Author(s): Lemma Abera Hirpo

Abstract: This paper reviews the impacts of climate change on fisheries, with particular reference to the tropics to assess what happens to the aquatic life in different ecosystems as the climate changes. The general effects of climate change on freshwater systems are likely to be increased water temperatures, decreased dissolved oxygen levels, change in perception and other variables, such as wind velocity, wave action and flooding, which can bring about significant ecological and biological changes to freshwater ecosystems. Furthermore, some anthropogenic responses to climate change (improper water utilization, distraction of freshwater side vegetation, improper wetland resource utilization) will exacerbate its already-detrimental effects. This could alter food webs and change habitat availability and quality. Fish physiology is inextricably linked to temperature and other environmental factors that fish have evolved to cope with specific hydrologic regimes and habitat niches. Therefore, their physiology and life histories will be affected by alterations induced by climate change. Therefore, proactive management strategies such as strengthening of capacity, governments and civil society; Supporting adaptation and mitigation measures by rural/urban people particularly the most vulnerable sectors of the society; Adding value to existing adaptation and mitigation initiatives to enable tropical scientists to apply expertise and carry out research in support of adaptation projects in land-water interface ecosystem; Increasing awareness of all stakeholders, including policy makers; and improving on efficient use of current use of water and water-related resources, including fisheries will be necessary to sustain tropical fisheries.

Pages: 122-127  |  987 Views  159 Downloads

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