Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Sustainable seafood refers to seafood that is caught or farmed using methods that do not harm the environment or deplete fish populations. It ensures that fishing practices are managed responsibly for long-term ecological balance.
Overfishing occurs when more fish are caught than can be naturally replenished, leading to depleted fish populations. It is one of the main reasons why sustainable seafood practices are necessary.
Bycatch: Bycatch refers to non-target species that are unintentionally caught while fishing for a different species. Sustainable seafood practices aim to minimize bycatch and reduce the negative impact on non-target species.
Marine Stewardship Council (MSC): The MSC is an international organization that sets standards for sustainable fishing and certifies fisheries that meet these standards. Their certification helps consumers identify sustainable seafood options.