From ocean to markets: fish exports threaten nutrition security in coastal communities
Résumé
Decreasing fish catch threatens the food security and livelihoods of coral reef-dependent communities. However, coastal food systems are too often managed through the narrow lens of fish production, while accessibility also matters. Here, using small-scale fishery, socioeconomic, and interview data from five coastal districts of Palawan, Philippines, we show that fish consumption-an important driver of nutrition security, since energy, protein, and micronutrient intakes depend on the amount and type of fish consumed by residents-is not correlated with production, as a large share of the catch is exported, particularly reef fish. Pelagic and soft-bottom-associated species, on the other hand, are less frequently exported, cheaper, and locally preferred, making them a vital food safety net. We suggest that coral reef fisheries and blue food management should take into account species differences and post-harvest processes to ensure more equitable food outcomes for coastal communities.
Domaines
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