This paper argues that scientists need to better understand the impacts of climate change on aquaculture if we are to meet future seafood demand.

It highlights the risks of increased fish disease as a result of climate change and calls for a mapping of the potential risks and the identification of suitable adaptation and mitigation intervention strategies.

Fish farms in tropical zones, the paper notes, experience higher cumulative mortalities and faster progression of diseases which could be exacerbated by climate change. With the threat of climate change bringing more disease, the paper notes that there is a need to develop stronger biosecurity governance mechanisms to manage risks associated with spread of aquatic animal pathogens.

The paper also highlights increased salinity and seawater intrusion as an issue with recommendations to invest in breeding programs for salinity adaptation. It also recommends a holistic approach which considers all forms of agriculture in order that the most climate smart systems can be recommended.

[Adapted from source]