Aquaculture Kills More Wild Fishes Than Previously Thought, Study Finds

A recent study conducted by scientists from the University of Miami, Oceana, and New York University has found that the impact of aquaculture on wild fishes is significantly greater than previously believed. The research, published in Science Advances, indicates that the ratio of wild fish inputs to farmed fish outputs is between 27% and 307% higher than previous estimates. Particularly concerning is the high protein output required from wild-caught fishes to sustain carnivorous species such as salmon, trout, and eel.

The study also highlights various overlooked sources of wild-caught fishes in aquaculture feed, as well as collateral fishing mortality and other unsustainable practices within the industry. While aquaculture has become a billion-dollar industry responsible for half of all fishes consumed by humans, the authors emphasize the need for more research to fully understand its environmental impact. They caution against expanding the sector without thorough consideration of its sustainability implications.