Connectivity of Coral Reefs and other Nearshore Habitats: Implications for Marine Resource Management in the Philippines

Abstract

Marine protected areas (MPAs) have become a mainstay of marine resource management in the Philippines in the past three decades and there is growing advocacy to implement MPA networks — systems of MPAs that effectively protect sufficient proportions of the populations of targeted species. MPA networks aim to reduce fishery-induced mortality of targeted species during critical life stages. Thus, a primary consideration of protecting populations using MPA networks is connectivity — the linking of local populations through the movement of adults or juveniles and the dispersal of larvae. This paper discusses the implications of emerging new knowledge on connectivity for MPA-centric marine resource management in the Philippines, with focus on demersal fishes inhabiting coral reefs, seagrass beds, algal beds, mangroves, and other vital nearshore habitats. The major successes and shortcomings of implementing MPAs are summarized and the evidence for MPA networks improving fisheries via connectivity is assessed. Highlighted are five major challenges for managing marine resources using MPA networks.