Shaun W

Abstract Sustainably managing fisheries requires regular and reliable evaluation of stock status. However, most multispecies reef fisheries around the globe tend to lack research and monitoring capacity, preventing the estimation of sustainable reference points against which stocks can be assessed.

Abstract Marine reserves are a key tool for the conservation of marine biodiversity, yet only ~2.5% of the world's oceans are protected. The integration of marine reserves into connected networks representing all habitats has been encouraged by international agreements, yet the benefits of this design has not been tested empirically. Australia has one of the largest systems of marine reserves, providing a rare opportunity to assess how connectivity influences conservation success.

Abstract Continuing degradation of coral reef ecosystems has generated substantial interest in how management can support reef resilience1,2. Fishing is the primary source of diminished reef function globally3,4,5, leading to widespread calls for additional marine reserves to recover fish biomass and restore key ecosystem functions6.