Why do fish die from overfishing?

1. Bycatch: Bycatch refers to the unintentional capture of non-target species, including fish, marine mammals, sea turtles, and seabirds, during fishing operations. When non-target species are caught, they may be injured or killed, resulting in unnecessary mortality. This can have negative impacts on the populations and ecosystems of these species.

2. Depletion of Food Sources: Overfishing can lead to the depletion of food sources for fish. When a large number of fish are removed from an ecosystem, the populations of prey species, such as smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans, can decline. This reduction in food availability can make it difficult for fish to survive and reproduce, leading to population declines.

3. Habitat Disruption: Fishing activities, such as trawling and dredging, can damage or disrupt critical fish habitats, such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. These habitats provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for fish and other marine life. When these habitats are damaged, fish populations can suffer, leading to overfishing vulnerability.

4. Competition for Resources: Overfishing can lead to increased competition for resources among fish species. When the number of fish in a population is reduced due to overfishing, the remaining fish may compete more intensely for food, space, and mates. This competition can hinder growth, reproduction, and overall fish survival, further contributing to population decline.

5. Disruption of Ecosystem Balance: Overfishing can disrupt the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. When populations of certain fish species are depleted, the predators that rely on them for food may suffer, leading to a decline in their populations as well. Additionally, the loss of fish can alter the food chain and nutrient cycling within the ecosystem, impacting other marine organisms and their habitats.