Black Sea fish populations decline linked to climate change, overfishing

Rising sea temperatures and human activities have triggered a dramatic decline in Black Sea fish populations, with anchovies being the most affected

The Black Sea is experiencing a significant decline in fish populations, primarily due to rising temperatures and human activities, professor Dr. Coşkun Erüz says.

The increase in sea temperatures is a consequence of climate change and adversely affects the growth, reproduction and development processes of various fish species, particularly anchovies.

As the Black Sea warms up, fish have started migrating southward in search of cooler waters. “Changes in water temperature significantly impact the behavior of fish and other living things. As the temperature rises, fish are not seen in the expected location,” explained Eruz, as reported by Hürriyet.

This phenomenon is not just about the migration of fish to different areas. The Black Sea is also witnessing a phenomenon termed “Mediterraneanization,” where Mediterranean species that can tolerate higher salinity levels invade the Black Sea. These invasive species are gradually replacing the native fish populations.

The decline in fish species is not solely attributable to climate change. “In addition to climate change, there are serious and large declines in the amount of fish due to overfishing and pollution,” Erüz said. He highlights the stark decrease in the variety of fish species in the Black Sea, with a drop from 160 species to only about four to five that are viable for fishing.

Source: Newsroom