Call to protect the ocean's blue giants

EVERY year on May 2, World Tuna Day draws attention to one of the ocean's most ecologically and economically vital fish species.

- DR CAREL OOSTHUIZEN

Tuna fish are more than just a prized catch - they are apex predators that maintain marine ecosystem balance, support global food security and drive coastal economies. Yet overfishing, climate change, and habitat degradation threaten their survival. As we observe this day, we must recognise the urgent need for sustainable management to ensure that tuna remain a thriving part of our oceans.

Globally, tuna fisheries generate billions of dollars annually, making them a critical resource. However, illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing and bycatch (such as sharks and sea turtles) exacerbate population decline. There are 15 species of tuna, and their conservation status varies. Many face significant pressures; according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List, several key species are at risk.

The southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) is endangered because of historical overfishing; bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) is vulnerable, with declining stocks in some regions; yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) is vulnerable and facing intense fishing pressure; while skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) is the most resilient and classified as “least concern”, but requires careful monitoring.