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Fishing down the food web refers to the phenomenon where fisheries shift from targeting large, high-trophic-level fish to smaller, lower-trophic-level species due to overfishing. In India, this trend is evident in local seafood products. For example, traditional catches like pomfret and seer fish have declined, leading to increased reliance on smaller fish such as sardines and mackerels. These are processed into items like dried fish, fish meal, and canned products, which are widely consumed and exported. This shift impacts marine ecosystems and local economies, highlighting the need for sustainable fishing practices in Indian waters. |
