What is the effect of overfishing on marine ecosystems?

Overfishing significantly depletes fish populations and poses a serious threat to the survival of various species within marine ecosystems. When fish are removed from the ecosystem at a rate faster than they can reproduce, it leads to a decline in population numbers. This disruption can have cascading effects throughout the ecosystem, affecting predator-prey relationships and leading to imbalances. For instance, a decrease in a particular fish species may allow for the overpopulation of its prey, which can in turn result in habitat degradation.

Additionally, the removal of keystone species—those that have a disproportionately large effect on their environment—can lead to further instability in the ecosystem. This can ultimately threaten biodiversity and the overall health of marine habitats. The effects of overfishing extend beyond just the targeted species, impacting the entire food web and the ecological functions marine environments provide.