Effects of Marine Heatwaves on Fish Population Dynamics in Coastal Ecosystems
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47672/ajns.2386Keywords:
Marine Heatwaves, Fish Population, Coastal EcosystemsAbstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the effects of marine heatwaves on fish population dynamics in coastal ecosystems.
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: Marine heatwaves (MHWs) have significant and multifaceted impacts on fish population dynamics in coastal ecosystems. These prolonged periods of unusually high sea temperatures can disrupt the delicate balance of marine environments, leading to adverse effects on fish species. One of the primary consequences of MHWs is the alteration of habitat conditions, which can result in shifts in species distribution as fish migrate to cooler waters. This migration often leads to changes in community composition and the displacement of both native and commercially important species. Moreover, MHWs can directly affect the physiological processes of fish, including growth, reproduction, and survival rates. Elevated temperatures can increase metabolic rates, leading to higher energy demands that may not be met if food resources are limited, ultimately affecting fish health and population sustainability. Additionally, MHWs can exacerbate the prevalence of diseases and parasites, further stressing fish populations. The impacts on juvenile fish are particularly concerning, as the survival rates of larvae and juveniles are critical for population replenishment. Warmer waters can disrupt spawning cycles and reduce the availability of suitable nursery habitats, leading to lower recruitment rates. These changes can have cascading effects on the entire marine food web, affecting not only fish populations but also the predators and prey that rely on them.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Climate change theory, ecosystem resilience theory and biogeography theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing effects of marine heatwaves on fish population dynamics in coastal ecosystems. Fisheries managers and practitioners should prioritize the implementation of adaptive management strategies that account for the dynamic nature of marine ecosystems influenced by climate change. Policymakers must urgently recognize the implications of marine heatwaves on fish population dynamics within the broader framework of climate change adaptation and mitigation.
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Copyright (c) 2024 James Ndegwa
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