Introducing the Marine DNA Barcoding Best Practices Guide

The guide, titled “Introduction to Developing DNA Reference Barcode Sequences,” was created by the West Coast Ocean Biomolecular Observing Network (WC-OBON)—a regional node of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development’s global biomolecular observatory network. It is now publicly available via Zenodo, offering open-access guidance for scientists worldwide.

Developed without dedicated funding, this guide is a collaborative effort by 15 scientists representing 11 organizations, including UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL), and the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations (CalCOFI).

What the Guide Offers

The guide compiles standard protocols for DNA barcode creation, addressing each stage of the workflow:

• Field collection of marine specimens
• Specimen sorting and photography
• Tissue sampling and preservation
• Laboratory-based DNA extraction and amplification
• Barcode sequencing and data analysis
• Archiving and uploading data to global databases like GenBank and the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD)

By integrating best practices from marine biology, taxonomy, molecular ecology, and bioinformatics, the guide aims to ensure accuracy, consistency, and reproducibility in building DNA reference libraries.

“This guide is an invaluable resource for scientists involved in specimen curation, taxonomic identification, and barcode sequencing,” said Dr. Nastassia Patin, molecular ecologist at Scripps Oceanography and co-author of the guide.

Supporting the Growth of Environmental DNA (eDNA) Applications

The new guide directly supports the expanding field of environmental DNA (eDNA) research—a powerful, non-invasive method for assessing biodiversity. eDNA techniques allow researchers to detect species in an ecosystem simply by analyzing genetic material left behind in seawater samples.

“One of the most exciting aspects of this guide is how it brings together all the key steps—from collection to data sharing—into one comprehensive document,” said Dr. Zachary Gold, lead molecular ecologist at NOAA PMEL and co-author.

However, the success of eDNA technologies depends heavily on the availability of high-quality reference databases. Without reliable barcode sequences, linking unknown environmental DNA fragments to actual marine species remains a challenge. This guide fills that gap by offering a clear roadmap for researchers to contribute well-documented, verified DNA barcodes to public repositories.

Setting Gold Standards for Marine DNA Reference Libraries

The guide emphasizes the importance of preserving voucher specimens—physical specimens that are archived in museums or scientific collections to serve as permanent references. Contributions from the Scripps Oceanographic Collections, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles enriched this section with expert insights.

“Every step of building a DNA reference library requires deep expertise—from taxonomic identification to data archiving,” added Dr. Gold. “This project highlighted the invaluable work done by taxonomists and curators behind the scenes.”

A Community Resource for Biodiversity Research

Built on principles of open science and FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data practices, the guide is intended to be a shared resource for the global scientific community. It encourages collaboration across disciplines—whether in the field, lab, or museum—to accelerate our collective understanding of marine ecosystems.

“By making these barcode sequences widely available, we empower researchers worldwide to better interpret their eDNA data and make meaningful connections to marine life,” said Patin.

Future Applications and Biodiversity Protection

In addition to supporting global biodiversity research, the guide will also benefit emerging projects in California’s intertidal zones and other regional conservation initiatives.

“As climate change and human activities put increasing pressure on marine biodiversity, this guide provides a timely, science-backed tool to support ecosystem monitoring and conservation efforts,” said Patin.

Access the Guide

Title: Introduction to Developing DNA Reference Barcode Sequences
DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.14867762
Published on: Zenodo
Authors: WC-OBON Consortium

But how profitable is aquaculture in 2025? Let’s dive into a detailed analysis.

The Global Aquaculture Market: A Billion-Dollar Industry

The aquaculture industry is booming. As of 2024, the market is valued at USD 310.6 billion, and it’s projected to reach USD 425.39 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.95%. This impressive growth is driven by increasing seafood demand, health-conscious consumers, and the depletion of wild fish stocks.

In fact, aquaculture has now surpassed wild-capture fisheries in production volume, signaling a major shift in how the world sources seafood.

Which Aquaculture Types Are Most Profitable?

Aquaculture profitability depends heavily on what species are farmed and how. Here’s a breakdown:

Finfish Farming

• Salmon: Among the most profitable, with major companies like Mowi reporting record earnings. Still, rising costs and disease risks remain.
• Tilapia: Profitable in regions like Indonesia, Bangladesh, and China. Return Cost Ratios above 1.3 suggest commercial viability.
• Catfish: A staple in the U.S. and Africa. Moderate profitability, especially with innovations like the split-pond system.
• Carp: Less lucrative per kg but cost-effective in large freshwater systems.

Shrimp Farming

Vannamei shrimp farming can offer 35–45% profit margins. Direct-to-consumer models and price control strategies enhance profitability. However, feed costs and disease outbreaks are key risks.

Shellfish Farming (Oysters, Mussels, Clams)

Oysters dominate in regions like Massachusetts. Profitability scales with operation size and sales channels. Environmentally friendly practices further increase market appeal.

Seaweed Farming

An emerging player. Seaweed farms in Maine and Southeast Asia are expanding rapidly due to demand for food, cosmetics, biofuels, and packaging. Scalability and innovation are key to success.

Key Factors That Drive Profitability in Aquaculture

1. Species Selection: Choose fast-growing, disease-resistant, and high-demand species.
2. Farming Technology: Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), IoT sensors, and AI tools improve yield and reduce waste.
3. Feed Efficiency: Feed can make up 40%–70% of costs. Optimizing feed types and schedules is essential.
4. Disease Management: Losses from disease reach billions annually. Biosecurity, diagnostics, and resistant strains are vital.
5. Market Prices: Selling directly or offering value-added products like fillets or marinated seafood can boost income.
6. Water Quality: Better water, better growth. Simple as that.

Startup and Operational Costs: What’s the Investment?

Starting an aquaculture business can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $500,000+. Costs depend on the type of system:

• Pond-based: Lower startup but requires more land.
• RAS: Higher investment but uses less water and offers year-round production.

Ongoing costs include:

• Feed
• Labor
• Electricity
• Water quality management
• Transportation
• Regulatory compliance

Multiple Revenue Streams in Aquaculture

Aquaculture income isn’t limited to seafood sales. Other opportunities include:

• Selling fingerlings or juvenile fish
• Ornamental fish trade
• Agritourism (farm visits, eco-tours)
• Hatchery services
• Online or local market direct sales

Case Studies: What Makes Aquaculture Succeed or Fail?

Success Stories:

• Chicoa Fish Farm (Mozambique): Vertical integration and expert management.
• Local Ocean (USA): Niche marketing of Mediterranean bass.
• Australis Aquaculture: Consistent production of barramundi.

Failures Often Due To:

• Poor planning and undercapitalization
• Disease outbreaks
• Overestimation of production
• Regulatory roadblocks

Sustainability and Regulation: Profit or Pain?

Strict environmental regulations can increase costs—but sustainable practices often lead to long-term gains. Recirculating systems, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA), and sustainable feed sources appeal to modern consumers and reduce risk.

