Effectiveness of Large-Scale Marine Protected Areas in the Atlantic Ocean for Reducing Fishing Activities

The implementation of large-scale marine protected areas (MPAs) depends upon scarce conservation resources, while their effects on biodiversity are rarely assessed to date. Quantitative evaluations necessary assess the effectiveness MPAs in enhancing ecosystem resilience, protecting biodiversity, and mitigating expanding threats. In this study, MPAs, which remotely managed offshore southwestern Atlantic Ocean (Brazil), was concerning occurrence fishing activities within boundaries before after implementation. Two sets surrounding São Pedro Paulo archipelago (SPSP) Trindade-Martin Vaz Islands (TMV) were established early 2018, each comprising one no-take (i.e., fully-protected) multiple-use partially-protected) area. For assessment, I used satellite detections Vessel Monitoring System transmission quantify pressure “likely days”) from commercial fisheries spanning 5 years (2015–2019). then derived three metrics – area, intensity, density compare activity MPA year. results showed that variable contrasting, with SPSP experiencing a reduction intensity area TMV an increase both measures. An inverted pattern evident for MPAs: region experienced its establishment following squeeze factor, observed decrease when comparing These outputs can support managers planning further strategies, such as monitoring enforcement plans, analyses here also contribute our understanding implications challenges adopting environment high-profile strategy ocean conservation.