Dungeness crab, Pacific herring, and red abalone are some of the coastal species that are highly vulnerable to climate change. Rising ocean temperatures, acidification, and lack of oxygen in the water pose serious threats to these species.
These changes in the environment won’t just affect the wildlife; they could also harm local economies and cultural practices that depend on healthy fisheries. If these species decline, it can lead to economic difficulties for those who rely on fishing for their income and community traditions.
A recent study titled “A Collaborative Climate Vulnerability Assessment of California Marine Fishery Species” highlights which marine species are at the highest risk from changes in California’s coastal waters. Timothy Frawley, a project scientist at UC Santa Cruz and assistant professor at UC Davis, led this research. The aim is to help the California Department of Fish and Wildlife develop strategies to manage fisheries in a way that is more resilient to climate change.
The findings show that some of California’s most important fisheries, like the Dungeness crab fishery, are among the most vulnerable. For example, this fishery produces over 8,200 tons of crab each year, contributing more than $45 million to local economies. However, other fisheries are struggling; red abalone has been prohibited from fishing since 2018, and the Pacific herring population in San Francisco Bay has fallen by over 75%, forcing many local fishers to leave the trade.
As the climate warms, some species may migrate to cooler waters. This poses a challenge for local fishermen. For instance, while Pacific herring might thrive in other parts of the Northeast Pacific, herring fishermen in San Francisco Bay are directly affected if the fish move hundreds of miles away. This research seeks to consider local impacts when assessing species vulnerability.
The study evaluated 34 different fish and invertebrates, looking at their sensitivity to various factors, including reproduction rates and habitat needs, alongside how much they might be exposed to climate change effects like rising temperatures and oxygen levels. The results revealed that species like Dungeness crab, red abalone, and Pacific herring fall into higher vulnerability categories, largely due to issues like ocean acidification and rising sea levels.
Red abalone, in particular, is a species of concern. It struggles during marine heatwaves and needs stable kelp habitats to survive. With its limited mobility, red abalone is highly susceptible to environmental changes. The closure of its fishery illustrates how vulnerable such species can be, underlining the need for ongoing monitoring and protective measures.
Other fisheries like market squid, which generate approximately $43.9 million annually, are also at risk. Ensuring these valuable fisheries can adapt to climate change requires collaboration between policymakers and the fishing community.
Frawley emphasizes a connection between his experience as a fisherman and his research. He is dedicated to supporting coastal communities by providing them with important information to navigate the uncertainties brought by climate change. While many think of fishing as an independent activity, it actually relies on a complex network of individuals – from fishermen on boats to dock workers, transporters, processors, and scientists. Each plays a crucial role in ensuring sustainable practices.
This study offers important insights for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to help them create adaptive management strategies for fisheries. These may include flexible harvest regulations and real-time population monitoring. With climate shifts already affecting marine conditions, understanding these changes is vital for maintaining fisheries and supporting local economies in the coming years.
This research underscores the urgent need for proactive planning to ensure a future where coastal communities can thrive despite the challenges posed by climate change.