Climate Change and Risk Management

Aquaculture isn’t risk-free. Major concerns include:

• Climate Change: Ocean acidification, temperature shifts, and sea-level rise can hurt yields.
• Disease Outbreaks
• Price Volatility: Global events and market shifts can disrupt profitability.

Mitigation strategies include climate-resilient farming practices, improved forecasting, and diversification of species and income sources.

Final Thoughts: Is Aquaculture a Good Investment?

Yes—if done right. The aquaculture industry offers immense profitability potential across various farming types. However, success demands:

• Smart species selection
• Cost and disease control
• Tech adoption
• Market understanding
• Sustainability focus

With the right strategy, aquaculture can offer both financial returns and food security in a rapidly changing world.

PhD Overview: Groundwater Temperature & Global Change

• Host Institutions: Université de Rennes 1 (Géosciences Rennes, CNRS) and BRGM (French Geological Survey)
• Location: Rennes, France & BRGM, Orléans
• Start Date: Expected in late 2025 (September/October)
• Duration: 3 years
• Funding: Fully funded (tuition + monthly stipend of ~€1,500–€2,000 + research expenses)

Research Focus:

The PhD research aims to:

• Characterize thermal regimes in aquifers across France.
• Understand how climate change (e.g., rising temperatures, altered precipitation) and human activities (e.g., land use, groundwater extraction) affect groundwater temperatures.
• Study heat transport mechanisms—both conductive (from surface warming) and advective (from groundwater flow).
• Analyze field data from observatory networks like H+.
• Develop predictive hydrothermal models using advanced software (e.g., DFN.lab).

The research may be linked to the ERC-funded CONCRETER project, which explores groundwater flow controls on subsurface thermal regimes, led by Dr. Maria Klepikova.

Methodologies & Tools:

• Fieldwork including temperature profiling in boreholes.
• Use of Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) and other cutting-edge thermal mapping tools.
• Numerical modeling and simulations with Python, MATLAB, R, or domain-specific platforms.
• Regional scaling from crystalline aquifers in Brittany to sedimentary and karst systems elsewhere in France.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Required Degree: Master’s in Hydrogeology, Geosciences, Environmental Science, or related fields.
• Technical Skills: Experience with data analysis, numerical modeling, and programming (Python, MATLAB, R).
• Language: Proficiency in English is required.

Supervisors & Research Environment:

You will join a world-renowned hydrogeology group at Université de Rennes 1, with ~15 permanent researchers working at the intersection of groundwater science, climate change, and environmental modeling.

Potential Supervisors:

• Dr. Maria Klepikova – Hydrogeologist & thermal transport expert
  maria.klepikova@univ-rennes1.fr
• Dr. Jean-Christophe Maréchal – BRGM, expert in groundwater flow and heat transport
  jc.marechal@brgm.fr
• Prof. Philippe Davy – Specialist in fracture networks and modeling
• Prof. Olivier Bour – Groundwater fluxes expert

How to Apply:

To apply, email your application to:
maria.klepikova@univ-rennes1.fr and jc.marechal@brgm.fr

Required Documents:

• Updated CV
• Motivation letter
• Academic transcripts
• 2–3 academic references (including Master’s thesis supervisor)

Why This Matters:

Understanding groundwater temperature dynamics is vital for predicting water quality, ecosystem health, and the future of sustainable water use under climate change. This PhD offers a rare opportunity to contribute to high-impact environmental research at the heart of Europe’s hydrogeological innovation.

What Makes Duckweed a Game-Changer in Green Technology?

Duckweed is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth. It thrives in diverse water environments—ponds, swamps, wastewater, and puddles—requiring only sunlight and carbon dioxide. Its rapid growth and ability to regenerate without soil make it ideal for eco-friendly applications, from protein-rich animal feed to biofuel production and even carbon capture.

Now, scientists have taken a giant leap forward in understanding why duckweed is so versatile.

High-Resolution Genome Sequencing of Five Duckweed Species

CSHL Professor and HHMI Investigator Dr. Rob Martienssen, along with computational analyst Evan Ernst, has developed high-quality genome sequences for five duckweed species. This comprehensive gene mapping helps explain the plant’s extraordinary traits.

“The use of cutting-edge genome sequencing allowed us to precisely identify which genes are present or missing,” said Martienssen. “We found that certain missing genes are directly linked to traits like open stomata and the absence of roots.”

Unique Genetic Traits Uncovered

• Open stomata: These tiny pores help the plant absorb more carbon dioxide and release oxygen efficiently, enhancing its role in carbon capture technologies.
• Lack of roots: Some species grow without roots, increasing their efficiency in nutrient uptake and enabling survival in various water bodies.
• High protein content: Certain duckweed strains are rich in protein, making them a viable option for animal feed and plant-based nutrition.
• Starch accumulation: Other species store high amounts of starch, positioning duckweed as a potential biofuel source.

The Future of Duckweed Farming and Its Commercial Potential

Ernst notes that while duckweed agriculture is still emerging, interest from multiple industries is growing. Farmers and commercial growers are experimenting with various species, assessing their suitability for local environments.

“There’s significant genetic diversity even within a single species of duckweed,” says Ernst. “That’s why sequencing multiple species is essential for understanding its full potential.”

With this newly released genomic data, duckweed cultivation could see rapid advancements in agriculture, clean energy, and climate resilience.

Insights Into Evolution and Climate Adaptation

Beyond its commercial promise, the research offers a glimpse into duckweed’s evolutionary journey. The genetic data suggests these species diverged around 59 million years ago, during a period of extreme climate change—an insight that may hold clues to how plants adapt to environmental stressors.

Duckweed Genome Research: Study Details

Study Title: Duckweed genomes and epigenomes underlie triploid hybridization and clonal reproduction
Authors: Evan Ernst et al.
Journal: Current Biology (2025)
DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.013

Final Thoughts

With its minimal growing requirements, high yield, and diverse applications, duckweed is poised to play a significant role in sustainable development. This breakthrough genome research could accelerate the development of innovative solutions in food production, renewable energy, and environmental conservation.

1. Antibacterial Medications in Aquaculture

Antibacterial drugs are essential for controlling bacterial infections, one of the leading causes of disease in farmed fish. These antibiotics target and kill harmful bacteria, preventing widespread outbreaks. Common antibacterial agents include:

• Oxytetracycline: A broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It’s widely used to treat columnaris disease, vibriosis, and aeromoniasis.
• Florfenicol: Known for its efficacy against bacterial pathogens, particularly those causing enteric septicemia in catfish and furunculosis.
• Sulfonamide Combinations: These are bacteriostatic drugs, often combined with other agents, to combat a broad range of bacterial infections.
• Erythromycin: A macrolide antibiotic effective against Gram-positive bacteria, used to treat gill diseases.
• Amoxicillin: A penicillin-type antibiotic showing effectiveness against various bacterial infections.

