1
|
Two Sides of the Same Coin: A Theoretical Framework for Strong Sustainability in Marine Protected Areas. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14106332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
In 2014, the Italian Ministry of the Environment and Protection of the Territory and the Sea (MATTM) launched the “Environmental Accounting in the Marine Protected Areas” (EAMPA) project, which proposed a new accounting model for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The model foresaw the integration of ecological and economic components in classical accounting schemes through the quantification of stock and flows embracing both the perspectives. The project, which ended in 2019, allowed the testing and the realization of the multidisciplinary framework. Later, in the context of the EU Interreg “Integrated management of ecological networks through parks and marine areas” (GIREPAM) project, an upgraded version of the EAMPA framework was developed, including additional but fundamental components leading to a more detailed and complete assessment as well as a better theoretical definition. The definitive management framework is outlined through the creation of the two parallel paths, but it provides as a final result three balances from the strong sustainability perspective: ecocentric, anthropocentric and integrated. To ensure that sustainability is obtained, all the three balances must guarantee a positive net benefit for humans and nature alike.
Collapse
|
2
|
Papantoniou G, Giannoulaki M, Stoumboudi MT, Lefkaditou E, Tsagarakis K. Food web interactions in a human dominated Mediterranean coastal ecosystem. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 172:105507. [PMID: 34742025 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2021.105507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Mediterranean coastal ecosystems provide various valuable ecosystem goods and services; however, they are vulnerable to ecological degradation due to a dramatic increase in resource use and environmental stress. Disentangling the effects of multiple human interventions on coastal ecosystems requires whole description of food web interactions using quantitative tools. A mass balance Ecopath model has been developed here for Saronikos Gulf, a naturally oligotrophic Mediterranean coastal ecosystem with a long history of human interventions. Our main focus was to describe the structure and functioning of the ecosystem, investigate the trophic interplay among the various compartments of the food web under the impact of mixed multi-gear fisheries, and to quantify resilience related emergent ecosystem properties. To this end, we reviewed a large amount of local and regional biological information which was integrated in 40 functional groups covering all trophic levels, while fishing activities were described with 7 fleets. The model shared characteristics of both productive (e.g., high amount of flows) and oligotrophic systems (e.g., low biomass accumulation) and presented typical features of Mediterranean ecosystem functioning, such as the importance of detritus as an energy source, strong benthic-pelagic coupling and the dominance of the pelagic compartment in terms of total production and consumption. Trophic forcing in the ecosystem of Saronikos Gulf was complex with both top-down and bottom-up drivers being important. Zooplankton was the central nexus between basal resources and higher trophic levels, while top predators such as hake, squids and anglerfish were identified as keystone species presenting a significant overall effect on the food web via direct and indirect trophic interactions. Ecological indicators depicted a moderately complex food-web of a large and immature ecosystem with its strengths in reserve being affected by environmental degradation. Additionally, exploitation indices classified fishing activities in Saronikos Gulf as unsustainable, affecting several target groups, including high trophic level species. However, the morphological and bathymetric complexity of Saronikos Gulf seems to function as a natural ecological reserve for the ecosystem by providing nursery grounds to various species (e.g., hake, small pelagic fishes) and supporting important fish stocks for local fisheries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Papantoniou
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters, 46.7 km Athinon-Souniou Ave, P.O. BOX 712, Anavyssos, GR19013, Greece.
| | - Marianna Giannoulaki
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters, P.O. Box 2214, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
| | - Maria Th Stoumboudi
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters, 46.7 km Athinon-Souniou Ave, P.O. BOX 712, Anavyssos, GR19013, Greece.
| | - Evgenia Lefkaditou
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters, 46.7 km Athinon-Souniou Ave, P.O. BOX 712, Anavyssos, GR19013, Greece.
