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. 19/10/2024 4:22 PM
A recent study published on October 16, 2024, in Science Advances highlights a troubling trend: the increasing demand for farmed salmon is making it increasingly difficult for coastal communities to access affordable fish. Led by Patricia Majluf from Cayetano Heredia University, the research investigates the use of small fish, known as forage fish, in the production of fishmeal and fish oil (FMFO) for aquaculture.
Reduction fisheries target small fish species, such as anchovies and sardines, specifically for conversion into fishmeal and fish oil rather than for direct human consumption. These fisheries represent a significant portion of the global fish catch, with 12 of the world’s top 20 fisheries focused on these small species. Among them, the Peruvian anchoveta stands out as a major contributor, primarily used for producing FMFO. This reliance on reduction fisheries poses challenges for local communities that depend on these fish as a vital food source.
Many impoverished coastal communities rely on small fish for both nutrition and their livelihoods. However, the increasing diversion of these fish to feed farmed species like salmon has left these communities struggling to secure an affordable source of protein. As local fish become less accessible due to their use in aquaculture, these communities face rising food insecurity.
The Fish-in-Fish-out (FIFO) ratio is a crucial metric that measures the amount of wild fish needed to produce farmed fish. The study highlights a lack of transparency within the aquaculture industry regarding the true amount of wild fish, such as anchoveta, required to feed farmed species, especially carnivorous fish like salmon. While industry claims suggest a reduction in fishmeal use in feeds, the demand for fish oil remains high, particularly for farmed salmon, which is consumed in large quantities globally.
The effects of climate change are exacerbating the challenges in maintaining healthy fish populations, especially for critical species like the Peruvian anchoveta. Overfishing, particularly the capture of young fish before they can reproduce, is further threatening these populations. This situation has prompted some feed producers to explore alternative sources, including fish species that are typically intended for human consumption, to sustain the supply of fish oil.
To address these pressing issues, the study recommends that the aquaculture industry seek alternatives to fishmeal and fish oil in fish feeds. Transitioning to more sustainable feed options would not only help make fish farming more environmentally friendly but also ensure that coastal communities can continue to rely on fish as an essential food source. Improving the sustainability of fish feeds is critical for both protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring that vulnerable communities have access to affordable fish.
In conclusion, the rising demand for farmed salmon poses significant challenges for coastal communities, highlighting the need for sustainable practices within the aquaculture industry. By prioritizing alternatives to fishmeal and fish oil, we can work towards a more equitable and environmentally responsible approach to fish farming.
