Redfish Rivalry: The Battle for Dominance Between Gunsan and Chusan Islands
In a silent war over the prized redfish, Boksan Island in Sinan County, Jeollanam-do, and Gunsan City, Jeollabuk-do, are engaged in a fierce competition. The once-established equation of 'redfish equals Black Sand Island' is now under threat as climate change shifts the balance, with redfish caught off the coast of Gunsan claiming half of the national production.
The Escalating Competition
Gunsan's redfish production has surged due to rising water temperatures, marking a significant shift. In 2017, Gunsan's share was a mere 2%, but it rose to 45% (1417 tons) of the national production (3121 tons) in the last year. Meanwhile, Black Sand Island's redfish, which used to hold a 30% share, dropped to 14% (407 tons) in the same period.
Climate Change's Role
Both Gunsan and Black Sand Island catch the same species of redfish. Shaped like rhombi, similar to stingrays, these fish live for five to six years, spawning between fall and early spring. Climate change has altered water temperatures, leading to turbulent currents in the West Sea and establishing redfish fishing grounds in Gunsan for the past three to four years.
TAC System Dilemma
While South Korea has implemented a Total Allowable Catch (TAC) system since 1999 for various species, Gunsan is not subject to TAC regulations for redfish. This means that redfish can be caught year-round in Gunsan, contributing to the rise in production. On the contrary, Black Sand Island residents, dependent on redfish, advocate for expanding TAC to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
Economic Impact and Conservation Efforts
The redfish rivalry extends beyond economics, touching on environmental conservation. As calls for an expanded TAC grow, the government is considering the move cautiously, balancing the need for resource management with concerns about potentially diminishing the brand value of Black Sand Island redfish.
The Unique Story of Black Sand Island Redfish
Black Sand Island redfish has its unique identity, marked by a fishery traceability system since 2009. Consumers can trace the production history through QR codes, ensuring the authenticity of the product. Despite its popularity, challenges arise in meeting demand due to the scarcity of skilled individuals for fish slicing.
The Road Ahead
As the Ministry of Oceans and Atmospheric Affairs contemplates the expansion of TAC, the redfish rivalry raises crucial questions about sustainability, economic impact, and the conservation of a cherished local resource.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why is there a rivalry between Gunsan and Black Sand Island over redfish? A1: Climate change has shifted redfish fishing grounds, leading to increased production in Gunsan, causing a competition for dominance.
Q2: What is the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) system, and why is it relevant to redfish fishing? A2: TAC is a catch limit system to protect fisheries resources. While South Korea has implemented it since 1999, Gunsan is not subject to TAC regulations for redfish, contributing to increased production.
Q3: How does the redfish rivalry impact the environment? A3: The competition highlights the need for sustainable fishing practices to preserve the redfish population and maintain ecological balance.
Q4: What measures are in place to ensure the authenticity of Black Sand Island redfish? A4: Black Sand Island has a fishery traceability system, utilizing QR codes for consumers to trace the production history of redfish and differentiate it from others.
Q5: What challenges does Black Sand Island face in meeting the demand for redfish? A5: Despite high demand, the scarcity of skilled individuals for fish slicing poses challenges in fulfilling orders for Black Sand Island redfish.
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