| | - Konstantinos Tsagarakis
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters, 46.7 km Athinon-Souniou Ave, P.O. BOX 712, Anavyssos, GR19013, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Carlucci R, Manea E, Ricci P, Cipriano G, Fanizza C, Maglietta R, Gissi E. Managing multiple pressures for cetaceans' conservation with an Ecosystem-Based Marine Spatial Planning approach. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 287:112240. [PMID: 33740744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite the recognized important ecological role that cetaceans play in the marine environment, their protection is still scarcely enforced in the Mediterranean Sea even though this area is strongly threatened by local human pressures and climate change. The piecemeal of knowledge related to cetaceans' ecology and distribution in the basin undermines the capacity of addressing cetaceans' protection and identifying effective conservation strategies. In this study, an Ecosystem-Based Marine Spatial Planning (EB-MSP) approach is applied to assess human pressures on cetaceans and guide the designation of a conservation area in the Gulf of Taranto, Northern Ionian Sea (Central-eastern Mediterranean Sea). The Gulf of Taranto hosts different cetacean species that accomplish important phases of their life in the area. Despite this fact, the gulf does not fall within any area-based management tools (ABMTs) for cetacean conservation. We pin down the Gulf of Taranto being eligible for the designation of diverse ABMTs for conservation, both legally and non-legally binding. Through a risk-based approach, this study explores the cause-effect relationships that link any human activities and pressures exerted in the study area to potential effects on cetaceans, by identifying major drivers of potential impacts. These were found to be underwater noise, marine litter, ship collision, and competition and disturbance on preys. We draw some recommendations based on different sources of available knowledge produced so far in the area (i.e., empirical evidence, scientific and grey literature, and expert judgement) to boost cetaceans' conservation. Finally, we stress the need of sectoral coordination for the management of human activities by applying an EB-MSP approach and valuing the establishment of an ABMT in the Gulf of Taranto.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Carlucci
- Department of Biology, University of Bari, Via Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy; CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Manea
- Institute of Marine Sciences, National Research Council, ISMAR-CNR, Arsenale, Tesa 104, Castello 2737/F, 30122, Venice, Italy.
| | - Pasquale Ricci
- Department of Biology, University of Bari, Via Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy; CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Cipriano
- Department of Biology, University of Bari, Via Orabona 4, 70125, Bari, Italy; CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00196, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmelo Fanizza
- Jonian Dolphin Conservation, Viale Virgilio 102, 74121, Taranto, Italy
| | - Rosalia Maglietta
- Institute of Intelligent Industrial Systems and Technologies for Advanced Manufacturing, National Research Council, Via Amendola 122 D/O, 70126, Bari, Italy
| | - Elena Gissi
- Institute of Marine Sciences, National Research Council, ISMAR-CNR, Arsenale, Tesa 104, Castello 2737/F, 30122, Venice, Italy; University Iuav of Venice, Tolentini, Santa Croce 191, 30135, Venice, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ricci P, Sion L, Capezzuto F, Cipriano G, D'Onghia G, Libralato S, Maiorano P, Tursi A, Carlucci R. Dataset and species aggregation method applied to food-web models in the Northern Ionian Sea (Central Mediterranean Sea). Data Brief 2021; 36:106964. [PMID: 33869693 PMCID: PMC8040120 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2021.106964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The ecological roles of the species in the food web are studied through the Ecopath with Ecosim modelling approach. In this modelling approach, the food web is described by means of functional groups, each representing a species, a life stage of a species, or a group of species with similar trophic, ecological and physiological features. Links between the groups are formally described by a set of linear equations, informed with ecological and fishing data. Here, the data input collected to implement 3 Ecopath models in the Northern Ionian Sea (Central Mediterranean Sea) from 1995 to 2015 are reported. This dataset applied to study the ecological roles of the demersal Chondrichthyes in the study area could be useful to explore different fishing management scenarios. A large dataset of over 300 taxa is shown detailing the ecological inputs, such as Biomass (kg km-2), Production and Consumption rates (y-1), Diet information (weight in %), and fishing data represented by Landings and Discards (t km-2 y-1). In particular, the fishery data described the catches of trawls, longlines, passive nets, other gears and purse seine. In addition, a description of the aggregation method of the species is shown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P. Ricci
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
- CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio, 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - L. Sion
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
- CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio, 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - F. Capezzuto
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
- CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio, 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - G. Cipriano
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
- CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio, 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - G. D'Onghia
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
- CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio, 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - S. Libralato
- National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics – OGS, Borgo Grotta Gigante 42/c, 34010 Sgonico, Trieste, Italy
| | - P. Maiorano
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
- CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio, 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - A. Tursi
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
- CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio, 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| | - R. Carlucci
- Department of Biology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Orabona, 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
- CoNISMa, Piazzale Flaminio, 9, 00196 Roma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Giralt Paradell O, Methion S, Rogan E, Díaz López B. Modelling ecosystem dynamics to assess the effect of coastal fisheries on cetacean species. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 285:112175. [PMID: 33607562 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The expansion of fisheries and its increased efficiency are causing severe detrimental impacts on marine species and ecosystems, that can be categorised into operational and ecological effects. While impacts directly caused by fishing activities have been extensively documented, it is difficult to set an empirical link between fisheries and changes in predator biomass and abundance. Therefore, exploring the functioning of ecosystems as a whole, the interactions between the different species within them and the impact of human activities, is key to understanding the ecological effects of fisheries on top predators and ecosystems, and to develop effective conservation measures, while ensuring a more sustainable exploitation of fishing resources. For instance, mass balance models, such as Ecopath with Ecosim, have proven to be a useful tool to develop more holistic fisheries management and conservation strategies. In this study, Ecopath with Ecosim was used to investigate the temporal dynamics of the Rías Baixas shelf ecosystem (North-West Spain) between 2005 and 2017. Additionally, nine 30-year forward projecting simulations covering the period 2018-2047 were developed to examine the effects of differing fisheries management strategies on common dolphins (Delphinus delphis), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). Results from these models suggest that when intense fishing increases it poses a major threat to the conservation of these top predators in the area, by reducing the variety of their available prey and potentially enhancing competition amongst them. The study highlights the applicability of Ecopath with Ecosim to develop cetacean conservation measures and despite its small spatial scale, it provides a general framework that can be used to assess cetacean conservation in larger and impacted areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Giralt Paradell
- The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute - BDRI. Av Beiramar 192, 36980, O Grove, Pontevedra, Spain; School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork. Address: Distillery Fields, North Mall, Cork, T23 N73K, Ireland.
| | - Séverine Methion
- The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute - BDRI. Av Beiramar 192, 36980, O Grove, Pontevedra, Spain.
| | - Emer Rogan
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork. Address: Distillery Fields, North Mall, Cork, T23 N73K, Ireland.
| | - Bruno Díaz López
- The Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute - BDRI. Av Beiramar 192, 36980, O Grove, Pontevedra, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ricci P, Libralato S, Capezzuto F, D’Onghia G, Maiorano P, Sion L, Tursi A, Solidoro C, Carlucci R. Ecosystem functioning of two marine food webs in the North-Western Ionian Sea (Central Mediterranean Sea). Ecol Evol 2019; 9:10198-10212. [PMID: 31624545 PMCID: PMC6787816 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.5527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The ecosystem functioning of two marine food webs covering the north-eastern (Salento) and south-western (Calabria) sectors of the North-Western Ionian Sea (NWIS) (Central Mediterranean Sea) was investigated through a food-web model. Data inputs covered a wide set of ecological information applied to 58 functional groups (FGs). The sum of consumption and the mean predation mortality rate were calculated for benthic, demersal, and pelagic subsystems indicating the predator and prey roles of the FGs. A complex system of energy and biomass exchanges characterized the investigated food webs indicating an important benthic-pelagic coupling. In the food webs of both areas, the regulation of flows between the benthic-pelagic coupling seems to occur through the benthopelagic shrimps and the small pelagics due to their wasp-waist control role. Differences were observed concerning the top predators. Odontocetes play this keystone role in the Salento food web. Anglers, bathyal squids, and sharks assume this functional role in Calabria. The geomorphology and hydrography in the NWIS could affect the biomass and energy exchanges in this coupling. The higher flows of consumption of the benthic system observed in the Calabria food web could be influenced by a widespread presence of canyons along the continental edge which increase the benthic productivity. In contrast, the flows of consumption in the Salento food web seem to be driven by the planktonic productivity supporting the pelagic, benthopelagic, and demersal compartments. This condition could be favored by the large extension of the shelf break zone. The food-web models realized for the NWIS represent ideal platforms for the development of analysis with dynamic simulations. The comparative analysis of the two food webs by means of the FGs and their functional traits allowed the general pattern of ecosystem structure and functioning in the NWIS to be identified, making it an interesting approach to investigate the marine ecosystem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pasquale Ricci
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Bari Aldo MoroBariItaly
- CoNISMaRomaItaly
| | - Simone Libralato
- Oceanography DivisionOGS (Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale)TriesteItaly
| | | | | | - Porzia Maiorano
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Bari Aldo MoroBariItaly
- CoNISMaRomaItaly
| | - Letizia Sion
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Bari Aldo MoroBariItaly
- CoNISMaRomaItaly
| | - Angelo Tursi
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Bari Aldo MoroBariItaly
- CoNISMaRomaItaly
| | - Cosimo Solidoro
- Oceanography DivisionOGS (Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale)TriesteItaly
| | - Roberto Carlucci
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Bari Aldo MoroBariItaly
- CoNISMaRomaItaly
