University of Oxford Research Highlights Ocean Connectivity as Key to Fish Abundance in the Western Indian Ocean
A study led by the University of Oxford, published in the ICES Journal of Marine Sciences, reveals that oceanographic connectivity significantly influences fish abundance across the Western Indian Ocean, especially herbivorous reef fish that are crucial for coral reef resilience. The research highlights the need to incorporate connectivity into conservation planning, given its strong impact alongside sea surface temperature and chlorophyll levels on predicting reef fish distribution. With local communities in the region highly dependent on reefs for food security and vulnerable to climate change, efficient management of marine protected areas is essential. The study also points out that while medium connectivity levels generally promote higher fish abundance, high connectivity can have negative effects such as pollutant dispersal. Researchers plan to further investigate human activity impacts and changes in environmental factors under various climate scenarios. The collaboration included partners from the UK, Kenya, and the Bertarelli Foundation Marine Science Programme.
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