Linking temperate demersal fish species to habitat: scales, patterns and future directions

摘要: Adoption of the ecosystem approach to fisheries management relies on recognition link between fish and other components ecosystem, namely their physical biological habitat. However, identifying habitat requirements marine fishes hence determining distribution in space time is scientifically complex. We analysed methodologies findings research temperate, demersal highlight main developments this field identify potential shortfalls. Many studies were undertaken over large spatial scales (‡100s km 2 ) these generally correlated abundances abiotic variables. Biological variables accounted for less often. Small scale (£m ), experimental comparatively sparse commonly focused biotic Whilst number focusing increased with increasing scale, proportion finding significant relationships remained constant. This mismatch indicates there no justification tendency analyse at scales. Innovative modelling techniques mapping technologies are developing rapidly, providing new insights larger a clear need reduction study or increase resolution additional integration argue that development sound predictive science determination reliant change focus along lines. especially important if strategies, such as Marine Protected Areas (MPA) No Take Zones (NTZ), be used future ecosystem-based approaches management.