Key Considerations for Antibiotic Use:

• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Overuse or misuse of antibiotics in aquaculture can contribute to AMR, posing a risk to both aquatic and human health.
• Withdrawal Periods: Proper withdrawal periods must be observed to ensure that antibiotic residues in fish are below safe levels before they are consumed.
• Environmental Impact: Antibiotics released into water can disrupt microbial ecosystems and contribute to resistance.

2. Antiparasitic Treatments for Aquatic Health

Parasites, including protozoa, helminths, and crustaceans, are common threats in aquaculture. Antiparasitic treatments are essential for maintaining healthy fish populations. Some frequently used antiparasitic agents are:

• Formalin: A potent parasiticide used to treat external parasites such as Ichthyophthirius (white spot disease) and monogenean trematodes.
• Malachite Green: A synthetic dye with antifungal and antiparasitic properties, effective against protozoan infections.
• Copper Sulfate: An inorganic compound used to treat parasites and control algae.
• Praziquantel: An effective anthelmintic against tapeworms and other helminths.
• Emamectin Benzoate: Used primarily in salmon farming to control sea lice.

Key Considerations for Antiparasitic Drug Use:

• Target Specificity: Select the correct antiparasitic drug based on the parasite type.
• Environmental Impact: Some antiparasitic drugs can harm non-target organisms in aquatic ecosystems.
• Handling Precautions: Some antiparasitics, like formalin and malachite green, require careful handling due to toxicity risks.

3. Antifungal Agents for Fish Disease Management

Fungal infections, such as saprolegniasis, can affect fish and their eggs, especially under stress. Antifungal agents play a critical role in preventing and managing these infections:

• Formalin: An antifungal agent used to treat fungal infections in both fish and eggs.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: An oxidizing agent used for external fungal infections, considered safer for the environment compared to other antifungal treatments.
• Iodophors: Iodine-based disinfectants for treating fungal infections.
• Salt (Sodium Chloride): Increasing water salinity can help control certain fungal infections, particularly in freshwater fish.

Key Considerations for Antifungal Agent Use:

• Life Stage Sensitivity: Fish and fungal stages may respond differently to antifungal treatments.
• Water Quality: Factors like pH and temperature can affect the effectiveness and safety of antifungal agents.

4. Disinfectants and Water Quality Management

Disinfectants and water treatments are essential for preventing disease outbreaks by maintaining a healthy aquatic environment. Commonly used products include:

• Lime (Calcium Oxide/Hydroxide): Used for sanitizing pond bottoms and improving water quality.
• Chlorine-Based Compounds: Effective for disinfecting equipment and water sources, though they must be neutralized to avoid toxicity to fish.
• Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs): Used to disinfect equipment and surfaces.
• Probiotics: Live microorganisms that enhance gut health and water quality in aquaculture systems.
• Prebiotics: Non-digestible substances that encourage beneficial bacteria growth in the digestive system.

Key Considerations for Disinfectant Use:

• Toxicity: Many disinfectants can be toxic to aquatic organisms if used improperly.
• Environmental Impact: Improper disposal of disinfectants can harm ecosystems.
• Effectiveness: Water quality factors like organic matter can influence the efficacy of disinfectants.

5. Anesthetics for Fish Handling

Anesthetics are crucial for reducing stress during fish handling, transportation, and other procedures. By minimizing stress, anesthetics help prevent disease outbreaks. Common anesthetics used in aquaculture include:

• Tricaine Methanesulfonate (MS-222): A popular anesthetic for fish, providing rapid induction and recovery.
• Clove Oil (Eugenol): A natural anesthetic known for its environmental safety and ease of use.

Key Considerations for Anesthetic Use:

• Species-Specific Dosage: Different fish species require varying anesthetic doses.
• Withdrawal Periods: It’s essential to observe withdrawal periods to ensure anesthetic residues are below safe levels for human consumption.

Conclusion: Ensuring Sustainable Aquaculture Practices

The responsible use of veterinary medicines is essential for maintaining fish health and ensuring the sustainability of aquaculture. Antibacterial agents, antiparasitic treatments, antifungals, disinfectants, and anesthetics are commonly used in managing diseases and preventing outbreaks. However, the overuse or misuse of these treatments can have significant ecological and health consequences, including antimicrobial resistance and environmental disruption.

Aquaculture professionals must adhere to regulations and best practices, seek veterinary guidance, and focus on integrated disease management that emphasizes prevention, accurate diagnosis, and targeted treatment. Ongoing research and development are crucial to identifying safer, more effective alternatives for disease control in aquaculture, ensuring the continued growth and success of the industry.

1. World Fisheries Trust Scholarships

• Focus: Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture
• Eligibility: MSc/PhD students from developing countries
• Award: Up to $5,000
• Apply at: worldfisheries.org

2. FAO-Hungarian Government Scholarship

• Focus: Aquaculture & fisheries management
• Eligibility: Students from developing countries (MSc/PhD)
• Award: Full tuition + monthly stipend
• Apply at: FAO Scholarships

3. JIRCAS Research Fellowship (Japan)

• Focus: Fisheries technology, climate adaptation
• Eligibility: PhD researchers from Asia, Africa, Latin America
• Award: Research funding + travel allowance
• Apply at: jircas.go.jp

4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Aquaculture (EMJMD AQUA)

• Focus: Integrated aquaculture
• Eligibility: International MSc students
• Award: Full tuition + €1,000/month stipend
• Apply at: em-aqua.eu

5. ASEAN Foundation Scholarship for Marine Sciences

• Focus: Fisheries sustainability in Southeast Asia
• Eligibility: ASEAN nationals pursuing MSc/PhD
• Award: Tuition + living expenses
• Apply at: aseanfoundation.org

6. Commonwealth Scholarships in Fisheries Science (UK)

• Focus: Fisheries policy and marine conservation
• Eligibility: Citizens of Commonwealth countries (MSc/PhD)
• Award: Full tuition, airfare, and living stipend
• Apply at: cscuk.org.uk

7. Norwegian Quota Scheme in Aquaculture

• Focus: Marine resource management
• Eligibility: MSc/PhD students from developing nations
• Award: Full academic funding
• Apply at: studyinnorway.no

8. Rufford Small Grants for Fisheries Conservation

• Focus: Community-led conservation projects
• Eligibility: Early-career researchers
• Award: Up to £10,000
• Apply at: rufford.org

9. Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)

• Focus: Tropical fisheries and aquaculture
• Eligibility: Students from Indo-Pacific countries
• Award: Full tuition + travel + stipend
• Apply at: australiaawards.gov.au

10. SEARCA Graduate Scholarships (Philippines)

• Focus: Aquaculture innovation
• Eligibility: Southeast Asian nationals
• Award: Tuition + research funding
• Apply at: searca.org

