Suggested research and steps for the future

The concept of overfishing has caused enough controversy to suggest the need for policy making around the issue but we still don't have enough in depth research about how to go about fixing overfishing's negative affects on biodiversity, species depletion, habitat degradation and trophic cascades (12). Researchers need to create a more quantifiable method of determining optimum fishing practices to preserve sustainability. These methods need to not only account for species number but also other fluctuations in different aspects that contribute to the ecosystem and species' well being (12). Only once we determine the "known unknown" variables can we properly assess how to practically change our ways. The ocean is a little trickier to protect than land. Figure 15 shows that we can't exactly put up signs to keep fisheries out.

Figure 15. A less practical way to stop overfishing. www.joelapompe.com

Also, looking at historical data can aid in identifying the causes and rates of ecological change and help us form reasonable goals for restoration and management of fishing (14). Figure 16 jokes about how, throughout the past few decades, trophy fish have gotten smaller while humans have gotten fatter. Funny thing is: this is actually the case ( at least as far as trophy fish size goes).

Figure 16. Look at what we've observed so far. What is to come?www.greenvitals.net

One finding concerning overfishing management suggests to "keep things simple" by monitoring fisheries and forming goals that include: only catching fish that are at optimum, mature in growth as well as reproductive cycle and avoiding "mega spawners" that greatly contribute to species'  abundance. This method has been demonstrated on a few species of fish and is a method that allows for stakeholders (such as fisheries, fish dealers, grocery stores, consumers and politicians) to actively participate and become more informed on the impacts of their choices to change the affects of overfishing (15). Figure 17 gives an example of how YOU can make decisions and actively participate in helping the problem on a daily basis... although this example is kind of distorted...  

Figure 17. He's getting the idea! ...well kind of. www.markstivers.com