Comparison of the Abundance of Selected Invasive Alien Species and Economically Important Native Species between Fishing and No-Fishing Zones within Marine Protected Areas: A Case Study from Türkiye, Eastern Mediterranean

Authors : Vahit Alan, Fikret Öndes
Pages : 816-824
Doi:10.35229/jaes.1773613
View : 152 | Download : 221
Publication Date : 2025-11-30
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Marine protected areas are management tools that necessitate the systematic and continuous monitoring of the abundances of sensitive species, economically valuable native species, and alien invasive species. This study aimed to investigate whether there are differences in the abundances of selected invasive alien species and indicator species of economic or ecological importance between fishing zones and no-fishing zones within marine protected areas. The research was conducted in two Special Environmental Protection Areas (Gökova and Datça-Bozburun, Türkiye), where data were collected across four seasons using the underwater visual census method. It has been determined that the abundances of most invasive alien species (e.g. Diadema setosum, Siganus rivulatus, Pterois miles, and Parupeneus forsskali) are higher in fishing zones compared to no-fishing zones. In contrast, the abundances of Epinephelus costae, a native and economically valuable species with relatively high population levels in the area, and Serranus scriba, an ecologically important species, are greater in no-fishing zones. The study also revealed that seasonal variations in the abundances of most species examined were statistically significant. Moreover, larger individuals of Epinephelus costae were predominantly observed in no-fishing zones. Although the study was conducted in a relatively limited area, it suggests that in marine protected areas, the decline of native predators may create opportunities for invasive alien species to become more opportunistic.
Keywords : balıkçılık yönetimi, istilacı türler, doğu Akdeniz, Epinephelus costae, Pterois miles, Siganus rivulatus

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