The effect of marine protected areas on an exploited population of sex-changing temperate reef fish: an individual-based model
Kerwath, S.E.; Götz, A.; Attwood, C.G.; Sauer, W.H.H. (2008). The effect of marine protected areas on an exploited population of sex-changing temperate reef fish: an individual-based model. Afr. J. Mar. Sci. 30(2): 337-350
In: African Journal of Marine Science. NISC/Taylor & Francis: Grahamstown. ISSN 0257-7615; e-ISSN 1814-2338, more
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| Keywords |
Fisheries management
Models
Protection
South Africa
South Africa [Marine Regions]
Marine/Coastal |
| Authors | | Top |
- Kerwath, S.E.
- Götz, A.
- Attwood, C.G.
- Sauer, W.H.H.
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| Abstract |
The effect of two marine protected areas (MPAs) on roman Chrysoblephus laticeps (Sparidae), an exploited reef-fish species inhabiting the South African temperate south coast, was simulated with a spatially explicit, individual-based model based on geographically correct habitat distribution. The model domains were small compared with the dispersal range of pre-recruits, and recruitment was held constant. Adult fish movement rules were based on the results of high-resolution markand-recapture and telemetry studies. Fish densities, age-structure and life-history parameters were derived from comprehensive underwater surveys and biological analyses. The model included the effect of fishing on size-at-sex change. The results indicate a recovery of fish abundance-per-recruit, size frequency and sex ratio to, or close to, pre-exploitation levels within the protected areas 10 years after the implementation of both MPAs. Results suggest that, for resident species such as roman, even small MPAs (6 km2) can offer protection. The small exchange of post-recruit fish into the adjacent areas results in negligible improvement (1%) of catches. The MPAs support more and larger spawning fish, which may improve recruitment into adjacent fished areas. |
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