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Aquatic connectivity: challenges and solutions in a changing climate
Journal of Fish Biology, Volume: 105, Issue: 2, Pages: 392 - 411
Swansea University Author:
Rachel Mawer
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© 2024 His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, Crown Copyright, Institute of Marine Research and The Authors. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs License.
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DOI (Published version): 10.1111/jfb.15727
Abstract
The challenge of managing aquatic connectivity in a changing climate is exacerbated in the presence of additional anthropogenic stressors, social factors, and economic drivers. Here we discuss these issues in the context of structural and functional connectivity for aquatic biodiversity, specificall...
| Published in: | Journal of Fish Biology |
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| ISSN: | 0022-1112 1095-8649 |
| Published: |
Wiley
2024
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| Online Access: |
Check full text
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| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa71542 |
| Abstract: |
The challenge of managing aquatic connectivity in a changing climate is exacerbated in the presence of additional anthropogenic stressors, social factors, and economic drivers. Here we discuss these issues in the context of structural and functional connectivity for aquatic biodiversity, specifically fish, in both the freshwater and marine realms. We posit that adaptive management strategies that consider shifting baselines and the socio-ecological implications of climate change will be required to achieve management objectives. The role of renewable energy expansion, particularly hydropower, is critically examined for its impact on connectivity. We advocate for strategic spatial planning that incorporates nature-positive solutions, ensuring climate mitigation efforts are harmonized with biodiversity conservation. We underscore the urgency of integrating robust scientific modelling with stakeholder values to define clear, adaptive management objectives. Finally, we call for innovative monitoring and predictive decision-making tools to navigate the uncertainties inherent in a changing climate, with the goal of ensuring the resilience and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. |
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| Keywords: |
biodiversity conservation, climate change, ecosystem resilience, fish passage, migration, spatial planning |
| College: |
Faculty of Science and Engineering |
| Funders: |
Government of Cantabria, Fénix Programme; H2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. Grant Number: 860800; Christ's College, University of Cambridge, Galapagos Islands Fund; Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Freshwater Habitat Initiative; Research Council of Norway via the Sharks on the Move project. Grant Number: RCN #326879; Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt. Grant Number: AZ20019/634 |
| Issue: |
2 |
| Start Page: |
392 |
| End Page: |
411 |

