UK Edition
Squid and chips to replace cod and chips on dinner tables because of warming sea temperatures, scientists say
As a phrase, “squid and chips” does not exactly roll of the tongue, but as a dish it is something British diners may soon have to get used to.
Government scientists have predicted that the traditional national favourite of fish and chips will soon take on a distinctly Mediterranean flavour.
With warming sea temperatures hampering already badly damaged cod and haddock populations, fishermen will increasingly have to chase the once abundant white fish into colder, more northerly waters.
Meanwhile, squid is being spotted in more and more UK fishing areas, according to new research.
“UK consumers enjoy eating quite a limited range of seafood, but in the long-term we will need to adapt our diets,” said Dr John Pinnegar, of the Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas).
“In 2025 and beyond, we may need to replace cod and other old favourites with warm-water species such as squid, mackerel, sardine and red mullet.”
Summer squid fisheries are expanding rapidly in areas such as the Moray Firth, as efforts to reduce over-fishing have prevented vessels from pursuing more traditional species such as haddock and cod.
Data show that squid numbers have increased dramatically over the past 35 years.
In 1984, Cefas found squid at only 20% of its 76 survey stations in the North Sea, compared with 60% in 2014.
“I would anticipate that currently small-scale fisheries targeting warm-water species such as squid, sardine and anchovy will continue to expand,” said Dr Pinnegar.
“They will probably represent a greater share of UK fisheries catches in 10 years’ time.”
The research will be presented today at the British Ecological Society annual meeting in Liverpool.