Successful artificial reefs depend on getting the context right due to complex socio-bio-economic interactions

Abstract

Artificial reefs (ARs) are one of the most popular means of supporting marine ecosystem conservation and coastal fisheries, particularly in developing countries. However, ARs generate complex socio-bio-economic interactions that require careful evaluation. This is particularly the case for ARs outside no-take zones, where fish might be subject to enhanced exploitation due to easier catchability. Here, we conducted an interdisciplinary study on how ARs impact fish and fishing yields, combining mathematical and sociological approaches. Both approaches converge to confirm that fishery yields decline when ARs are exploited as if they were open access areas. This situation typically occurs in areas with weak governance and/or high levels of illegal fishing activity, both of which are common in many developing countries. To avoid these adverse effects and their associated ecological consequences, we recommend prioritizing the onset of a long-term surveillance system against illegal fishing activities, and adapting design and location of the ARs based on both and local and academic knowledge, before the deployment of ARs.

Savoirs experts vs savoirs territoriaux

“…Les méthodes participatives, malgré leur impact positif sur l'implication de nouveaux acteurs, ne renversent pas forcément les rapports de pouvoir, notamment quand elles reposent sur l'habilitation sélective des acteurs inclus dans le processus et une allocation partielle de la connaissance (Topçu, 2013) 13. Les récifs ont en revanche une efficacité très limitée en matière d'accroissement de la production de pêche, s'ils ne sont pas à l'abri des captures (Brochier et al, 2021). Leur rôle d'exportation trophique est donc sans doute plus significatif s'ils sont implantés dans une zone totalement protégée.…”

Artificial reef footprint in the United States ocean

“…(for example, ecological traps) and can have unintended socioeconomic consequences, especially in developing countries if reefs are not protected 25,26 . Despite growing evidence of ecological benefits and risks linked to built reefs, a fundamental ecological characteristic of these structures-the amount of seafloor they cover-remains poorly quantified.…”

“…Recently, however, some artificial reefs in the southeastern United States have been designated as special management zones, where high-efficiency gear is now restricted to help prevent inequitable fishing and overexploitation. Careful consideration of artificial reef seascape effects and their interplay with management strategies will be a key area for future socio-ecosystem research 26,33 , especially given the increasing emphasis on restoration amidst the increasing artificial reef footprint.…”

Estimation of Artificial Reef Pose Based on Deep Learning

“…In 2022, Lymperaki et al emphasized the importance of conducting long-term research and monitoring on artificial coral reefs [10]. Furthermore, in 2021, Brochier et al found that successful artificial coral reefs require consideration of factors such as local economic conditions, governance capacity, and illegal fishing, suggesting the establishment of long-term monitoring systems and adjustments in design and location for sustainable management [11]. Paxton et al in 2022 further underscored the significance of artificial coral reefs in marine ecosystem restoration and biodiversity enhancement, proposing their inclusion in marine planning to drive sustainable marine ecological management [12].…”