SPECIAL SESSION #6
Innovative Approaches in Conservation Strategies For Sedentary Marine Fishes
ORGANIZED BY
Miriam Ravisato
Miriam Ravisato
Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari, Italy
Marco Spoto
Marco Spoto
Institute of Anthropic Impact and Sustainability in Marine Environment - National Council of Research & Department of Biological, Geological, and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
Francesca Gaia Bitetto
Francesca Gaia Bitetto
Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari, Italy
ABSTRACT
In recent decades, marine fish populations have experienced notable declines, attributed to escalating pressures from intensive fisheries and anthropogenic habitat degradation. The combined effects of climate change, destructive fishing practices, coastal development and pollution and introduction of invasive species have further intensified this trend. This global phenomenon not only jeopardizes targeted species but also disrupts the stability of entire ecosystems by impacting non-targeted species, which are fundamnetal to ecosystems resilience and stability. Sedentary fish taxa, which have evolved optimized life strategies to feed, grow, and reproduce without the need for large movements, occupy a pivotal position in conservation approach/discourse owing to their vulnerability to habitat modifications and unique ecological functions. However, the effectiveness of conservation strategies is impeded by the paucity of ecological and biological data, particularly pertaining to the life histories, ecological dynamics and cryptic behavior. Addressing these knowledge gaps is imperative for planning efficacious conservation measures and preserving marine biodiversity. Notably, these species serve as potential indicators of local or regional habitat alterations, particularly within coastal and transitional environments. This session aims to solicit contributions that delve into conservation initiatives and present innovative approaches, techniques, and methodologies applied to the study of sedentary marine fishes.
