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The unsustainability of the Omega-3 supply from seafood in the Mediterranean under global change

Author

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  • Lloret, Josep
  • Vila-Belmonte, Mar
  • Izquierdo, Angel
  • San, Joan
  • Biton-Porsmoguer, Sebastian

Abstract

This study, for the first time, examines the evolution of Omega-3 supply landed by local fisheries over time in the Mediterranean Sea, while considering trade-offs between species with varying temperature preferences. The province of Girona (northwestern Mediterranean, Spain) is used as our case study. Our results show that, between 2000 and 2023, there was a strong declining trend in the Omega-3 supplied by temperate and cold-water species (which have been negatively affected by overexploitation and climate change), and that this has not been compensated by the increase in the Omega-3 supplied by warm-water species (which have benefited from climate change). Considering the poor status of the Mediterranean stocks and the negative impacts of sea warming on Omega-3 production, our study provides empirical evidence that the self-sufficiency of Omega-3 supplied by seafood for future generations is far from assured.

Suggested Citation

  • Lloret, Josep & Vila-Belmonte, Mar & Izquierdo, Angel & San, Joan & Biton-Porsmoguer, Sebastian, 2025. "The unsustainability of the Omega-3 supply from seafood in the Mediterranean under global change," Food Policy, Elsevier, vol. 136(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jfpoli:v:136:y:2025:i:c:s0306919225001770
    DOI: 10.1016/j.foodpol.2025.102972
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