Krill Fishing in Antarctica Reaches Record Levels After Collapse of Agreement

• Krill catch in Antarctica reached 518,568 tons, which triggers a recorded catch.
• The absence of an agreement led to the end of restrictions on krill catch.
• Krill is an important element of ecosystems and the fight against global warming.

Krill fishing near the shores of Antarctica has surged to record levels, approaching the maximum limit of catch that could lead to a sustainable fishery closure. This spike in krill catch occurred after last year, when a new agreement with management, supported by the USA, Russia, China, and other countries, could not be reached.

During the first seven months of the 2024-25 season, krill catch in Antarctica reached 518,568 tons, which is close to 84% of the limit of 620,000 tons. This recorded catch is noted among ecologists, especially since the catch has been concentrated in all smaller areas.

Krill is an important part of the diet of whales and plays a significant role in the fight against global warming. However, the increasing demand for krill, especially for the production of fish feed and food additives, leads to increased pressure on its stocks. In the previous season, a fleet of 12 industrial trawlers caught 498,350 tons of krill, which became the largest catch since 1973.

Due to the absence of an agreement, the restrictions on catch, introduced 15 years ago, ceased to operate, allowing the fleet to fish in any zone, including territories crucial for whales, penguins, and other wildlife. Currently, less than 5% of the Southern Ocean is protected.

Researchers calculated that krill annually removes carbon from the atmosphere and retains in the ocean 20 million tons of carbon, which is equivalent to the emissions of 5 million cars.

Tags: Ecology