Human-induced environmental disturbance – through fishery activities, coastal development, tourism and pollution – is a major challenge to the restoration and conservation of marine biodiversity. Synthesizing the latest research into marine biodiversity conservation and fisheries management, this book provides regional and global perspectives on the role of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in confronting this challenge. The approach is multidisciplinary, covering all the fields involved in designating and assessing MPAs: ecology, fisheries science, statistics, economics, sociology and genetics. The book is structured around key topics, including threats to marine ecosystems and resources, the effects and effectiveness of MPAs and the scaling-up of MPA systems. Both theoretical and empirical approaches are considered. Recognizing the diversity of MPA sciences, the book also includes one part designed specifically as a practical guide to implementing scientific assessment studies of MPAs and monitoring programs.

'For those working in any one area related to MPAs this will be a valuable source of information on the linkages among them, and an inspiring insight into the wider dimensions, right up to the global scale.'

Source: Frontiers of Biogeography

'This new collection edited by Joachim Claudet is now the best available book on the science around marine protected areas (MPAs). Its well-published authors come from 11 countries, so the book is a good reflection of the state of the art with little geographic bias. The book is in four parts: on threats, effects inside and outside MPAs, methods for effectiveness assessment, and networks or systems. The book should be read by MPA managers and advisors, researchers, and students of conservation, ecosystem and natural resource sciences.'

Mark Costello Source: Biological Conservation