Future fisheries under climate change: the missing role of zooplankton (2019–2022)

Abstract:
Fish are the main source of protein for 3 billion people, yet fish catches are declining. Current models of future fish biomass under climate change do not consider the complex role that zooplankton play in transferring energy from phytoplankton to fish. This research aims to make an innovative leap by developing the first global ecosystem model with a more realistic representation of zooplankton. By resolving this link between phytoplankton and fish, this project will vastly improve estimates of future global fisheries production and how it is likely to vary regionally. Such knowledge is vital for future food security in Australia and globally, and also to understand the role of zooplankton in carbon export in the ocean.
Grant type:
ARC Discovery Projects
Researchers:
  • Professor
    School of the Environment
    Faculty of Science
    Professor
    School of the Environment
    Faculty of Science
    Affiliate of Centre for Biodiversit
    Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science
    Faculty of Science
Funded by:
Australian Research Council