Climate change is seriously affecting India’s marine ecosystems and fisheries, say top scientists at a national seminar held in Kochi.
Organised by ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and Institute of Social Sciences, the event focused on how global warming is changing fish behavior, size, and distribution. Dr. Grinson George, Director of CMFRI, shared that popular fish like silver pomfret now mature at 280g instead of 410g, reducing their reproductive capacity. Similar changes are happening in prawns, sardines, and mackerels.
He also warned about the northward migration of species like Indian oil sardine, due to changes in ocean food supply, temperature, and oxygen levels. Cyclones and extreme weather are also reducing fishing days every year.
Dr. K R Sreenath from Fishery Survey of India said coral reef bleaching in Lakshadweep is a major threat to marine life and coastal protection. He stressed the need for better weather prediction and fish stock forecasting.
Dr. K Mohammed Koya, Fisheries Development Commissioner, said seagrass beds in Lakshadweep are damaged, and suggested promoting seaweed farming as a solution that helps both the environment and local livelihoods. He also mentioned that the government’s carbon market policy could reward fishermen for eco-friendly practices.
Experts at the seminar called for community-driven plans, better policies, and nature-based solutions to protect marine ecosystems from climate impacts.
The seminar ends Wednesday and includes discussions on technology, disaster planning, and socio-economic resilience.