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Paoli C, Povero P, Burgos E, Dapueto G, Fanciulli G, Massa F, Scarpellini P, Vassallo P. Natural capital and environmental flows assessment in marine protected areas: The case study of Liguria region (NW Mediterranean Sea). Ecol Modell 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2017.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
8
|
Piroddi C, Coll M, Liquete C, Macias D, Greer K, Buszowski J, Steenbeek J, Danovaro R, Christensen V. Historical changes of the Mediterranean Sea ecosystem: modelling the role and impact of primary productivity and fisheries changes over time. Sci Rep 2017; 7:44491. [PMID: 28290518 PMCID: PMC5349533 DOI: 10.1038/srep44491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea has been defined “under siege” because of intense pressures from multiple human activities; yet there is still insufficient information on the cumulative impact of these stressors on the ecosystem and its resources. We evaluate how the historical (1950–2011) trends of various ecosystems groups/species have been impacted by changes in primary productivity (PP) combined with fishing pressure. We investigate the whole Mediterranean Sea using a food web modelling approach. Results indicate that both changes in PP and fishing pressure played an important role in driving species dynamics. Yet, PP was the strongest driver upon the Mediterranean Sea ecosystem. This highlights the importance of bottom-up processes in controlling the biological characteristics of the region. We observe a reduction in abundance of important fish species (~34%, including commercial and non-commercial) and top predators (~41%), and increases of the organisms at the bottom of the food web (~23%). Ecological indicators, such as community biomass, trophic levels, catch and diversity indicators, reflect such changes and show overall ecosystem degradation over time. Since climate change and fishing pressure are expected to intensify in the Mediterranean Sea, this study constitutes a baseline reference for stepping forward in assessing the future management of the basin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Piroddi
- Institute of Marine Science (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Maritim de la Barceloneta, n° 39-45 08003 Barcelona, Spain.,European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Directorate D - Sustainable Resources, via Enrico Fermi 2749, I-21027 Ispra, Italy
| | - Marta Coll
- Institute of Marine Science (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Maritim de la Barceloneta, n° 39-45 08003 Barcelona, Spain.,Ecopath International Initiative Research Association, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Recherche pour le Développement - UMR MARBEC (MARine Biodiverity Exploitation &Conservation) Avenue Jean Monnet, BP 171 34203 Sète Cedex, France
| | - Camino Liquete
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Directorate D - Sustainable Resources, via Enrico Fermi 2749, I-21027 Ispra, Italy
| | - Diego Macias
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Directorate D - Sustainable Resources, via Enrico Fermi 2749, I-21027 Ispra, Italy
| | - Krista Greer
- Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Main Mall 2202, V6T1Z4 Vancouver, Canada
| | - Joe Buszowski
- Ecopath International Initiative Research Association, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jeroen Steenbeek
- Institute of Marine Science (ICM-CSIC), Passeig Maritim de la Barceloneta, n° 39-45 08003 Barcelona, Spain.,Ecopath International Initiative Research Association, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roberto Danovaro
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.,Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121 Naples, Italy
| | - Villy Christensen
- Ecopath International Initiative Research Association, Barcelona, Spain.,Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Main Mall 2202, V6T1Z4 Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bearzi G, Bonizzoni S, Santostasi NL, Furey NB, Eddy L, Valavanis VD, Gimenez O. Dolphins in a Scaled-Down Mediterranean: The Gulf of Corinth's Odontocetes. ADVANCES IN MARINE BIOLOGY 2016; 75:297-331. [PMID: 27770988 DOI: 10.1016/bs.amb.2016.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The Gulf of Corinth is a 2400-km2 semi-enclosed inland system (a mediterraneus) in central Greece. Its continental shelf areas, steep bottom relief, and waters up to 500-900m deep offer suitable habitat to neritic and pelagic species. We used photographic capture-recapture, distribution modelling, and direct observations to investigate the abundance, status, habitat preferences, movements, and group size of four odontocete species regularly observed in the Gulf, based on five years (2011-2015) of survey effort from small boats. Striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) are more abundant (1324 individuals, 95%CI 1158-1515) than was determined from previous estimates. Striped dolphins appear to be confined to the Gulf, where they favour deep and oligotrophic waters, and were encountered in single-species and mixed-species groups. Short-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) (22 individuals, 95%CI 16-31), individuals with intermediate pigmentation (possibly striped/common dolphin hybrids) (55, 95%CI 36-83), and a single Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus) were only encountered in mixed-species groups with striped dolphins. Short-beaked common dolphins constitute a discrete conservation unit (subpopulation), and based on the current estimate, would qualify as Critically Endangered according to International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List criteria. Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) (39 animals, 95%CI 33-47) occur in single-species groups; they prefer continental shelf waters and areas near fish farms in the northern sector, and several animals appear to move into and out of the Gulf. Additionally, we contribute records of marine fauna and an assessment of the fishing fleet operating in the Gulf. Our study shows that the importance of this vulnerable marine environment has been underestimated, and management action must be taken to mitigate human impact and ensure long-term protection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Bearzi
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; OceanCare, Wädenswil, Switzerland; Texas A&M University at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States.
