Aquatic connectivity: challenges and solutions in a changing climate

Franklin, Paul A.; Bašić, Tea; Davison, Phil I.; Dunkley, Katie; Ellis, Jonathan; Gangal, Mayuresh; González-Ferreras, Alexia M.; Gutmann Roberts, Catherine; Hunt, Georgina; Joyce, Domino; Klöcker, C. Antonia; Mawer, Rachel; Rittweg, Timo; Stoilova, Velizara; Gutowsky, Lee Frank Gordon

Abstract

The challenge of managing aquatic connectivity in a changing climate is exacerbated in the presence of additional anthropogenic stressors, social factors, and economic drivers. Here we discuss these issues in the context of structural and functional connectivity for aquatic biodiversity, specifically fish, in both the freshwater and marine realms. We posit that adaptive management strategies that consider shifting baselines and the socio-ecological implications of climate change will be required to achieve management objectives. The role of renewable energy expansion, particularly hydropower, is critically examined for its impact on connectivity. We advocate for strategic spatial planning that incorporates nature-positive solutions, ensuring climate mitigation efforts are harmonized with biodiversity conservation. We underscore the urgency of integrating robust scientific modelling with stakeholder values to define clear, adaptive management objectives. Finally, we call for innovative monitoring and predictive decision-making tools to navigate the uncertainties inherent in a changing climate, with the goal of ensuring the resilience and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.

Citation

Franklin, P. A., Bašić, T., Davison, P. I., Dunkley, K., Ellis, J., Gangal, M., González-Ferreras, A. M., Gutmann Roberts, C., Hunt, G., Joyce, D., Klöcker, C. A., Mawer, R., Rittweg, T., Stoilova, V., & Gutowsky, L. F. G. (2024). Aquatic connectivity: challenges and solutions in a changing climate. Journal of fish biology, https://doi.org/10.1111/jfb.15727

• Journal Article Type: Review
• Acceptance Date: Feb 27, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Apr 7, 2024
• Publication Date: 2024
• Deposit Date: Apr 23, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 23, 2024
• Journal: Journal of Fish Biology
• Print ISSN: 0022-1112
• Electronic ISSN: 1095-8649
• Publisher: Wiley
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/jfb.15727
• Keywords: Biodiversity conservation; Climate change; Ecosystem resilience; Fish passage; Migration; Spatial planning
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4628331