- Rapidly warming seas around Britain are causing significant shifts in marine species, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the UK's fishing industry.
- A marine heatwave has resulted in record average temperatures in UK waters over the first seven months of the year, with an intense heatwave in May elevating temperatures by up to 4C.
- New species including jellyfish, spider crabs, sardines, anchovies, bluefin tuna, and an unexpected influx of octopus are becoming more abundant in British waters.
- Conversely, traditional species such as brown crabs, cod, and haddock are declining or moving further north to cooler waters.
- While most cod and haddock consumed in Britain are imported, the changing marine environment means UK fishers are increasingly targeting cephalopods like squid and octopus, prompting calls for the public to diversify their seafood consumption.
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