AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti, File

What's The Problem? During the 20th century, as consumers became accustomed to having every type of fish available, large commercial fleets began depleting fish populations to meet consumers' expectations. In 2003, a report estimated commercial fishing had reduced big sea fish to just 10% of their previous population. A study in Science predicts that if overfishing continues at its current rate, then the world's fisheries will collapse by 2048.

What Can Be Done? Scientists say some fish populations could be restored with better fishing practices and laws. Alternatives, such as aquaculture, would reduce overfishing in the ocean. Also, individuals must take for granted eating a wide variety of seafood.