Inland Fisheries

1.4.1. Introduction

Inland fisheries are a vital component in the livelihoods of people in many parts of the world, in both developing and developed countries. Inland fisheries provide high quality protein, essential nutrients and minerals that are often difficult to obtain from other food sources. In developing areas, inland fisheries provide economic opportunities and a “safety net” that allows for continued food production when other sectors may fail. In developed countries, and in an increasing number of developing countries, inland fisheries are used for recreation rather than for food production, another avenue to economic development and growth. However, the status of inland fishery resources and the ecosystems that support them is generally poorly known. This has led to differing views on the actual status of many resources. One view maintains that, because of the multiple uses of and threats to inland water ecosystems, the sector is in serious trouble. The other view holds that the sector is infact growing and that much of the production and growth has gone unreported. The statistics reported to FAO indicate an overall increase of 1.6 million tonnes in the period 2004–08, and in 2008 the sector contributed 10.2 million tonnes to global capture fisheries production – a record contribution.