Tracking Changes in Mediterranean Fish Diversity Using Fishermen's Knowledge
Author Information
Author(s): Ernesto Azzurro, Paula Moschella, Francesc Maynou
Primary Institution: Institut de Ciències del Mar (ICM-CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
Hypothesis
Can local ecological knowledge provide reliable information about changes in Mediterranean fish diversity?
Conclusion
The study suggests that thermophilic fish species are increasing in the Mediterranean, indicating a response to climate change.
Supporting Evidence
- 59 fish species belonging to 35 families showed changes in abundance.
- Thermophilic species are increasing in the Mediterranean.
- Significant differences were found in fish abundance trends across different locations.
Takeaway
Fishermen noticed that some fish are becoming more common while others are disappearing, which might be due to warming waters.
Methodology
Interviews with fishermen were conducted to gather data on fish abundance changes over time.
Potential Biases
Fishermen's perceptions may be influenced by their fishing practices and experiences.
Limitations
The study relied on a small sample size of fishermen and may not capture all changes in fish populations.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 32 fishermen, both recreational and professional, with an average age of 55 years and over 10 years of fishing experience.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Confidence Interval
95%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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