Overfishing threatens reefs in the Coral Triangle

[Barrett808]

An insatiable appetite for reef fish like snapper in Hong Kong and other markets is fuelling over-fishing in the Coral Triangle, a key area for marine biodiversity, experts said Tuesday.

The trade is encouraging fishermen to use cyanide and explosives that destroy reefs and fish hatcheries essential for the industry's future, they said. ...

"Over-fishing and destructive fishing practices such as the use of cyanide and explosives are being driven by an increasing demand for seafood across the Asian-Pacific," said Geoffrey Muldoon, of environmental group WWF.

He said the problem was being "exacerbated by the lack of effective systems to sustainably manage this burgeoning industry". ...

Overfishing threatens reefs in the Coral Triangle