Low human interest for the most at-risk reef fishes worldwide
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Human interest in biodiversity is essential for effective conservation action but remains poorly quantified at large scales. Here, we investigated human interest for 2408 marine reef fishes using data obtained from online public databases and social media, summarized in two synthetic dimensions, research effort and public attention. Both dimensions are mainly related to geographic range size. Research effort is also linked to fishery importance, while public attention is more related to fish aesthetic value and aquarium trade importance. We also found a strong phylogenetic bias, with certain fish families receiving disproportional research effort and public attention. Most concerningly, species at the highest risk of extinction and those most vulnerable to future climate change tend to receive less research effort and public attention. Our results provide a lens through which examining the societal attention that species garner, with the ultimate goals to improve conservation strategies, research programs, and communication plans.
Source: Science Advances
Institutions: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Ifremer, Marine Biodiversity Exploitation and Conservation, Fondation Pour la Recherche Sur la Biodiversité, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Écologie Marine Tropicale des Océans Pacifique et Indien, University of North Carolina Wilmington, University of Tasmania, Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, Institut Universitaire de France
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,500
OpenAlex ID: W4400725916