11–25: More Scholarships You Shouldn’t Miss

11. OIST PhD Program in Marine Sciences (Japan)
    Full funding + ¥240,000/month
    ➤ oist.jp
12. VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)
    For students from Africa, Asia, Latin America
    ➤ vliruos.be
13. Nippon Foundation-Nereus Program
    Ocean sustainability research grants
    ➤ nereusprogram.org
14. IDRC Research Awards (Canada)
    Climate-resilient fisheries focus, up to CAD $20,000
    ➤ idrc.ca
15. AIT Scholarships (Thailand)
    Aquaculture systems, Asian students only
    ➤ ait.ac.th
16. Fulbright Fisheries Program (USA)
    Policy & tech-focused programs in U.S. universities
    ➤ fulbright.edu
17. Wageningen University Scholarships (Netherlands)
    €25,000 for MSc in Aquaculture & Marine Resources
    ➤ wur.nl
18. DAAD Marine Biology Scholarships (Germany)
    €850–1,200/month for MSc/PhD
    ➤ daad.de
19. NZ Aid Scholarships for Pacific Fisheries
    Full funding for Pacific Island nationals
    ➤ mfat.govt.nz
20. Chinese Government Scholarships in Marine Sciences
    Aquaculture engineering, full coverage
    ➤ csc.edu.cn
21. Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) Fellowships
    Up to $40,000 for tropical fisheries ecology
    ➤ stri.si.edu
22. Alfred Wegener Institute Scholarships (Germany)
    Polar fisheries and climate research funding
    ➤ awi.de
23. ICAR Fellowships (India)
    INR 25,000–35,000/month for Indian fisheries students
    ➤ icar.org.in
24. MASTS Marine Science Scholarships (UK)
    £15,000/year for PhD in fisheries modeling
    ➤ masts.ac.uk
25. Other Regional or National Fellowships
    Explore your local fisheries institutes, government scholarships, or research councils for additional funding opportunities!

Final Tips for Applicants

• Start applications early and carefully read the eligibility criteria.
• Customize your SOP (Statement of Purpose) for each scholarship.
• Contact professors or previous awardees to strengthen your application.
• Highlight your passion for sustainable aquaculture, fisheries innovation, or marine biodiversity.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a student in fisheries science, aquaculture engineering, or marine conservation, these scholarships and fellowships offer a golden opportunity to finance your education and research. Bookmark this post and share it with your peers—because a bright blue future awaits under the waves!

Comparing Scallop Farming Techniques: Ear-Hanging vs. Lantern Net Culture

Published in the journal Aquaculture, the research analyzes two popular scallop aquaculture techniques—ear-hanging and lantern net culture—across a complete grow-out cycle. The goal? To determine which method yields better results in terms of scallop growth, adductor muscle weight, and overall profitability for commercial shellfish growers.

Led by UMaine postdoctoral researcher Dr. Christopher Noren, the four-year study partnered with two scallop farms in Penobscot Bay and Frenchman Bay to track growth rates, shell size, and muscle development.

Key Findings: Ear-Hanging Shows Growth Advantage

The study found that scallops grown using the ear-hanging method showed superior results in several key metrics:

• Shell height: 1%–4% larger compared to lantern net culture.
• Adductor muscle weight: Up to 12% greater, a crucial factor for market pricing and consumer demand in U.S. seafood markets.

Since the adductor muscle is the primary edible portion of the scallop, this increase represents a meaningful boost in commercial value.

“We aimed to deliver actionable data for scallop farmers,” said Dr. Christopher Noren. “By evaluating both methods through a full farming cycle, we identified clear biological and operational advantages.”

Environmental Considerations and Temperature Effects

The research also highlighted how water temperature influences scallop growth. Scallops in ear-hanging setups grew more efficiently in optimal water temperatures (50–59°F), but they were slightly more vulnerable to colder winter conditions compared to those in lantern nets.

“Understanding these trade-offs is critical for farmers planning their harvest timing and production strategies,” added Dr. Damian Brady, UMaine oceanography professor and co-author of the study.

Supporting Scalable, Sustainable Scallop Farming

Maine’s scallop aquaculture sector is still emerging, with growers exploring scalable and sustainable farming models. Traditionally, suspended lantern net systems are used due to their multi-tiered design, but they require significant maintenance to manage biofouling—the buildup of algae, barnacles, and other marine organisms.

In contrast, the ear-hanging method, inspired by Japanese scallop farming, involves drilling a small hole in each shell and suspending scallops on a submerged line. This allows better water circulation, potentially improving growth rates while reducing labor-intensive cleaning.

“This research gives us measurable data that helps us make informed decisions,” said Andrew Peters, owner of Vertical Bay LLC and co-author. “Choosing the right gear has a real impact on our efficiency and profit margins.”

A Step Toward Domestic Seafood Security

With the U.S. importing the majority of its seafood, including scallops, this study contributes valuable insights for enhancing domestic aquaculture capabilities. By identifying optimal farming methods, researchers are helping Maine build a more resilient and profitable scallop industry.

Learn More

• Research Title: Comparing growth of ear-hanging and lantern net cultured Atlantic sea scallops, Placopecten magellanicus, over a complete grow-out cycle to determine optimal harvest timing
• Authors: Christopher Noren et al.
• Published in: Aquaculture (2025)
• DOI: 10.1016/j.aquaculture.2025.742408

This fellowship provides a remarkable opportunity to carry out independent research in Germany at top institutions, working alongside world-class experts while gaining international exposure.

Fellowship Highlights

Research Duration in Germany

• Postdoctoral Fellows: 6 to 24 months
• Experienced Researchers: 6 to 18 months
• Flexible options available – fellowships can be split into up to 3 separate stays.

Funding & Benefits

• Postdoctoral Stipend: €2,700/month
• Experienced Researcher Stipend: €3,200/month
• Additional Perks:
  • Family and travel allowances
  • Language course funding
  • Networking events and mentoring support
  • Access to a prestigious alumni network

These fellowships are designed not only to support your research but to foster long-term international collaboration and academic mobility.

Who Can Apply?

• Postdoctoral Researchers: PhD completed within the last 4 years
• Experienced Researchers: PhD completed within the last 12 years
• Open to researchers from all academic disciplines
• Available for applicants of almost all nationalities (Brazil excluded)

Application Deadlines

Applications are reviewed three times a year:
March, July, and November

Early preparation is key – make sure your research proposal and host confirmation are ready!

How to Apply

For full fellowship details and to begin your application process, visit the official website:
Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowship

Join a Global Network of Scholars

Be part of a vibrant, international academic community committed to excellence and innovation. The Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship is your gateway to a successful research career in Germany.

Apply now and take the next big step in your academic journey!

