Southeast Asia’s Small-Scale, Multispecies Fisheries Thrive Despite Global Overfishing Trends
For decades, experts have warned about the dangers of overfishing, biodiversity loss, and declining fish stocks. However, a new study reveals that Southeast Asia’s capture fisheries have remained resilient, maintaining biodiversity and ecological health while sustaining the region’s growing population.
Resilience of Southeast Asian Fisheries
A study published in Fisheries Science by Professor Matsuishi Takashi Fritz from the Faculty of Fisheries Sciences at Hokkaido University explores why Southeast Asia’s fisheries defy global overfishing trends. The research highlights key factors that contribute to the region’s sustainable fisheries model and provides insights for global fisheries management.
Over the past 30 years, Southeast Asia has seen a steady rise in fishery production, ranking among the highest globally. Although production levels plateaued after 2018, the region continues to outperform many others.
A Unique Small-Scale Fishing Model
Despite high production levels, Southeast Asia’s fisheries exhibit low productivity per fisher, ranking as the second lowest globally. This is due to the high number of individuals engaged in fishing—3.4 times the global average. Many of these are small-scale, artisanal fishers who rely on fishing for local communities and family sustenance. With the highest dependence on aquatic foods for protein, the region benefits from a decentralized, community-driven fishing model.
One of the study’s key findings is that Southeast Asia has a significantly higher proportion of underfished stocks compared to the global average. This factor strengthens the region’s fisheries, making them more resilient to overexploitation.
Advantages of Small-Scale, Multispecies Fisheries
According to Prof. Fritz, small-scale fisheries offer several ecological and economic advantages:
- Employment Generation: Low productivity allows more individuals to engage in fishing without overexploiting marine resources.
- Minimal Environmental Impact: Small-scale fishing gear reduces habitat destruction and ecological disturbance.
- Higher Quality Catch: Limited fish catches ensure freshness and premium market value.
Unlike many regions that rely on intensive fishing of a few key species, Southeast Asia’s fisheries maintain high biodiversity through multispecies capture. The study emphasizes the importance of non-species-selective fishing practices, which help sustain diverse fish populations and marine ecosystems.
Sustainable Fisheries Management: Key Takeaways
To ensure the long-term sustainability of Southeast Asia’s fisheries, Prof. Fritz advocates for:
- Encouraging Multispecies Fisheries: Non-selective fishing methods help preserve biodiversity and ecosystem balance.
- Supporting Artisanal Fisheries: Protecting small-scale fishers ensures environmental sustainability while promoting local economies.
- Implementing Effective Regulation: Sustainable fishing practices should be promoted through conservation policies and community-driven management.
Conclusion
Southeast Asia’s fisheries present a model of resilience amid global overfishing concerns. By prioritizing biodiversity, small-scale fishing, and sustainable management practices, the region sets an example for fisheries worldwide.
Reference:
Takashi Fritz Matsuishi, Status of Southeast Asian Fisheries: Distinctive Characteristics and Pathways to Sustainable Fisheries, Fisheries Science (2025). DOI: 10.1007/s12562-025-01854-w