Marine high temperature extremes amplify the impacts of climate change on fish and fisheries

• DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abh0895
• Publication Date: 2021-10-01T18:00:22Z
• Authors: William W. L. Cheung; Thomas L. Frölicher; Vicky W. Y. Lam; Muhammed A. Oyinlola; Gabriel Reygondeau; U. Rashid Sumaila; Travis C. Tai; Lydia C. L. Teh; Colette C. C. Wab...
• Keywords: Fish stock; Fisheries science; Marine ecosystem

Extreme temperature events have occurred in all ocean basins the past two decades with detrimental impacts on marine biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and services. However, global of extremes fish stocks, fisheries, dependent people not been quantified. Using an integrated climate-biodiversity-fisheries-economic impact model, we project that, average, when annual high extreme occurs exclusive economic zone, 77% exploited fishes invertebrates therein will decrease biomass while maximum catch potential drop by 6%, adding to decadal-scale mean under climate change. The net negative stocks are projected cause losses fisheries revenues livelihoods most maritime countries, creating shocks social-ecological systems particularly climate-vulnerable areas. Our study highlights need for rapid adaptation responses temperatures addition carbon mitigation support sustainable development.