No more tuna salad

There are indications that the bluefin tuna, one of the largest fish in the ocean, may be heading for extinction as early as three years from now. The main cause of the bluefin's plight is massive over fishing from the netting technique called "purse seine fishing". Attempts to regulate over fishing is difficult to say the least because of all the countries involved. The skipjack, which is used the most in tuna salad and casseroles, is also at risk. This abundant fish travels with the bluefin. If and when the bluefin vanishes, it is very likely the skipjack will disappear too.

Perhaps the best way to reverse the decline of the bluefin is to replace the purse seine technique with good ole' fashion pool & line. This will allow countries to more efficiently manage the fishing industry. First, nets will no longer be used should this pool & line technique be adapted, resulting in young and small fish being released. Second, dolphins, sea turtles and sharks will no longer suffer a horrible death tangled in nets. Finally, the numbers of caught fish would be recorded more effectively therefore preventing over fishing.

Hopefully the message of efficient management of the fishing industry will continue. Now it is the bluefin. Should over fishing practices continue at its current pace, next will be trout followed by everything else.