Rising sea surface temperatures, ocean acidification, and rising sea level will all affect the fish Australia depends on for commercial and recreational fishing.

Fish body temperature is moderated by water temperature. Increased sea temperatures can affect important biological processes such as growth, reproduction, swimming ability and behaviour.

The affects of ocean acidification on carbon in the food chain will impact fish species through habitat and food availability. Fish eggs are more sensitive to pH changes than adults, so changes to the ocean chemistry may reduce fish populations.

Projected sea level rises suggest much of Queensland coast line will be inundated with water. The resulting changes to mangrove and seagrass beds will negatively effect the habitats providing protection and food resources for juvenile fish.