inhibiting Candida albicans growth by 81%, whereas the Alcalase hydrolysate (PBA) showed moderate inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus (29%). No significant effect was observed against Escherichia coli. Overall, this study highlights a sustainable strategy for the valorization of fisheries bycatch through the production of bioactive marine peptides and identifies P. brasiliensis hydrolyzed with Protamex as a promising source of anti-Candida peptides for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. Full article

We argue that a multidisciplinary approach is essential to identify deoxygenation impacts on marine ecosystems and fisheries, bridging across the traditionally separate fields of oceanography and economics. Oceanography reveals physical and chemical drivers of deoxygenation, and assesses potential biological impacts based on the physiological and ecological characteristics of organisms and communities. Economics identifies the consequences of human activities associated with the utilization of the changing ocean, particularly in relation to deoxygenation. Economic data, models and analysis can contribute to determining the future directions toward achieving a healthy ocean in the context of deoxygenation. However, differing perspectives on the value of the ocean may lead to conflicts between short-term economic gains and long-term sustainability. Uncertainties in fish populations and deoxygenation modeling add complexity. Despite the difficulties involved, the interdisciplinary view of economics and oceanography offers a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities of ocean deoxygenation and its impacts on both the ocean and people. In order to address the challenges posed by deoxygenation and its impacts, and to develop mitigation and adaptation strategies, it is essential to establish a strong collaboration between experts of oceanography and fisheries economics. Full article

Agricultural listed companies are key nodes in the agricultural industry chain, providing capital, technology and market access to upstream producers and downstream processors. When these firms face delisting risk, the resilience and sustainability of the industry chain are threatened. Using data from 897 observations of Chinese A-share listed companies in the agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, and fishery sector over 2010–2021, this study links multidimensional firm vulnerability to subsequent delisting risk. We construct 30 internal and external indicators covering financial performance, innovation input, supply chain concentration, government support and market competitiveness. Clustering method is applied to capture heterogeneity in firms’ multidimensional structural, gradient boosting models are used to predict ST (Special Treatment) status within three years, and SHAP analysis is used to identify the main risk. The results show that a small subset of firms with high leverage, tight liquidity, weak profitability, insufficient innovation, and highly concentrated key customers and suppliers accounts for most ST cases. Strengthening capital buffers, diversifying critical supply-chain relationships, and maintaining stable innovation investment are thus crucial for reducing delisting risk and enhancing the resilience of agricultural listed companies. Full article

Small pelagic fish, including sardines, are essential to global fisheries and aquaculture feed production. However, these species are increasingly exposed to intense exploitation. In Chile, the common sardine (Strangomera bentincki), endemic to the Humboldt Current System, supports major industrial and artisanal fisheries. Landings are expected to reach 300,000 tons by 2025, mostly for fishmeal production. As a keystone species, S. bentincki is highly sensitive to environmental variability during early development, which can reduce recruitment and threaten long-term population sustainability. This interdisciplinary approach integrates ecological and biotechnological perspectives to assess the feasibility of controlled juvenile sardine production in land-based Ecological Aquaculture (EA) systems, including Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), which are designed to reduce environmental impacts. These systems enable precise control of temperature, feeding regimes, and water quality, facilitating investigations into larval and juvenile survival, growth performance, and physiological responses under variable thermal and nutritional conditions. Emphasis is placed on fatty acid metabolism during ontogeny, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are essential for somatic growth, reproductive development, and thermal tolerance. Developing standardized protocols for juvenile S. bentincki culture addresses key gaps in husbandry and physiology (temperature threshold, nutrient density, larval growth rate, etc.) while introducing a novel ecological–aquaculture integration framework. This approach links early-life ecology with applied rearing techniques to support stock enhancement, strengthen artisanal fisheries, and promote sustainable aquaculture diversification under increasing environmental variability. Full article