Fisheries resources are in a state of decline throughout the world’s seas. Overexploitation, destruction of habitats essential for the maintenance of healthy fish stocks and upland sources of pollution are some of the main factors associated with this decline. In many countries it is the small-scale or artisanal fisheries and the dependent communities and families that are the first to feel the impact of such losses. Artisanal fisheries often form an important if not the sole source of income and protein for many local coastal communities.

Assessing the size, growth rate and structure of a seasonal population of whale sharks using conventional tagging and photo identification
Population size and structure of whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) remain unknown despite their economic importance to targeted tourism and fisheries and their 2002 listing on