What question did this study set out to answer?

To analyze the historical conflict between fish farming and predators, specifically cormorants, and propose solutions.

February 14, 2026Open Access

Fish Farming and Predators – An Ongoing Conflict

Key Points

To analyze the historical conflict between fish farming and predators, specifically cormorants, and propose solutions.
Review of the historical context of the conflict between fish farmers and cormorants.
Analysis of proposed solutions over time.
Examination of recent approaches for balancing biodiversity and aquaculture sustainability.
Identified cormorants as significant predators of fish stocks in aquaculture.
Documented the escalation of conflicts due to rising fish farming.
Outlined solutions that aim to balance conservation efforts with economic needs.

Abstract

In the established definition adopted by the FAO, aquaculture involves, in addition to private ownership of stocks, their protection from predators. Among the oldest conflicts between fish farmers and predators is that with fish-eating birds, the most formidable of which, in terms of damage caused and adaptability, are cormorants. This paper analyses the history of this conflict, the causes that have intensified and exacerbated it, the solutions proposed over time, and the recent approach that aims to maintain a balance between the need to conserve biodiversity and the objectives of economic and social sustainability in aquaculture.

Fish Farming and Predators – An Ongoing Conflict

Key Points

Abstract

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