A review on the impacts of climate variability on small pelagic fish stock variability with special emphasis on the Indian west coast

The impact of climate change on small pelagic fish stock arises from direct and indirect effects on environmental parameters that affect their physiology, metabolism, reproduction, survival, and growth. The present study highlights the sensitivity of small pelagic fish to environmental variables and explains how climate change can alter fishery along the Indian west coast. Owing to limited regional literature, this study relies on global knowledge to detail the direct relationship between these parameters and the fishery. Small pelagics exhibited apparent stock fluctuations in response to environmental changes, with large-scale climate oscillations playing a significant role in their abundance or scarcity. Most studies have focused on oil sardine variability, while other species remain understudied. Catch data, being the most consistent and reliable dataset available, are commonly used to analyze the impact of climate change. More scientific expeditions and cruises are needed to gather data on abundance, spawning biomass, and other factors essential for modeling studies. This work also summarizes current research gaps and future perspectives. Climate change threatens protein-rich food supplies, the economy, and employment. Understanding and documenting the effects of climate variables on fisheries is crucial for implementing mitigation and adaptation policies to minimize the impact.