Abstract

Understanding the complex dynamics and tracking changes of conch (Strombus gigas) and lobster (Panulirus argus) populations is crucial for sustainable fisheries and MPA management. In order for MPA managers to adapt management strategies to match resource availability managers must develop comprehensive systems to monitor key fisheries resources. In Belize, Friends of Nature (FoN)- a local NGO responsible for co-management of two marine protected areas has adopted the Long Term Atoll Monitoring Protocol (LAMP) to monitor these two commercially important invertebrates. FoN co-manages two marine protected areas one is completely no-take (Laughing Bird Caye National Park) and one is zoned for multiple use (Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve) After almost five years of data collection FoN has been able to develop a greater understanding as to the status and the effects that different levels of management can have on populations. FoN has noted more stability in the populations of both conch and lobster at the completely closed site compared to the multi-use reserve. Although this data provides managers with a greater understanding of the status of the populations, there have been a number of important lessons learned about data collection and its application to management. At FoN, continued consistent monitoring is key for adaptive management, however the implementation of this monitoring has often yielded less than optimal results. By continuing to improve data collection efforts and understanding the strengths and weaknesses inherent in MPA monitoring FoN is working to ensure proper management of key commercial fishery stocks.

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