Climate Change and Fisheries Resources: A Review of Ecological, Economic, and Livelihood Impacts

Authors:

Swathi

Assistant Professor, School of Management, CMR University, Bangalore¹

Research Scholar, Department of Economics, Mangalore University²

Abstract

Climate change has emerged as one of the most significant threats to global marine ecosystems and fisheries resources. Rising sea surface temperatures, ocean acidification, sea-level rise, marine heatwaves, and extreme climatic events have altered fish distribution, productivity, breeding cycles, and marine biodiversity across the world. Fisheries contribute substantially to global food security, nutrition, employment, and economic development, especially in developing countries such as India. However, climate-induced environmental changes are increasingly affecting fish catch potential, species migration, coastal livelihoods, and marine ecosystem sustainability. This review article critically examines the evolution of climate change impacts on fisheries over the years using recent global and Indian evidence. The paper synthesizes scientific reports, FAO assessments, IPCC findings, and recent fisheries statistics to analyze ecological and socio-economic consequences. The study further discusses adaptation strategies, policy interventions, and future sustainability challenges in fisheries management.

Keywords: Climate change, fisheries resources, marine ecosystems, ocean warming, fish production, India, marine biodiversity, fisheries management.