Black Sea Fish Species: Exploring the Rich Aquatic Biodiversity of the Region

The Black Sea, located between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, is a unique and semi-enclosed body of water known for its brackish waters and diverse marine life. Although it has lower salinity compared to oceans, the Black Sea supports a wide variety of fish species—many of which are commercially important, ecologically vital, and culturally significant.

Why the Black Sea is Unique

The Black Sea is a distinctive marine ecosystem. Its surface waters are oxygen-rich, while deeper waters are mostly anoxic due to limited mixing. This stratification significantly affects the types of species that can thrive in different layers of the sea.

Geographic and Environmental Features

• Surface salinity: 17–18 PSU (compared to 35 PSU in oceans)
• Connected to the Mediterranean via the Bosporus Strait
• Influenced by freshwater inflows from major rivers like the Danube and Dniester

Major Fish Species Found in the Black Sea

The Black Sea hosts a combination of marine, brackish, and anadromous fish. Below are some of the most common and notable species.

1. European Anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus)

One of the most abundant species in the Black Sea, European anchovy is a vital part of both the ecosystem and regional fishing industry.

• Size: Up to 20 cm
• Diet: Zooplankton and small invertebrates
• Economic Importance: High—used in fresh and canned products

2. Atlantic Bonito (Sarda sarda)

Known for its speed and strength, the Atlantic bonito is a seasonal visitor and a popular game fish.

• Appearance: Silver body with dark horizontal stripes
• Seasonal Migration: Enters the Black Sea in spring and summer

3. Black Sea Turbot (Scophthalmus maeoticus)

This flatfish species is highly valued for its delicate flavor and firm texture.

• Habitat: Shallow coastal zones and sandy seabeds
• Threats: Overfishing and habitat degradation

4. Goby Species (Gobiidae family)

Several goby species inhabit the Black Sea, playing a crucial role in the food web as prey for larger fish.

5. Sturgeon (Acipenseridae family)

Although their numbers have decreased significantly, sturgeons are ancient fish known for their caviar-producing roe.

• Common Types: Russian sturgeon, Beluga sturgeon
• Conservation Status: Critically endangered

Threats Facing Black Sea Fish Species

Despite its natural wealth, the Black Sea faces multiple environmental and human-induced challenges.

Pollution and Eutrophication

Industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and untreated sewage have led to nutrient overloads, causing algal blooms and oxygen depletion in coastal areas.

Overfishing

Unregulated fishing has severely impacted stocks of anchovies, turbot, and especially sturgeon.

Invasive Species

Species such as the comb jellyfish (Mnemiopsis leidyi) have disrupted the food chain, competing with native fish for resources.

Conservation and Sustainable Fishing

Efforts are underway to restore the Black Sea’s ecological balance. Countries surrounding the sea—including Turkey, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Romania, and Georgia—are collaborating on marine conservation and fisheries management.

Key Initiatives

• Fishing quotas and seasonal bans
• Marine protected areas
• Environmental monitoring and data sharing

Final Thoughts

The Black Sea is a vital resource that supports biodiversity, livelihoods, and cultural heritage. Preserving its rich array of fish species requires a combination of science, policy, and community engagement. As awareness grows, so does the hope for a more sustainable future for the sea and its aquatic life.