Key Findings: Loss of Fish Species is Undermining Coastal Food Security

The study highlights that traditional fisheries management strategies focused on resilient, fast-growing fish species fail to compensate for the disappearance of more vulnerable species, such as snappers, goatfish, unicornfish, sweetlips, and soldierfish. These fish, often caught in large schools, are essential for coastal diets due to their high nutritional value.

“Current catches are missing a significant portion of historically common species,” said Associate Professor Austin Humphries, co-author of the study. “This loss impacts both food security and the livelihoods of local fishing communities.”

Why Protecting Fish Diversity Matters More Than Targeting Resilient Species

The research team analyzed decades of data from seven marine protected areas, some closed to fishing for over 45 years. By comparing these no-take zones with local fishing grounds, scientists identified a clear decline in fish biomass and diversity outside protected areas.

Dr. Tim McClanahan, lead author and Director of Science at WCS Global Marine Program, explained:

“Nearly 50% of potential fisheries production is lost when once-abundant species disappear. Relying solely on resilient species gives a false sense of sustainability.”

This study challenges previous recommendations that encouraged fishers to focus on species thought to withstand fishing pressure. Instead, the data shows that total fish yield is highest when both resilient and vulnerable species coexist—especially those that school and contribute significantly to total catch volume.

Gear Restrictions and Community-Based Management Can Rebuild Fish Populations

Fishing methods matter. The study found that fishing gear like gillnets and spearguns disproportionately target schooling species, accelerating their decline. In contrast, regions with gear restrictions and managed access showed better recovery of fish communities and higher yields.

“Areas that regulate gillnets and spearguns see better outcomes for fish populations,” said Jesse Kosgei, a marine research scientist at WCS Kenya.

Limitations of Traditional Fisheries Sustainability Metrics

Conventional length-based assessments, often used to measure fisheries sustainability, fail to account for entire species disappearing from catches, rendering them ineffective in high-biodiversity areas like coral reefs.

Instead of using these limited tools, the researchers advocate for a holistic approach that monitors full fish community composition, not just a few target species.

Rethinking Coral Reef Fisheries Management: A Call to Action

This research provides a clear message: Sustainable coastal fisheries depend on protecting the full diversity of marine life, not just harvesting what remains. Overfishing of vulnerable, schooling species is reducing ecological resilience, food security, and the long-term viability of coastal economies.

Key Takeaways for Sustainable Coastal Fisheries:

• Overfishing is driving the loss of key fish species in East Africa.
• Focusing only on resilient species fails to sustain fisheries productivity.
• Gear restrictions can help rebuild diverse fish communities.
• Holistic, community-based management is critical for long-term sustainability.

By shifting focus from individual species to ecosystem-wide protection, policymakers and fishers can help reverse the damage and ensure a more secure future for marine biodiversity and coastal livelihoods.

Reference:
Timothy Rice McClanahan et al., Fisheries Sustainability Eroded by Lost Catch Proportionality in a Coral Reef Seascape, Sustainability (2025). DOI: 10.3390/su17062671

Provided by: Wildlife Conservation Society

6. How does warming ocean temperatures affect fish distribution?
   a) Fish move toward the equator
   b) Fish move toward the poles
   c) Fish stay in the same regions
   d) Fish migrate to deeper waters only
   Answer: b) Fish move toward the poles
7. Which of the following fish species is most vulnerable to warming waters?
   a) Tropical tuna
   b) Arctic cod
   c) Salmon
   d) Sardines
   Answer: b) Arctic cod
8. What is the expected impact of climate change on global fish catch potential by 2050?
   a) Increase by 20%
   b) Decrease by 10-30%
   c) Remain the same
   d) Increase in tropics, decrease in temperate zones
   Answer: b) Decrease by 10-30%
9. How does ocean acidification affect shellfish?
   a) Enhances shell growth
   b) Weakens shell formation due to reduced carbonate ions
   c) No effect
   d) Increases their reproductive rate
   Answer: b) Weakens shell formation due to reduced carbonate ions
10. Which phenomenon disrupts upwelling, affecting fish productivity?
    a) La Niña
    b) El Niño
    c) Monsoon
    d) Cyclones
    Answer: b) El Niño

11. Which of the following is an adaptation strategy for fisheries under climate change?
    a) Expanding fishing efforts in vulnerable areas
    b) Implementing dynamic ocean management
    c) Increasing bottom trawling
    d) Ignoring shifting fish stocks
    Answer: b) Implementing dynamic ocean management
12. How can aquaculture help mitigate climate impacts on fisheries?
    a) By increasing wild fish exploitation
    b) By reducing dependence on wild stocks
    c) By promoting overfishing
    d) By ignoring water quality
    Answer: b) By reducing dependence on wild stocks
13. Which international agreement addresses climate change impacts on oceans?
    a) CITES
    b) Paris Agreement
    c) Kyoto Protocol
    d) UNCLOS
    Answer: b) Paris Agreement
14. What is “blue carbon” in the context of climate change mitigation?
    a) Carbon stored in marine ecosystems like mangroves and seagrasses
    b) Carbon from fossil fuels
    c) Carbon in fish bones
    d) Carbon in plastic waste
    Answer: a) Carbon stored in marine ecosystems like mangroves and seagrasses
15. Which fishing practice is most climate-resilient?
    a) Bottom trawling
    b) Longline fishing
    c) Small-scale selective fishing
    d) Drift netting
    Answer: c) Small-scale selective fishing

16. What is the primary driver of sea-level rise?
    a) Melting glaciers and ice sheets
    b) Increased rainfall
    c) Ocean currents slowing down
    d) Volcanic eruptions
    Answer: a) Melting glaciers and ice sheets
17. How does deoxygenation (loss of oxygen) affect marine life?
    a) Increases fish growth
    b) Creates dead zones where fish cannot survive
    c) Enhances coral reefs
    d) No impact
    Answer: b) Creates dead zones where fish cannot survive
18. Which of the following best describes “thermal expansion” in oceans?
    a) Water contracts as it warms
    b) Water expands as it warms, contributing to sea-level rise
    c) Ice formation increases
    d) Salinity decreases
    Answer: b) Water expands as it warms, contributing to sea-level rise
19. How does climate change affect the frequency of harmful algal blooms (HABs)?
    a) Decreases them
    b) Increases them due to warmer waters
    c) No effect
    d) Makes them occur only in polar regions
    Answer: b) Increases them due to warmer waters
20. Which marine species is most affected by coral bleaching?
    a) Deep-sea fish
    b) Pelagic tuna
    c) Reef-associated fish
    d) Arctic krill
    Answer: c) Reef-associated fish

