SELECTING MARINE RESERVE LOCATIONS: OPTIMALITY VERSUS OPPORTUNISM

摘要

Location of most marine reserves has depended more on social criteria and opportun- ism than on scientific study. Nevertheless, numerous studies from many habitats and places around the world indicate that fully protected reserves (areas closed to all fishing) have shown clear benefits, at least within their boundaries. This evidence suggests that reserves will work in most areas they are placed. Many people are uncomfortable with this haphazard approach and worry that we should be looking to science to help optimize placement.