Krill fishery in Antarctica shut down after record catch triggers unprecedented early closure

Officials have shut down the krill fishery near Antarctica early after exceeding the seasonal catch limit for the first time. This decision follows a report detailing a surge in krill catches after a conservation framework lapsed without a new plan. The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources confirmed the early closure of the 2024-25 season. The U.S., Russia, China, and other governments failed to approve a new management plan. Krill is crucial for marine ecosystems and climate change mitigation. Researchers highlight its role in removing 20 million tons of carbon annually from the atmosphere.