Co-evolution of “race-to-fish” dynamics and declining size structures in an expanding commercial coral-reef fishery

摘要: Spatial expansions can provide a false sense of sustainability to fish markets and their consumers who perceive stable landings through time despite localized depletions. This study examined attributes monthly changes in size structures within commercial coral-reef fishery that had for 11 years. Regression models revealed significant rise the ratio between calm windy months, depicting were driven by increased fishing effort or success during calmer months when less exploited reefs became accessible. Within “race-to-fish” dynamics also evolved some target species, such as parrotfishes, whose increasingly concentrated towards onset calm favorable conditions. During this same time, structure 15 out 19 species comprised 60% annual decreased. The cumulative results suggested (1) spatial management units be improved taking environmental gradients define access into consideration, (2) thresholds size-and-age-based policies should established with respect life-history parameters maximize cohort production and protect against declining structures. Both recommendations resonate traditional forms across Pacific based on reef tenure knowledge how respond pressure.