21. Which group is most vulnerable to climate-induced fishery declines?
    a) Industrial fishing corporations
    b) Small-scale fishers in developing countries
    c) Aquaculture farms
    d) Recreational fishers
    Answer: b) Small-scale fishers in developing countries
22. What is the role of the FAO in climate change and fisheries?
    a) Promoting fossil fuel use
    b) Providing guidelines for sustainable fisheries under climate change
    c) Ignoring climate impacts
    d) Encouraging overfishing
    Answer: b) Providing guidelines for sustainable fisheries under climate change
23. Which policy tool helps manage fish stocks under climate uncertainty?
    a) Fixed catch quotas
    b) Ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM)
    c) Banning all fishing
    d) Subsidizing overfishing
    Answer: b) Ecosystem-based fisheries management (EBFM)
24. How does climate change affect fish market prices?
    a) Prices decrease due to abundance
    b) Prices increase due to reduced supply
    c) No effect
    d) Only affects luxury fish
    Answer: b) Prices increase due to reduced supply
25. Which country is most affected by climate-induced fishery shifts?
    a) Landlocked nations
    b) Small island developing states (SIDS)
    c) Desert regions
    d) Arctic countries only
    Answer: b) Small island developing states (SIDS)

26. Which region is experiencing the fastest warming, affecting cold-water fisheries?
    a) Tropics
    b) Arctic
    c) Temperate zones
    d) Southern Ocean
    Answer: b) Arctic
27. How is climate change affecting the productivity of the Humboldt Current system?
    a) Increasing anchovy stocks
    b) Decreasing productivity due to weakened upwelling
    c) No impact
    d) Causing jellyfish blooms
    Answer: b) Decreasing productivity due to weakened upwelling
28. Which fish species in the North Atlantic is shifting northward due to warming?
    a) Atlantic cod
    b) Pacific salmon
    c) Yellowfin tuna
    d) Anchovies
    Answer: a) Atlantic cod
29. What is a major climate threat to coral reef fisheries in Southeast Asia?
    a) Overfishing only
    b) Ocean acidification and bleaching
    c) Increased ice cover
    d) Reduced rainfall
    Answer: b) Ocean acidification and bleaching
30. How does melting Arctic ice affect commercial fisheries?
    a) Opens new fishing grounds but risks ecosystem disruption
    b) Reduces fish migration
    c) Increases salinity, harming fish
    d) No significant effect
    Answer: a) Opens new fishing grounds but risks ecosystem disruption

31. The collapse of the Peruvian anchoveta fishery in 1972 was linked to:
    a) Overfishing only
    b) El Niño event
    c) Oil spills
    d) Plastic pollution
    Answer: b) El Niño event
32. Which country’s fisheries are highly vulnerable to sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion?
    a) Bangladesh
    b) Mongolia
    c) Switzerland
    d) Saudi Arabia
    Answer: a) Bangladesh
33. The decline of Atlantic salmon in Europe is partly due to:
    a) Warmer river temperatures
    b) Increased ice cover
    c) Reduced ocean CO₂
    d) More upwelling
    Answer: a) Warmer river temperatures
34. How did the 2015-16 global coral bleaching event impact Pacific Island fisheries?
    a) Boosted fish catches
    b) Reduced reef fish abundance
    c) Increased tuna migration
    d) No effect
    Answer: b) Reduced reef fish abundance
35. The “Blob” (2013-2016 Pacific warm anomaly) caused:
    a) Massive phytoplankton blooms
    b) Seabird die-offs and fishery closures
    c) Increased Arctic cod populations
    d) Cooling of the California Current
    Answer: b) Seabird die-offs and fishery closures

36. Which technology helps track fish migration shifts due to climate change?
    a) Satellite tagging
    b) Bottom trawling
    c) Fish aggregating devices (FADs)
    d) Drift nets
    Answer: a) Satellite tagging
37. What is “climate-smart aquaculture”?
    a) Farming species resilient to temperature changes
    b) Increasing fossil fuel use
    c) Ignoring water quality
    d) Only farming carnivorous fish
    Answer: a) Farming species resilient to temperature changes
38. How can marine protected areas (MPAs) help fisheries adapt to climate change?
    a) By allowing overfishing in reserves
    b) By providing refuges for fish stocks to recover
    c) By increasing ocean acidification
    d) By banning all fishing forever
    Answer: b) By providing refuges for fish stocks to recover
39. Which fishing gear reduces bycatch and ecosystem damage?
    a) Bottom trawls
    b) Gillnets
    c) Selective longlines with circle hooks
    d) Dynamite fishing
    Answer: c) Selective longlines with circle hooks
40. What role do artificial reefs play in climate adaptation?
    a) They replace natural reefs entirely
    b) They provide habitat for fish displaced by warming
    c) They increase ocean acidification
    d) They attract only invasive species
    Answer: b) They provide habitat for fish displaced by warming

41. Under RCP 8.5 (high emissions), what is projected for tropical fisheries by 2100?
    a) Catches increase by 50%
    b) Catches decline by 40-60%
    c) No change
    d) Only cold-water species thrive
    Answer: b) Catches decline by 40-60%
42. Which region may see increased fish productivity due to climate change?
    a) Tropics
    b) High-latitude oceans (e.g., Barents Sea)
    c) Equatorial Pacific
    d) Indian Ocean dead zones
    Answer: b) High-latitude oceans (e.g., Barents Sea)
43. How will ocean stratification affect fisheries?
    a) Enhances nutrient mixing
    b) Reduces surface nutrient availability, lowering productivity
    c) Increases upwelling
    d) No impact
    Answer: b) Reduces surface nutrient availability, lowering productivity
44. What is a potential socio-economic impact of fish stock shifts?
    a) Reduced conflicts between nations
    b) Increased disputes over fishing boundaries
    c) Stable fish prices
    d) No effect on livelihoods
    Answer: b) Increased disputes over fishing boundaries
45. Which factor is likely to worsen with climate change, affecting fish health?
    a) Reduced disease outbreaks
    b) Increased marine pathogens
    c) Stronger fish immune systems
    d) Fewer harmful algal blooms
    Answer: b) Increased marine pathogens

46. How does climate change threaten global seafood security?
    a) By increasing fish stocks everywhere
    b) By reducing catches, especially in tropical regions
    c) Only affecting luxury species
    d) No significant impact
    Answer: b) By reducing catches, especially in tropical regions
47. Which policy framework addresses climate-fisheries interactions?
    a) CITES
    b) IPCC Special Report on Oceans and Cryosphere
    c) Montreal Protocol
    d) Basel Convention
    Answer: b) IPCC Special Report on Oceans and Cryosphere
48. What is the “Paris Agreement’s” relevance to fisheries?
    a) It bans all fishing
    b) It promotes climate adaptation in fisheries
    c) It ignores oceans
    d) It subsidizes fossil fuels
    Answer: b) It promotes climate adaptation in fisheries
49. Which group is most reliant on fish for protein and thus vulnerable to climate impacts?
    a) Urban populations
    b) Coastal communities in developing countries
    c) Livestock farmers
    d) Arctic indigenous peoples only
    Answer: b) Coastal communities in developing countries
50. What is a key adaptation strategy for fishers facing stock shifts?
    a) Ignoring changes
    b) Diversifying target species
    c) Increasing fuel subsidies
    d) Fishing in protected areas
    Answer: b) Diversifying target species

