Kimberly Riskas’s Contributions:
How a Frenzy for Echinoderms Exposed and Entrenched Inequities in a Fishing Community
In 2011, a covert trade in sea cucumbers exploded on the island nation of Palau, nearly decimating the animal population. Women are still paying the price 10 years later.
May 27, 2021 | 800 words, about 4 minutes
The Shady Practices That Plague Global Fishing
From setting up shell companies to using tax havens, the owners of fishing vessels employ extreme measures to hide their identities.
Mar 1, 2021 | 700 words, about 3 minutes
Lack of Consensus Leaves Tuna in Legal Limbo
Regulators failed to preserve protections for eastern tropical Pacific tuna—a situation they’ll be pressed to fix at an upcoming emergency meeting.
Dec 16, 2020 | 600 words, about 3 minutes
Unregulated Swaths of the Indian Ocean Are Leaving Species Vulnerable to Overfishing
In the absence of adequate oversight, fishing fleets are exploiting international waters in the Indian Ocean.
Nov 6, 2020 | 650 words, about 3 minutes
Rock-a-bye Shark-y
Researchers may have finally found evidence for sleep in sharks.
Sep 9, 2020 | 550 words, about 2 minutes
When the Day’s Catch Includes Cocaine and Heroin
Around the world, artisanal fishers play an overlooked role in drug trafficking.
Jul 16, 2020 | 600 words, about 3 minutes
Farmed Shellfish Is Not Immune to Climate Change
Touted as a sustainable source of protein, shellfish aquaculture may reach a tipping point by 2060.
Jun 18, 2020 | 500 words, about 2 minutes
Potential Perils of a Modern-Day Silk Road
With new and expanded ports, China’s Belt and Road Initiative could further threaten ailing marine life.
Apr 23, 2020 | 550 words, about 2 minutes
Indian Ocean By-catch Claims Millions of Dolphins
Gill net fisheries in the ocean have killed four million dolphins since 1950.
Apr 1, 2020 | 450 words, about 2 minutes
The African Coastline Is a Battleground for Foreign Fleets and Artisanal Fishers
It’s illegal and dangerous for industrial boats to encroach on fishing zones reserved for local communities.
Feb 5, 2020 | 400 words, about 2 minutes
Dolphins to Drones: Beat It, Bozo
Drones affect species differently. For bottlenose dolphins, they’re a source of stress.
Nov 6, 2019 | 500 words, about 2 minutes
The Indian Ocean’s Great Disappearing Garbage Patch
For better or worse, oceanographic and meteorological forces in the Indian Ocean seem to be preventing plastic from accumulating to form a garbage patch.
Jun 19, 2019 | 500 words, about 2 minutes
Fuel Tankers Help Highlight Illegal Fishing Hotspots
Bunker vessels are one of the most connected ships at sea; tracking them could pinpoint clusters of illegal fishing.
Jan 17, 2019 | 650 words, about 3 minutes