Antarctica krill whales global warming fishing boom.

Fishing for krill near Antarctica has surged to a record high, nearing a seasonal catch limit that could close the fishery early. This boom follows last year’s failure by several governments to approve a new management plan. In the first seven months of the 2024-25 season, krill fishing reached 518,568 tons, about 84% of the 620,000-ton limit. The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources reported a nearly 60% increase in one area. Krill are crucial for marine ecosystems and climate regulation, but increased demand and fishing pressure threaten their stocks.