African penguin Spheniscus demersus populations showed a drastic decline during the past decade, and their abundance is substantially linked with the presence of their prey. Therefore, conservation efforts should ensure adequate local food availability. In this perspective, marine protected areas (MPAs) have been identified as a valuable tool in an ecosystem approach to fisheries (EAF). When designed with flexible boundaries, MPAs can be beneficial for both penguins and fisheries. In South Africa, an EAF has been attempted through the use of experimental purse-seine fisheries closures from 2009 to present. We looked at the effectiveness of these closures in Algoa Bay and explored the suitability of a newly proposed zoned MPA. In general, this study indicated that the proposed MPA would provide a legal improvement to the current situation, but is not sufficient to increase numbers of African penguin populations. Larger no-take zones are necessary when prey availability is low. As an immediate measure, ongoing acoustic surveys could provide recommendations on prey availability to design flexible boundaries and increase the benefits for all stakeholders involved. In the future, more quantitative research is necessary to thoroughly reconcile conservation goals and the socio-economic needs of the coastal community of Algoa Bay. |
