Intact shallow and mesophotic assemblages of large carnivorous reef fishes underscore the importance of large and remote protected areas in the Coral Triangle

A study comparing marine protected areas (MPAs) in the Philippines reveals that mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) serve as deep refugia for large carnivorous reef fishes, with abundances 2 to 10 times higher than shallow depths. The research analyzed baited remote underwater video data from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP), a fully no-take MPA since 1988, and Cagayancillo, a partially protected archipelago. While TRNP showed intact fish assemblages due to strict protection, Cagayancillo exhibited higher mesophotic abundances of groupers, jacks, and overall carnivorous fishes, suggesting MCEs mitigate fishing impacts. The findings underscore the need for MPAs to explicitly include mesophotic zones to safeguard vulnerable species like the endangered Cheilinus undulatus (humphead wrasse). This study highlights the critical role of large, remote protected areas in preserving biodiversity in the Coral Triangle.

Salvador, M. L., Utzurrum, J. A. T., Murray, R., Delijero, K., Conales, S. F., Bird, C. E., Gauthier, D. T., & Abesamis, R. A. (2024). Intact shallow and mesophotic assemblages of large carnivorous reef fishes underscore the importance of large and remote protected areas in the Coral Triangle. Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems, 34(2). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/aqc.4108