The likelihood of extinction of iconic and dominant herbivores and detritivores of coral reefs: the parrotfishes and surgeonfishes

摘要: Parrotfishes and surgeonfishes perform important functional roles in the dynamics of coral reef systems. This is a consequence their varied feeding behaviors ranging from targeted consumption living plant material (primarily surgeonfishes) to on detrital aggregates that are either scraped surface or excavated deeper substratum parrotfishes). Increased fishing pressure widespread habitat destruction have led population declines for several species these two groups. Species-specific data global distribution, status, life history characteristics, major threats were compiled each 179 known parrotfishes determine likelihood extinction under Categories Criteria IUCN Red List Threatened Species. Due part extensive distributions most traits exhibited families, only three (1.7%) listed at an elevated risk extinction. The majority (86%) as Least Concern, 10% Data Deficient 1% Near Threatened. localized extinction, however, higher some areas, particularly Coral Triangle region. relatively low proportion globally threatened highly encouraging, conservation successes attributed concentrated efforts. However, with growing realization man's profound impact planet, actions such improved marine reserve networks, more stringent regulations, continued monitoring status community levels imperative prevention loss groups iconic fishes.