"The unprecedented haul is intensifying concerns over increasing strain from industrial fishing and climate change on marine life in the Southern Ocean, especially whales and penguins."
"Antarctica’s krill fishery has shut down months ahead of schedule after reaching its full seasonal catch-limit—a historic first. The early closure is fueling urgent calls to protect the Southern Ocean’s fragile marine ecosystems from mounting industrial fishing and climate change.
Typically, the fishery runs from December 1 to November 30. This year, it closed the first week of August, according to Javier Arata, executive officer of the Association of Responsible Krill Harvesting Companies (ARK). The organization includes 10 krill fishing companies and 12 vessels from China, Norway, South Korea, Chile and Ukraine. Together, these vessels catch up to 95 percent of the tiny crustaceans caught each year used to make omega-3 supplements, fish meal for farm-raised salmon and pet food.
There is concern among many scientists and conservationists that intensified krill fishing in concentrated areas could result in whales, penguins and other wildlife competing with the industry."
Teresa Tomassoni reports for Inside Climate News August 8, 2025.
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