Shivakumar Magada

Title : Fisheries and aquaculture: Fundamental rethinking

Abstract:

Globally, more than one million individuals primarily rely on fish as their main source of animal protein. Additionally, over 800 million people derive their livelihoods from fisheries and aquaculture. In low-income food-deficit countries, where fish often stands as the most affordable and readily available animal-source food, more than one-third of animal protein originates from fish. Fish constitutes approximately 16% of the total animal protein consumed worldwide, contributing to about 6% of the overall protein intake (OECD/FAO, 2021). The world's seafood trade has experienced significant growth over the past decade, driven by increased fish production, rising demand, expanded trade activities, and price escalations. Approximately 90 percent of the world's marine fish stocks are currently either fully exploited or overfished. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for robust regulatory frameworks and effective enforcement in the realm of wild capture fisheries. While the demand for fish continues to grow, aquaculture emerges as a critical solution. However, it's important to note that aquaculture production is currently heavily skewed toward a handful of commercially significant species, such as white leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), salmon, tilapia, and pangasius.

Furthermore, the dominant fish species produced in aquaculture include Chinese carps, catfishes, murrels, channel catfish and others that are primarily consumed within their domestic markets barring export of some portion. This trend has led to the conversion of agricultural lands into aquafarms and the intensification of farming systems. However, the horizontal expansion of aquaculture at the expense of staple food production raises concerns. To ensure sustainable fish production, it is imperative that all stakeholders engage in a fundamental rethinking of their strategies. This paper reviews on sustainable fisheries management, amendment of policies, aquaculture species diversity, implementing responsible practices, and considering the broader implications of fisheries and aquaculture expansion on food security and environmental sustainability.

Key Words: Fisheries, Aquaculture, Fundamental Rethinking, Sustainable Fisheries

Biography:

Dr Shivakumar Magada is a Professor of Aquatic Biology and Former Dean of College of Fisheries, Mangalore, India. He has worked in all the spectrum of education i.e. Teaching, Research and Extension Education (TREE) and in the industry as an aquaculture consultant. His scholarly contributions comprise 15 books, 16 research papers, 52 training programs, 2 international conferences and delivered 379 talks to diverse audiences.
In his three decades of experience, he has handled 28 research projects that have significantly transformed the economy and livelihoods of farmers, unemployed youth, and women. These initiatives have exerted a direct positive influence on the livelihood and the environment.