The Artificial Habitat, an Evolutionary Strategic Tool for Integrated Coastal Area Management

Abstract

The growing demand for marine fisheries resources (95 million tons in 2006, a number that should increase by 2–3% globally each year, UNESCO 2007) as well as the global outlook in terms of population growth (in 2050 the world population is expected to reach 8.9 billion persons, UNFPA 2004) represents a real threat to the worlds fish stocks. This threat deals particularly, in short and medium terms, with offshore or coastal fish stock (Worms et al. 2006; Cury 2008).

In order to address alimentary and socio-cultural food issues, to act on preserving and developing resources, the crisis manager generally focuses on two fundamental principles: (1) to act on preserving the species by managing fishing efforts and limiting catches (an example of management by the policy of “TAC” and “quotas” fishing); (2) to impact the environment by developing, for example, marine ranching and by expanding artificial coastal habitats with “artificial reefs.” In light of their systematic developmental approach (FAO 1995), we prefer to use the term: “artificial habitats” (or AH). Based on the Japanese experience in the field of artificial habitats, and on a feasibility study in the town of Saint-Leu (Reunion Island), we will study the methodology and planning proposals for implementing an ICAM strategy that is essential to the success of the development of fishery facilities (Denis 2001; Henocque, Leçons et futur de la gestion intégrée des zones côtières dans le monde, VertigO – La revue en sciences de lenvironnement 2006).

Our contribution will be based on a geo-socio-systemic approach pertaining to artificial habitats in the coastal area. In order to reach this goal (to restore, maintain, or increase the fish level), it is imperative that HA implementation be considered as part of a concerted methodology using an eco-systemic and a socio-systemic approach for sustainable territory enhancement.