As the cod population increased due to harvesting, it could have had various impacts on herring and anchovy populations:
1. Competition: With more cod consuming similar prey as herring and anchovies, there could be increased competition for food resources. This competition may result in a decline in herring and anchovy populations due to food scarcity.
2. Predation: An increase in cod population could lead to higher predation pressure on herring and anchovies. This could result in a decrease in the herring and anchovy populations as they become more vulnerable to predation.
3. Trophic Cascade: Changes in the cod population can also trigger a trophic cascade effect in the marine ecosystem. For example, if cod prey heavily on herring, which in turn feed on anchovies, a decrease in herring population due to cod predation could indirectly impact anchovy populations.
4. Habitat Alteration: The increase in cod population might also lead to habitat alterations, affecting the availability of suitable habitats for herring and anchovies. Changes in habitat quality can directly impact the survival and reproduction of herring and anchovy populations.
Overall, the increase in cod population due to harvesting can have negative consequences on herring and anchovy populations through competition, predation, trophic interactions, and habitat alterations in the marine ecosystem.
