Kochi, July 10: The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has issued a warning that Al Nino may impact sardine fishing next year. While the stock of Indian oil sardines is abundant this year, CMFRI predicts a significant decline in sardine availability by 2027 due to Al Nino. Rising sea temperatures and marine heatwaves could jeopardize fish production along the Indian coast.
Dr. Grinson George, director of CMFRI, raised this concern during the National Fisherman Day celebrations at the institute. He indicated that the heat associated with Al Nino is expected to intensify between October and December this year, with effects likely felt in the northern Indian Ocean by April-May 2027.
Despite the current abundance of oil sardines, Dr. George warned that projected temperature increases could adversely affect this resource in 2027. Small pelagic fish, particularly oil sardines, are highly sensitive to marine heatwaves and rising ocean temperatures.
He cautioned that the anticipated temperature rise could lead to a drastic decline in marine fish production, impacting both the fishing industry and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Highlighting climate forecasts, he noted that available scientific data indicates a high likelihood of marine heatwaves, increased sea surface temperatures, and salinity spikes during April and May next year. The impact of these changes will not be limited to sardines alone.
Continuous increases in ocean temperatures could harm delicate coral reef ecosystems, potentially leading to coral bleaching and a decline in species associated with coral reefs, such as red snapper.
To assist fishing communities in adapting to changing conditions, CMFRI announced that it will begin issuing Al Nino-related advisories to fishermen and aquaculturists by the end of this year. This initiative aims to help them make informed decisions regarding fishing and aquaculture practices.
Aquaculturists have also been advised to prepare for sudden environmental changes. Dr. George emphasized that prolonged high temperatures and salinity, followed by heavy rainfall, could cause rapid fluctuations in salinity levels, disrupting coastal fisheries and increasing the risk of production losses.
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