Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are showing significant positive outcomes, particularly in increasing the number of large, “trophy-size” fish just outside their borders, a phenomenon known as the spillover effect. Research led by the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa’s Hawai’i Institute of Marine Biology (HIMB) and published in Science Advances highlights that MPAs globally are enhancing fish biomass and benefiting local fisheries. However, these benefits often take over two decades to become noticeable.
The study builds on previous research from Florida, where an increase in trophy fish catches was observed 12 to 30 years after MPA establishment. This long-term study confirms that while MPAs are effective in boosting large fish populations, patience and a long-term commitment are essential for these benefits to materialize. The research underscores the importance of community support, enforcement, and effective fisheries management for successful MPAs.
Hawai’i’s archipelago includes 13 state and federal MPAs, managed by the State of Hawai’i Division of Aquatic Resources. The findings are crucial for the global “30×30” marine conservation initiative, which aims to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. The study provides evidence-based guidance for the implementation and support of MPAs, indicating that while smaller fish may benefit local fisheries within a decade, it takes about 20 years for the spillover effect of large trophy fish to become evident.
MPAS IN HAWAI’I
FEDERALLY PROTECTED MARINE AREAS
– Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary
– Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument
STATE PROTECTED MARINE AREAS
– Hanauma Bay Marine Life Conservation District, O’ahu
– Pūpūkeaahu Marine Life Conservation District, O’ahu
– Waikīkī Marine Life Conservation District, O’ahu
– Kealakekua Bay Marine Life Conservation District, Hawai’i
– Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District, Hawai’i
– Old Kona Airport Marine Life Conservation District, Hawai’i
– Waialea Bay Marine Life Conservation District, Hawai’i
– Waiʻōpae Tidepools Marine Life Conservation District, Hawai’i
– Honolua-Mokulēʻia Marine Life Conservation District, Maui
– Mānele-Hulopoʻe Marine Life Conservation District, Maui
– Molokini Shoal Marine Life Conservation District, Maui