| | - S Bonizzoni
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; OceanCare, Wädenswil, Switzerland; Texas A&M University at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - N L Santostasi
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, Montpellier, France
| | - N B Furey
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - L Eddy
- Dolphin Biology and Conservation, Oria, Italy; OceanCare, Wädenswil, Switzerland
| | - V D Valavanis
- Marine Geographic Information Systems Lab, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Heraklion, Greece
| | - O Gimenez
- Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Coll M, Carreras M, Ciércoles C, Cornax MJ, Gorelli G, Morote E, Sáez R. Assessing fishing and marine biodiversity changes using fishers' perceptions: the Spanish Mediterranean and Gulf of Cadiz case study. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85670. [PMID: 24465644 PMCID: PMC3899065 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The expansion of fishing activities has intensively transformed marine ecosystems worldwide. However, available time series do not frequently cover historical periods. Methodology Fishers' perceptions were used to complement data and characterise changes in fishing activity and exploited ecosystems in the Spanish Mediterranean Sea and Gulf of Cadiz. Fishers' interviews were conducted in 27 fishing harbours of the area, and included 64 fishers from ages between 20 to >70 years old to capture the experiences and memories of various generations. Results are discussed in comparison with available independent information using stock assessments and international convention lists. Principal Findings According to fishers, fishing activity substantially evolved in the area with time, expanding towards deeper grounds and towards areas more distant from the coast. The maximum amount of catch ever caught and the weight of the largest species ever captured inversely declined with time. Fishers (70%) cited specific fishing grounds where depletion occurred. They documented ecological changes of marine biodiversity during the last half of the century: 94% reported the decline of commercially important fish and invertebrates and 61% listed species that could have been extirpated, with frequent mentions to cartilaginous fish. Declines and extirpations were in line with available quantitative evaluations from stock assessments and international conventions, and were likely linked to fishing impacts. Conversely, half of interviewed fishers claimed that several species had proliferated, such as cephalopods, jellyfish, and small-sized fish. These changes were likely related to trophic cascades due to fishing and due to climate change effects. The species composition of depletions, local extinctions and proliferations showed differences by region suggesting that regional dynamics are important when analysing biodiversity changes. Conclusions/Significance Using fishers' perceptions, fishing and ecological changes in the study area were documented. The recovery of local ecological knowledge provides valuable information complementing quantitative monitoring and evaluation surveys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Coll
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC). Barcelona, Spain
- UMR EME 212 Centre de Recherche Halieutique Méditerranéenne et Tropicale. IRD - IFREMER & Université Montpellier II. Sète Cedex, France
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | | | - Giulia Gorelli
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC). Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Raquel Sáez
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC). Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Coll M, Carreras M, Ciércoles C, Cornax MJ, Gorelli G, Morote E, Sáez R. Assessing fishing and marine biodiversity changes using fishers' perceptions: the Spanish Mediterranean and Gulf of Cadiz case study. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85670. [PMID: 24465644 PMCID: PMC3899065 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085670 10.1371/journal.pone.0085670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/30/2013] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The expansion of fishing activities has intensively transformed marine ecosystems worldwide. However, available time series do not frequently cover historical periods. METHODOLOGY Fishers' perceptions were used to complement data and characterise changes in fishing activity and exploited ecosystems in the Spanish Mediterranean Sea and Gulf of Cadiz. Fishers' interviews were conducted in 27 fishing harbours of the area, and included 64 fishers from ages between 20 to >70 years old to capture the experiences and memories of various generations. Results are discussed in comparison with available independent information using stock assessments and international convention lists. