ConserveOnline - Coral decline threatens fish biodiversity in marine reserves

You are here: Home → workspaces → Resilient MPA Resources → MPA Publications → Coral decline threatens fish biodiversity in marine reserves

Coral decline threatens fish biodiversity in marine reserves

By Web Admin on 10/3/2006 | Keyword(s): Mpa publications

Marine reserves are traditionally thought to be able to protect fish from exploitation; however, “top down” management preventing the exploitation of reef fishes may not be enough. This 8-years study conducted in Papua New Guinea documents dramatic declines in fish populations, beyond predicted levels based on obligate coral reef associations. Declines in fish diversity occurred in approximately 75% of fish species surveyed and no difference was seen between the marine reserve areas and those lacking protection. Because few fish species are exploited in this area, these declines are likely due to habitat degradation. This paper is a call to arms for not just “top down” protection against human predators but the need for management strategies to address “bottom-up” processes (e.g. global warming, habitat change due to terrestrial run-off). Authors: Geoffrey P. Jones, Mark I McCormick, Maya Srinivasan, Janelle V. Eagle. PNAS 101: 8251-8253.

ConserveOnline is a part of the Conservation Commons. Some content may be subject to Creative Commons licenses.
© ConserveOnline.