Is the establishment of MPAs enough to preserve endangered intertidal species? The case of Patella ferruginea in Mal di Ventre Island (W Sardinia, Italy)

摘要: The giant limpet Patella ferruginea is the most endangered endemic species in Mediterranean Sea. It at serious risk of extinction, especially along coast Corsica and Italy. small population P. marine protected area (MPA) Penisola del Sinis - Isola di Mal Ventre (W Sardinia, Italy) an isolated unit whose preservation critical also from perspective conservation genetics. This study considered impact illegal harvesting on status MPA. Site accessibility (semi-accessible hardly accessible) legal protection (Zone A, B, C) were two field surveys conducted Island 2011 2013. Furthermore, Zone A was monitored annually 2009 to 2013 assess dynamics extinction risk. In summer total size estimated 310 specimens (0.016±0.005 ind m-1) with a significant decrease compared (–52%), mainly due poaching. Significantly higher density found accessible sites (0.039±0.007 m-1 2013) generally (0.042±0.009 2013). distribution showed similar pattern, larger sized individuals those maximum lower degree accessibility. Juveniles (<25 mm) almost absent mean individual growth rate (2.6±0.5 mm yr-1) comparison other populations. viability analysis predicted that, current rates harvesting, may face local within next 10 years. Without joint effort towards intertidal habitats by enforcement bodies, regulators, researchers sea users, MPA will not achieve its objectives disappear Island. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.