Biologist suggests halting ocean-based chinook salmon fisheries in Alaska and British Columbia to save orcas and increase salmon prey by 25%.
A biologist with the Wild Fish Conservancy proposes halting ocean-based chinook salmon fisheries in Alaska and British Columbia to save endangered southern resident orcas and wild salmon populations. Research indicates that suspending these fisheries could increase chinook abundance for the whales by 25%, providing them with the prey they need for survival. Ocean-based fisheries have been linked to the endangered orcas' starvation as they rely almost exclusively on chinook salmon for survival. The public can support a transition toward river-based salmon fisheries and sustainable fishing practices to help preserve wild salmon and orca populations, and ensure long-term recovery for these keystone species.
June 01, 2024
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