A Literature Review on the Impact of Climate Change on Maldivian fisheries

Climate change is reshaping the ocean on which Maldivian fisheries and fishing communities depend. Rising ocean temperatures, coral bleaching, acidification and changing ocean conditions are expected to affect tuna, livebait, reef fish and other important fisheries, with consequences for livelihoods, food security and the wider economy.

This literature review brings together existing research on the impacts of climate change on Maldivian fisheries and considers what these changes could mean for the future. It highlights both the growing risks facing fish stocks and marine ecosystems and the actions that can strengthen their resilience, from maintaining healthy fish populations and protecting critical habitats to improving monitoring and supporting fishing communities to adapt.

The review reinforces a clear message: while the Maldives cannot address the global drivers of climate change alone, we can strengthen the resilience of our fisheries and the people who depend on them.