Adaptive management of the Great Barrier Reef: A globally significant demonstration of the benefits of networks of marine reserves

Large-scale networks of marine reserves significantly enhance the resilience and biodiversity of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), demonstrating their critical role in adaptive management. A comprehensive review reveals that no-take zones benefit targeted fish species, sharks, coral abundance, and ecosystem health by reducing crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks. While mobile species like sharks show lesser benefits compared to site-attached fish, reserves also contribute to fisheries sustainability and tourism value protection. Spatial analyses confirm the effectiveness of best-practice conservation principles even in data-poor situations. Economic evaluations suggest net benefits from expanded marine reserve networks, with protection costs being minimal relative to reef tourism revenue. The implementation of an Outlook Report provides a framework for regular environmental assessment and policy adaptation, offering a cost-effective strategy to mitigate climate change impacts on the GBR.

McCook, L. J., Ayling, T., Cappo, M., Choat, J. H., Evans, R. D., De Freitas, D. M., Heupel, M., Hughes, T. P., Jones, G. P., Mapstone, B., Marsh, H., Mills, M., Molloy, F. J., Pitcher, C. R., Pressey, R. L., Russ, G. R., Sutton, S., Sweatman, H., Tobin, R., et al. (2010). Adaptive management of the Great Barrier Reef: A globally significant demonstration of the benefits of networks of marine reserves. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 107(43), 18278–18285. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.0909335107