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS According to fishers, fishing activity substantially evolved in the area with time, expanding towards deeper grounds and towards areas more distant from the coast. The maximum amount of catch ever caught and the weight of the largest species ever captured inversely declined with time. Fishers (70%) cited specific fishing grounds where depletion occurred. They documented ecological changes of marine biodiversity during the last half of the century: 94% reported the decline of commercially important fish and invertebrates and 61% listed species that could have been extirpated, with frequent mentions to cartilaginous fish. Declines and extirpations were in line with available quantitative evaluations from stock assessments and international conventions, and were likely linked to fishing impacts. Conversely, half of interviewed fishers claimed that several species had proliferated, such as cephalopods, jellyfish, and small-sized fish. These changes were likely related to trophic cascades due to fishing and due to climate change effects. The species composition of depletions, local extinctions and proliferations showed differences by region suggesting that regional dynamics are important when analysing biodiversity changes. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Using fishers' perceptions, fishing and ecological changes in the study area were documented. The recovery of local ecological knowledge provides valuable information complementing quantitative monitoring and evaluation surveys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marta Coll
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC). Barcelona, Spain
- UMR EME 212 Centre de Recherche Halieutique Méditerranéenne et Tropicale. IRD - IFREMER & Université Montpellier II. Sète Cedex, France
| | | | | | | | - Giulia Gorelli
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC). Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Raquel Sáez
- Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC). Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Torres MÁ, Coll M, Heymans JJ, Christensen V, Sobrino I. Food-web structure of and fishing impacts on the Gulf of Cadiz ecosystem (South-western Spain). Ecol Modell 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2013.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
13
|
Effects of hunting, fishing and climate change on the Hudson Bay marine ecosystem: I. Re-creating past changes 1970–2009. Ecol Modell 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2013.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
14
|
Goldsworthy SD, Page B, Rogers PJ, Bulman C, Wiebkin A, McLeay LJ, Einoder L, Baylis AM, Braley M, Caines R, Daly K, Huveneers C, Peters K, Lowther AD, Ward TM. Trophodynamics of the eastern Great Australian Bight ecosystem: Ecological change associated with the growth of Australia's largest fishery. Ecol Modell 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2013.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
15
|
Moura AE, Natoli A, Rogan E, Hoelzel AR. Evolution of Functional Genes in Cetaceans Driven by Natural Selection on a Phylogenetic and Population Level. Evol Biol 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s11692-012-9215-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
16
|
Karydis M, Kitsiou D. Eutrophication and environmental policy in the Mediterranean Sea: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2012; 184:4931-4984. [PMID: 21956336 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-011-2313-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2010] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea is a semienclosed basin connected with the open sea mainly through the Strait of Gibraltar. Due to the circulation pattern and the long residence time ranging between 80 and 100 years, the Mediterranean Sea is a sensitive environment to eutrophication pressures. The main body of water of the Mediterranean is characterized by very low nutrient concentrations, and therefore, the Mediterranean is classified among the most oligotrophic (very poor waters in nutrients) seas of the world's oceans. However, some coastal areas, mainly in the northern part of the basin, receive excessive loads of nutrients from sewage effluents, river fluxes, aquaculture farms, fertilizers, and industrial facilities, showing intense eutrophic phenomena with many adverse effects for the marine ecosystem and humans. Various national and international authorities, in addition to monitoring, have taken legal and administrative measures to mitigate eutrophication trends in the area. The Mediterranean environment is a good paradigm of integration of extensive legal framework, scientific knowledge, and administrative practices. The Barcelona Convention, the Mediterranean Action Plan, and European Union Directives on water quality and coastal management, together with scientific information derived from international research programs in the Mediterranean, provide a sound background for practical actions in eutrophication problems. In the present work, the problem of coastal eutrophication in the Mediterranean is reviewed in connection with public policies of the Mediterranean States based on national and international legislation and scientific knowledge on Mediterranean oceanography-ecology and actions coordinated by international bodies. These common actions and practices on coastal management are also discussed in relation to the need for sustainable development and protection of the coastal zone in the Mediterranean Sea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Karydis
- Department of Marine Sciences, University of the Aegean, University Hill, Mytilene, Lesvos Island 81100, Greece.
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cisneros-Montemayor AM, Christensen V, Arreguín-Sánchez F, Sumaila UR. Ecosystem models for management advice: An analysis of recreational and commercial fisheries policies in Baja California Sur, Mexico. Ecol Modell 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2011.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|