Predicting Adaptations of Fish and Fishing Communities to Rapid Climate Velocities in Canadian Waters: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Communities along Canada's three coastlines rely heavily on the $3,500 million marine aquaculture and fishery sectors, but the changing climate threatens their viability. Adapting to climate change in fisheries is becoming increasingly critical in international policies as ocean conditions are expected to change dramatically. These changes are anticipated to include significant shifts in sea surface temperatures, ocean acidification levels, ocean currents, weather patterns, and overall ecosystem dynamics. Such dramatic alterations in ocean conditions necessitate proactive measures to address the resulting impacts on fish populations, the sustainability of marine resources, and the communities that rely on them.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between fishing and climate velocity, focusing on how it affects marine fish abundance and distribution. It also seeks to understand how fishers and fishing communities adapt to variations in species ranges while identifying incentives that promote the sustainability of marine life and maintain economic balance in the context of climate change.

Methods: To answer these questions, we systematically reviewed existing research from multiple databases, including ACM Digital Library, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and Web of Science. The studies reviewed were published from 2012 to 2022.

Results: We identified a total of 4956 studies, and after conducting a thorough evaluation, we selected 23 studies that met our predetermined criteria for inclusion in the systematic review. Our analysis uncovered a strong correlation between climate change and habitat modification, significantly impacting multiple fish species. The findings from this study also revealed that such risks have direct consequences on the distribution of fish, as well as on the angling industry and the communities that rely on it.

Conclusion: By examining this extensive literature, we aimed to gain valuable insights, identify trends, and uncover any gaps in knowledge related to fish distribution and abundance in Canada's waters.

Keywords: Climate change impacts, Marine fish abundance, Fishing communities, Sustainability in fisheries, Canadian waters, Species ranges, Climate velocity, Angling industry, Adaptation, fish

JEL Classification: Q22, Q54, Q57