51. What is the primary cause of expanding oceanic dead zones?
    a) Overfishing
    b) Nutrient runoff + warming waters reducing oxygen solubility
    c) Increased ocean circulation
    d) Coral reef growth
    Answer: b) Nutrient runoff + warming waters reducing oxygen solubility
52. Which fish group is most vulnerable to deoxygenation?
    a) Fast-swimming pelagic fish (e.g., tuna)
    b) Benthic invertebrates (e.g., crabs)
    c) Air-breathing marine mammals
    d) Intertidal algae
    Answer: a) Fast-swimming pelagic fish (high oxygen demand)
53. The “oxygen minimum zone” (OMZ) expansion is worst in:
    a) Polar seas
    b) Tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans
    c) Atlantic gyres
    d) Coastal upwelling zones only
    Answer: b) Tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans
54. How does deoxygenation affect fish body size?
    a) Promotes gigantism
    b) Reduces average size (stunting)
    c) No effect
    d) Increases size in warm waters
    Answer: b) Reduces average size (stunting)
55. Which mitigation strategy can reduce dead zones?
    a) Increasing fertilizer use in agriculture
    b) Reducing nitrogen runoff from farms
    c) Expanding bottom trawling
    d) Dumping iron into oceans
    Answer: b) Reducing nitrogen runoff from farms

56. Why are women in small-scale fisheries disproportionately affected by climate change?
    a) They dominate industrial fishing
    b) They rely on near-shore resources vulnerable to climate shocks
    c) They avoid fishing during storms
    d) They focus only on aquaculture
    Answer: b) They rely on near-shore resources vulnerable to climate shocks
57. How does climate change alter women’s roles in fisheries post-harvest?
    a) Increases their access to deep-sea fishing
    b) Reduces fish availability, increasing their unpaid labor in processing
    c) Eliminates gender disparities
    d) No impact
    Answer: b) Reduces fish availability, increasing unpaid labor
58. Which policy approach promotes gender equity in climate-adapted fisheries?
    a) Ignoring gender differences
    b) Including women in decision-making on resource management
    c) Banning women from fishing
    d) Focusing only on industrial fisheries
    Answer: b) Including women in decision-making
59. Climate-induced male migration in fishing communities often leads to:
    a) Reduced women’s workload
    b) Feminization of fisheries (women taking on more roles)
    c) No change in gender roles
    d) Increased child labor only
    Answer: b) Feminization of fisheries
60. Which UN agreement explicitly links gender, climate, and fisheries?
    a) SDG 14 (Life Below Water) + SDG 5 (Gender Equality)
    b) Kyoto Protocol
    c) Basel Convention
    d) CITES
    Answer: a) SDG 14 + SDG 5

61. How do fish contribute to the “biological carbon pump”?
    a) By exhaling CO₂
    b) By transporting carbon to depth via fecal pellets and diel migration
    c) By increasing ocean acidity
    d) By preventing phytoplankton growth
    Answer: b) Transporting carbon to depth
62. Which fish group is most efficient at carbon sequestration?
    a) Benthic flatfish
    b) Mesopelagic lanternfish (dominant in twilight zone)
    c) Coral reef fish
    d) Surface-dwelling jellyfish
    Answer: b) Mesopelagic lanternfish
63. Overfishing mesopelagic fish could:
    a) Enhance carbon storage
    b) Disrupt the carbon pump, reducing sequestration
    c) Increase ocean oxygen
    d) No climate impact
    Answer: b) Disrupt the carbon pump
64. “Blue carbon” ecosystems (mangroves, seagrasses) store __ times more carbon per area than terrestrial forests.
    a) 2-3x
    b) 5-10x
    c) 20-50x
    d) 100x
    Answer: b) 5-10x
65. How does trawling impact seabed carbon stores?
    a) Releases buried CO₂ into the water column
    b) Increases carbon sequestration
    c) No effect
    d) Promotes seagrass growth
    Answer: a) Releases buried CO₂

66. What are “climate refugia” in marine systems?
    a) Areas where species go extinct first
    b) Zones buffered from climate change (e.g., deep trenches, upwelling shadows)
    c) Only coral reefs
    d) Artificial reefs
    Answer: b) Zones buffered from climate change
67. Which region is a potential climate refuge for coral reefs?
    a) Equatorial Pacific
    b) Eastern Tropical Pacific (cooler upwelled waters)
    c) Arctic Ocean
    d) Baltic Sea
    Answer: b) Eastern Tropical Pacific
68. How can fisheries management protect climate refugia?
    a) By banning fishing in refugia zones
    b) Ignoring them in marine planning
    c) Increasing trawling in refugia
    d) Only protecting surface waters
    Answer: a) Banning fishing in refugia zones
69. Deep-sea coral reefs are refugia because they:
    a) Are immune to acidification
    b) Experience slower temperature changes than shallow reefs
    c) Cannot host any fish species
    d) Only exist in the Arctic
    Answer: b) Experience slower temperature changes
70. Which tool identifies climate refugia for conservation planning?
    a) Species distribution models (SDMs)
    b) Fish aggregating devices (FADs)
    c) Trawl nets
    d) Satellite altimetry only
    Answer: a) Species distribution models (SDMs)

71. The “borealization” of Arctic fisheries refers to:
    a) Replacement of Arctic species by temperate species moving north
    b) Increased ice cover
    c) Decline in all fish stocks
    d) Acidification only
    Answer: a) Replacement of Arctic species by temperate species
72. How does the “Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)” slowdown affect fisheries?
    a) Increases productivity in the North Atlantic
    b) Reduces nutrient supply, disrupting food webs
    c) No impact
    d) Causes tropical species to move south
    Answer: b) Reduces nutrient supply
73. Poleward shifts in fish distributions are __ km per decade on average.
    a) 5-10 km
    b) 50-80 km
    c) 200-300 km
    d) 500+ km
    Answer: b) 50-80 km
74. Which phytoplankton group is favored under climate change, altering food webs?
    a) Diatoms
    b) Coccolithophores
    c) Cyanobacteria (smaller, less nutritious)
    d) Macroalgae
    Answer: c) Cyanobacteria
75. “Stratification” reduces productivity by:
    a) Enhancing upwelling
    b) Limiting nutrient mixing to surface waters
    c) Increasing oxygen
    d) Cooling deep oceans
    Answer: b) Limiting nutrient mixing

76. How does Indigenous knowledge aid climate adaptation in fisheries?
    a) By ignoring traditional practices
    b) Through observations of species phenology and local refugia
    c) Only in Arctic regions
    d) By promoting trawling
    Answer: b) Observations of phenology/refugia
77. The “fishing down the food web” phenomenon worsens under climate change because:
    a) Fishers target smaller, lower-trophic species as large fish decline
    b) Trophic pyramids become more stable
    c) No linkage exists
    d) Only affects freshwater systems
    Answer: a) Targeting smaller species

