Publications des scientifiques de l'IRD

Roux J. P., van der Lingen C. D., Gibbons M. J., Moroff N. E., Shannon L. J., Smith A. D. M., Cury Philippe. (2013). Jellyfication of marine ecosystems as a likely consequence of overfishing small pelagic fishes : lessons from the Benguela. Bulletin of Marine Science, 89 (1), p. 249-284. ISSN 0007-4977.

Titre du document
Jellyfication of marine ecosystems as a likely consequence of overfishing small pelagic fishes : lessons from the Benguela
Année de publication
2013
Type de document
Article référencé dans le Web of Science WOS:000325306300013
Auteurs
Roux J. P., van der Lingen C. D., Gibbons M. J., Moroff N. E., Shannon L. J., Smith A. D. M., Cury Philippe
Source
Bulletin of Marine Science, 2013, 89 (1), p. 249-284 ISSN 0007-4977
Changes in two contrasting ecosystems of the Benguela upwelling region, one dominated at mid-trophic level by jellyfishes (Namibia, northern Benguela ecosystem, where small pelagic fish abundance has been severely depleted) and one still dominated by small pelagic fishes (South Africa, southern Benguela) were compared in an effort to determine ecosystem trajectories under different exploitation regimes. The role of small pelagic fishes (clupeoids) was highlighted in the context of their importance in maintaining interactions in marine ecosystems. In particular, we examined trophic cascades and possible irreversible changes that promote the proliferation of jellyfishes in marine systems. We found that the presence of large populations of small pelagic fishes has a fundamental role in preserving beneficial trophic interactions in these marine ecosystems. The implications of trophic cascades, such as those observed in the northern Benguela, for ecosystem-based management were apparent. In addition, this comparison provides contrasting case studies to inform the development of management scenarios that avoid ecosystem shifts that affect predators and reduce the value of fisheries production.
Plan de classement
Ecologie, systèmes aquatiques [036]
Description Géographique
ATLANTIQUE SUD ; AFRIQUE DU SUD ; NAMIBIE
Localisation
Fonds IRD [F B010061215]
Identifiant IRD
fdi:010061215
Contact