Have tropical marine protected areas worked? An initial analysis of their success

Abstract

This article presents an analysis of a survey of the current state of marine protected area (MPA) management and describes possible factors associated with their perceived success throughout the tropics. Considerable progress has been made in the establishment of MPAs in both developing and developed nations, but the formulation and implementation of management plans has lagged behind. Funding, expertise, and lack of information have constrained planning and management of MPAs in several tropical nations. Despite the promotion of ecologically sustainable development and the involvement of local communities or stakeholders within protected areas, few countries incorporate these principles in the management of MPAs. Tropical MPAs are considered to be of limited success by area managers. Several interrelated factors, such as strategic planning and reliance on coastal resources and zoning schemes, may influence the success of these areas.