Publications
A review of gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) on their wintering grounds in Mexican waters
Recent research suggests that the Eastern North Pacific gray whale population (Eschrichtius robustus) may be approaching or exceeding its carrying capacity, as indicated by increased mortality rates across all age and sex classes. This review synthesizes decades of study on gray whales' winter breeding grounds in Baja California, Mexico, highlighting their critical coastal lagoon habitats for reproductive success. It examines historical exploitation, conservation efforts, and both natural and human-induced threats to the population while proposing future research and monitoring directions. The focus is on findings from mid-1970s onward, offering a comprehensive overview of this recovered cetacean's status and challenges.
Impacts of Climate Change in the El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve (REBIVI): Challenges for Coastal Communities and the Conservation of Biodiversity
A combination of ecosystem-based and community-based adaptation strategies is the most effective approach to mitigate climate change impacts in the El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve (REBIVI), Baja California Sur, Mexico. This conclusion emerges from workshops involving local communities that identified Socio-ecological Assets for Conservation (SEACs) and prioritized adaptation actions using multicriteria analysis. The study underscores the necessity of a socioecological approach to land and biodiversity use planning, emphasizing the critical role of community participation in implementing and monitoring these adaptations to ensure both human welfare and conservation success.
New fish species added to the ichthyofauna of Laguna Ojo de Liebre, Baja California Sur, México
A recent study has identified eight new fish species in Laguna Ojo de Liebre, Baja California Sur, Mexico, bringing the total ichthyofauna count to 39 species across 25 families. This significant addition updates previous records from two decades ago and suggests potential impacts of anomalous warming events on marine biodiversity. Researchers conducted six seasonal visits between June 2015 and August 2016, employing diving, trapping, hook & line, and gillnet commercial fishing techniques to document the fish species. The findings contribute crucial baseline data before the installation of reef modules aimed at supporting red lobster and fish aggregation in this UNESCO-listed Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino.
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