Influence of shark tourism on the activity and physiological condition of a non-focal pelagic fish

Abstract Wildlife tourism can have adverse effects on the behaviours and movements of animals, with implications for health fitness individuals populations. We used acoustic-tracking to show that food-based attractants in shark-tourism increases activity (15%) burst (60%) yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi, n = 18). Increased was restricted periods when were same side island group as berleying vessels, but decreased after operators left site. Despite raised frequency swimming events, physiological condition (n 39, 6 tagged, 33 untagged) measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis remained consistent from control sites not exposed tourism. This suggests able compensate energy expenditure by feeding bait berley or through natural foraging. highlight provisioning wildlife extend beyond changes additionally influence energetic non-focal animals increased activity. However, supplemental food-sources provided may be sufficient lessen individual health.