Marine Animals

Antarctic Krill Fisheries and Ecosystem Welfare Impacts

Krill fishing in Antarctica affects penguins, whales, seals, and seabirds that depend on krill as their primary food source.

Key Facts

Antarctic krill support the entire Southern Ocean food web
Krill fishing is concentrated in areas of highest penguin and whale feeding
Fishing quotas are set but spatial overlap with wildlife feeding areas is a concern
Omega-3 supplements drive significant krill fishing demand globally

Welfare Considerations

While krill themselves may have limited pain capacity, removing krill from penguin and whale feeding grounds affects the welfare of multiple dependent species through starvation. Krill concentrations in certain fjords and bays are critical breeding-season food sources for animals whose chick or calf survival depends on energy availability. Shifting omega-3 supplement sources and sustainable fishing practices protect the broader ecosystem.

What You Can Do

Choose algae-based omega-3 supplements rather than krill oil
Support Marine Stewardship Council certified sustainable fishing in the Southern Ocean
Advocate for marine protected areas restricting krill fishing in wildlife feeding areas
Follow and support policy processes at the Commission for Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources