Antarctic Fish: The Importance of Research Programs in Coastal Waters

Abstract

Antarctic fish are an exploitable living resource in one of the most remote regions of the planet. Despite efforts to conserve certain sectors of the Southern Ocean, as well as some of the most emblematic fish species, the pressure from commercial fisheries remains constant. In this context, obtaining knowledge about Antarctic ichthyofauna is crucial to provide new insights that contribute to the development of conservation measures for the Antarctic ecosystem in a changing environment, such as the problematic context of climate change. Research programs in coastal or “inshore” waters provide valuable information to complement the understanding of species’ life cycles and their role in the ecosystem.