What is the definition of overfishing?

Overfishing is defined as the practice of catching fish at a rate that exceeds the population's ability to replenish. This definition highlights the unsustainable nature of such fishing practices, where the number of fish being removed from the ecosystem surpasses the natural rate at which the fish can reproduce and maintain their population levels.

When overfishing occurs, it leads to a decline in fish populations, which can result in significant ecological disruptions. Healthy fish populations are crucial for maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems, and their decline can affect not only other species but also the livelihoods of people who depend on fishing for food and income. This definition captures the urgent need for sustainable management practices to protect fish species and their habitats for future generations.

In contrast, the other options discuss practices that either maintain stable fish populations or imply sustainable fishing, which are not pertinent to the definition of overfishing.