76. How does Indigenous knowledge contribute to climate-resilient fisheries?
    a) By documenting long-term species behavior and refugia
    b) By promoting industrial fishing techniques
    c) Ignoring seasonal changes
    d) Relying solely on satellite data
    Answer: a) Documenting long-term species behavior and refugia
77. The “Te Arawa” people of New Zealand adapt to warming lakes by:
    a) Switching from trout to traditional species like kōura (crayfish)
    b) Increasing use of gillnets
    c) Abandoning fishing altogether
    d) Importing tropical fish
    Answer: a) Switching to traditional species like kōura
78. Indigenous “seawatching” practices in the Pacific help predict:
    a) Stock market trends
    b) Cyclones and fish migration shifts
    c) Ocean acidification pH levels
    d) Plastic pollution hotspots
    Answer: b) Cyclones and fish migration shifts
79. Why is Indigenous knowledge often excluded from fisheries policy?
    a) Perceived as “unscientific”
    b) It dominates IPCC reports
    c) It aligns perfectly with industrial fishing
    d) It’s only relevant in deserts
    Answer: a) Perceived as “unscientific”
80. The “Inuit Sentinel” program in Canada is an example of:
    a) Using Indigenous observations to monitor Arctic ecosystem changes
    b) A new trawling technology
    c) A deep-sea mining initiative
    d) Banning traditional fishing
    Answer: a) Indigenous monitoring of Arctic changes

81. The “RBFM” (Risk-Based Fisheries Management) framework prioritizes:
    a) Ignoring climate uncertainty
    b) Managing stocks based on climate vulnerability assessments
    c) Subsidizing overfishing
    d) Fixing quotas to 1950s levels
    Answer: b) Climate vulnerability assessments
82. How does climate change affect the discount rate in fishery economics?
    a) Encourages short-term exploitation (higher discounting)
    b) Promotes long-term conservation (lower discounting)
    c) No impact
    d) Only relevant to aquaculture
    Answer: a) Short-term exploitation (higher discounting)
83. The “Pella-Tomlinson” model is used to:
    a) Predict stock collapses under climate stressors
    b) Design fishing gear
    c) Measure ocean acidity
    d) Track bird migrations
    Answer: a) Predict stock collapses under climate stressors
84. Climate-related “fish price shocks” disproportionately affect:
    a) High-income countries
    b) Low-income fish-dependent communities
    c) Only tuna markets
    d) No one; prices are stable
    Answer: b) Low-income fish-dependent communities
85. The “Green Paradox” in fisheries refers to:
    a) Fishers exploiting stocks faster anticipating future restrictions
    b) Ocean acidification benefits
    c) Coral reefs growing under warming
    d) Government subsidies reducing catches
    Answer: a) Preemptive overfishing due to policy fears

86. The “Arctic fishing moratorium” (2018) aims to prevent:
    a) Overexploitation of newly accessible stocks due to ice melt
    b) Deep-sea mining
    c) Indigenous fishing rights
    d) Oil spills
    Answer: a) Overexploitation of new stocks
87. Why do “transboundary fish stocks” create climate policy conflicts?
    a) Shifting stocks cross EEZ boundaries, causing allocation disputes
    b) They only exist in the high seas
    c) No international laws exist
    d) They’re unaffected by warming
    Answer: a) Allocation disputes due to shifting stocks
88. The “PSMA” (Port State Measures Agreement) combats:
    a) Illegal fishing exacerbated by climate-driven stock shifts
    b) Ocean acidification
    c) Coral bleaching
    d) Aquaculture pollution
    Answer: a) Illegal fishing due to stock shifts
89. Which treaty governs fishing in the high seas under climate change?
    a) UNFCCC
    b) UNCLOS + BBNJ Agreement (2023)
    c) CITES
    d) Kyoto Protocol
    Answer: b) UNCLOS + BBNJ Agreement
90. Climate-induced “fisher migration” (e.g., Senegal to Europe) is driven by:
    a) Declining catches + economic desperation
    b) Increased fish abundance
    c) Government incentives to leave
    d) No connection to fisheries
    Answer: a) Declining catches + desperation

91. AI-powered “Fisher’s Eye” tools help:
    a) Predict optimal fishing zones using SST and chlorophyll data
    b) Design trawl nets
    c) Increase bycatch
    d) Track ocean acidification
    Answer: a) Predict fishing zones using satellite data
92. Environmental DNA (eDNA) aids climate adaptation by:
    a) Detecting species shifts in warming waters
    b) Measuring salinity
    c) Increasing fish growth rates
    d) Replacing all traditional surveys
    Answer: a) Detecting species shifts
93. “Smart buoys” with sensors monitor:
    a) Real-time temperature, O₂, and fish acoustics
    b) Only ship traffic
    c) Plastic waste
    d) Bird migrations
    Answer: a) Real-time temperature/O₂/fish data
94. Blockchain in fisheries addresses climate challenges by:
    a) Ensuring traceability to combat illegal fishing
    b) Increasing fuel use
    c) Promoting overfishing
    d) Ignoring stock shifts
    Answer: a) Traceability to combat illegality
95. “Omics” technologies (genomics, proteomics) help:
    a) Identify climate-resilient fish stocks for breeding
    b) Design fishing gear
    c) Measure ocean pH
    d) Track fishing vessels
    Answer: a) Identify resilient stocks

96. “Climate justice” in fisheries emphasizes:
    a) Equitable burden-sharing for vulnerable small-scale fishers
    b) Industrial fleets’ rights to expand
    c) Ignoring Indigenous rights
    d) Prioritizing Arctic drilling
    Answer: a) Equity for vulnerable fishers
97. The “precautionary principle” in climate-fisheries policy means:
    a) Avoiding action until 100% certainty is achieved
    b) Taking preventive measures despite uncertainty
    c) Banning all fishing
    d) Only protecting charismatic species
    Answer: b) Preventive measures despite uncertainty
98. By 2100, the “tropicalization” of temperate fisheries will likely:
    a) Increase invasive species (e.g., lionfish in Mediterranean)
    b) Restore Arctic cod dominance
    c) Have no ecological impact
    d) Cool equatorial oceans
    Answer: a) Increase invasives (e.g., lionfish)
99. The “Blue Economy” concept risks:
    a) Greenwashing unsustainable industrial fishing
    b) Exclusively supporting small-scale fishers
    c) Ignoring climate change
    d) Banning all marine activities
    Answer: a) Greenwashing industrial fishing
100. The most critical need for climate-ready fisheries is:
     a) Integrated policies (ecological + social + economic)
     b) Doubling fishing subsidies
     c) Ignoring traditional knowledge
     d) Focusing only on aquaculture
     Answer: a) Integrated policies