Inland fisheries are vital for the livelihoods and food resources of humans worldwide but their importance is underestimated, probably because large numbers of small, local operators are involved. This book defines what we have globally, what we are going to lose and mitigate for, and what, given the right tools, we can save. To estimate potential production, the dynamics of freshwater ecosystems (rivers, lakes and estuaries) need to be understood. As these dynamics are diverse so are the earth’s freshwater fisheries resources (from boreal to tropical regions), and these influence how fisheries are utilized and abused. Three main types of fisheries: artisanal, commercial and recreational, and the tools that have evolved for fisheries governance and management, including assessment methods are described. Fisheries development concentrates on improving fisheries through environmental and habitat evaluation, enhancement and rehabilitation, aquaculture, genetically modified fishes and sustainability. The negative impacts on fisheries include excessive harvesting, climate change, toxicology, impoundments, barriers and abstractions, non-native species and eutrophication. Finally, key areas of future research are outlined. The global approach makes this book, written by leading experts in the field, of interest to students, scientists, politicians and other policy makers and the informed layman.
