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Description:
Author(s):
Henry, L. A., Navas, J. M., Hennige, S. J., Wicks, L. C., Vad, J., Roberts, J. M.
Title:
Cold-water coral reef habitats benefit recreationally valuable sharks
Publication Date:
2013
Publisher:
Elsevier Ltd.
Journal Title:
Biological Conservation
Volume:
161
Page(s):
67-70
Abstract:
"We provide a case study to demonstrate how a key ecosystem function of coral reefs (habitat provision) co-benefits both sharks and humans. Spawning grounds of the blackmouth catshark Galeus melastomus were discovered using seabed and video surveys on the Mingulay Reef Complex, a seascape of cold-water coral reefs off western Scotland. Spawning habitats were environmentally similar across years. Shark abundance of G. melastomus, a species valued by the recreational sea angling industry, was significantly higher nearer reef habitats. Our case study demonstrates how a local coral vulnerable marine ecosystem (VME) helps maintain key life stages of shark populations and provides socioeconomic benefits. Evidence for co-benefits between corals, sharks and humans provides a compelling case for identifying and protecting coral VMEs."
Keywords:
Cold-water corals, Coral reefs, Sharks, Ecosystem function, Spawning, Sea angling
Electronic DOI:
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