Fisheries

Fisheries are very important for man because they provide huge amount of food in the shape of fish. About 38 million people around the world are emplyed in this occupation. in 2005, total amount of fish captured amounted to 22 kilograms per capita at international level. Thus, the global harvest of fish is about 140 million metric tons. Ocean and seas are the largest source of fish with 90% of the world production whereas the remaining comes from the rivers, lakes and farms.

Fish Catching Areas:

Presently, China is the largest of fish followed by Peru, Chile, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, USA, India and Russia. About two third of total fish haul is consumed as food while the rest is used as fertilizers or feed. About 70% of the commercial fish is obtained from the Northern Hemisphere with the greatest catches taken between the Philippines and Japan. Other major fishing areas include the North Atlantic, North Pacific and North Sea. The most important areas of Southern Hemisphere are the Pacific coasts of Peru, Chile and the South Africa. Majority of fish haul comprises of herrings, sardines and anchoves. Other species of fish include cod, haddock, hake, redfish, sea bream, macherel, tuna and salmon.

Major fish catching nations (millions metric tons)