Recent findings from research conducted in Palau show that in order to manage reef fisheries, both good water quality and an intact biological community are needed. Their results show that fish larvae respond to both reef sounds and the smells when seeking a place to settle from open water and mature into adults. This NCCOS-supported research was shared with stakeholders from the Palau Northern Reef Fisheries Management Project Scientists in May.
Thus, maintaining sustainable fish populations requires not only protecting the reef ecosystem but managing watershed activities to minimize their impact on coastal waters. The current project, part of a long-term NCCOS investment in Micronesia, is designed to interact with managers and stakeholders on a regular basis to more effectively transition research results into management and policy actions.
For more information, contact Felix.Martinez@noaa.gov.