| Virginia Shervette |
| Ph.D. student, Texas A&M University |
| Assessment of Fish Diversity in Ecuadorian Mangroves: Tools for Management and Conservation |
| Location: Churute Ecological Reserve, Guayaquil, Ecuador |
| Species: Fish (Cynoscion species) |
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| Abstract: This project will investigate the effects of shrimp farming and subsequent deforestation of mangrove habitat in Ecuador on the fish assemblage structure, while studying the function of mangroves in the juvenile life stages of a commercially important fish group (Cynoscion species). Mangrove forests have declined in this region due primarily to shrimp aquaculture. Loss of these forests impairs the integrity of these wetlands and negatively impacts a major source of livelihood and cultural tradition for Ecuadorians. The study will provide information necessary to promote sustainable fisheries use through the development of effective fisheries and land-use management plans. |
