How Overfishing and Climate Change Are Disrupting Ocean Life
Article by- M.B. Salik, Gwadar, Translation- Ayaz Iqbal
Nature has gifted Earth as a home for humankind, filled with countless resources. Among these are the oceans and rivers, vast habitats where aquatic species thrive in a delicate balance with water temperature and marine ecosystems. Fish and other marine life live among seaweed, coral reefs, mangroves, and deep-sea zones, adapting to various temperature zones. These environments not only offer shelter but are essential breeding and nursery grounds for aquatic species.
Over 50% of the global population relies on marine life as a major food source. However, human greed has led to unsustainable fishing practices. Many people use harmful and untraditional fishing equipment to maximize profits, unaware that they are destroying their own livelihoods. Excessive fishing, especially with toxic or illegal gear, is not only depleting fish stocks but also damaging the marine ecosystem.
Additionally, climate change is altering ocean temperatures, which affects the natural distribution and behavior of fish. These changes, combined with overexploitation, are accelerating the decline of many fish species.
The situation is worsened by pollution from industries, homes, hotels, and sewage systems. Toxic waste from these sources is mixing with seawater, destroying once-clear marine habitats. Large oil-carrying ships also release harmful chemicals into the ocean, further contaminating the ecosystem. As a result, many fish species have either vanished or are on the brink of extinction. This isn’t just an environmental tragedy, it’s a serious threat to food security for millions of people.
There’s a saying that the sea is to a fisherman what land is to a farmer. But when harmful fishing nets are used recklessly, both the livelihood of fishermen and the health of the ocean are at risk. These destructive practices have led to job losses, environmental degradation, and the collapse of sustainable fish populations.
Yet, there’s still time to act. We must reflect on our actions and understand the effects of climate change, overfishing, and toxic gear. The decline of fish populations, the loss of biodiversity, and growing threats to food security call for a shift toward sustainable and traditional fishing methods.
We must also protect our marine environment by keeping it clean and respecting nature’s balance. Disturbing this balance could lead to complex challenges not just for aquatic life, but for humans as well.
Published in Gwadar Press Club.