The reduction in phytoplankton, which supports zooplankton, fish, seabirds, and marine mammals, could disrupt the marine food web. Fisheries along the U.S. West Coast and the eastern equatorial Pacific are particularly vulnerable. Cold-water species may migrate north or to deeper waters, potentially reducing their growth and reproduction rates. Conversely, warm-water species like tuna may become more abundant closer to shore, creating new fishing opportunities. However, experts caution that El Niño increases the likelihood of low productivity conditions rather than guaranteeing specific outcomes. (Source: Newsweek, 2026-08-15 19:16 GMT)