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The bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus, is a highly migratory and long-living fish at the top of the pelagic food web. As top predator, it plays a key role in the stability of marine food webs by exerting top-down control on its prey. The diet composition of bluefin tuna varies in relation to its growth, seasons and migratory patterns, making it difficult to evaluate spatial and temporal effects. This latter aspect is further complicated to be determined during the first months of life, when T. thynnus specimens have a rapid growth rate leading to changes in the trophic status. In this study, the potential collagen-related effects on δ15N and δ13C values were evaluated on the whole spine of adult tuna specimens collected in the central Mediterranean Sea. Obtained results showed non-significant differences between extracted and non-extracted collagen samples for δ15N in whole spine, allowing adopting the isotopic analysis both for annuli in the spine section of adults and for younger specimens, whose spine size does not permit the collagen extraction. Specifically, isotopic analysis of whole spine of the young of the year specimens, showed a rapid change in δ15N values with length, following an exponential model. For older specimens, δ15N values were higher and varied around a plateau, likely due to a higher specificity in the choice of prey and/or to change in the geographical location. Such variability was also mirrored in annuli of spines sections of adult tunas. As far as δ13C values are concerned, a strong collagen-related effect was evidenced, likely highlighting the influence of lipids. Consequently, δ13C analysis may be used only on adult specimens where collagen extraction is possible. This research also showed how isotopic analysis of both whole sample and sequence of annuli in the cross-section of dorsal spine might produce isotopic profiles useful to detect specific trophic dynamics along the bluefin tuna growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Strait of Messina is located at the centre of the Mediterranean Sea and is considered a biodiversity hotspot and an obligatory seasonal passage for different pelagic species such as sharks, marine mammals, and billfishes. For the first time, in the Strait of Messina, our research group tagged a Mediterranean spearfish (Tetrapturus belone) using a pop-up satellite archival tag (PSAT). The observation of abiotic parameters (depth, light, and temperature) recorded by the PSAT confirmed that the tagged specimen was predated after about nine hours. The tag was then regurgitated 14 days after the tag deployment date. The analysis of collected data seems to indicate that the predator may be an ectothermic shark, most likely the bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Abundance and qualitative composition of benthic marine litter were investigated in a coastal area of the central Mediterranean Sea. Almost 30 km of video footage, collected by a Remotely Operated Vehicle between 5 and 30 m depth, were analyzed. Litter density ranged from 0 to 0.64 items/m2 with a mean of 0.11 (±0.16) items/m2. General wastes, made up almost entirely of plastic objects, were the dominant sources of debris representing 68% of the overall litter. The remaining 32% consisted of lost or abandoned fishing gears. Synthetic polymers, considering both fishing gears and general waste, represented 73% of total debris items. Our results are comparable with litter amounts reported in other Mediterranean sites at similar depths. Overall, the results are discussed in terms of monitoring strategy, to support the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (2008/56/EC) for descriptor 10 and the Mediterranean UN Environment (UNEP/MAP) regional Plan on Marine Litter. Highlights • A total of 56 litter items were observed by ROV on a shallow area of 59,616 m2. • The mean density of marine litter for the whole area was 0.11 items 100 m−2. • General wastes represented 67.86% of the overall density. • 73% of all marine litter items was composed by plastics. • Ropes, disposable crockeries and papers accounted for 50% of the total density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine litter is commonly observed everywhere in the ocean. In this study, we analyzed 17 km of video footage, collected by a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) at depths ranging between 20 and 220 m, during 19 transects performed on the rocky banks of the Straits of Sicily. Recently, the Contracting Parties of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) recognized this site as an Ecologically or Biologically Significant Area (EBSA). The research aim was to quantify the abundance of marine litter and its impact on benthic fauna. Litter density ranged from 0 items/100 m 2 to 14.02 items/100 m 2 with a mean (±standard error) of 2.13 (±0.84) items/100 m 2 . The observed average density was higher (5.2 items/100 m 2 ) at depths >100 m than at shallower depths (<100 m, 0.71 items/100 m 2 ). Lost or abandoned fishing lines contributed to 98.07% of the overall litter density, then representing the dominant source of marine debris. Litter interactions with fauna were frequently observed, with 30% of litter causing “entanglement/coverage” and 15% causing damage to sessile fauna. A total of 16 species showed interaction (entanglement/coverage or damage) with litter items and 12 of these are species of conservation concern according to international directives and agreements (CITES, Berne Convention, Habitat Directive, SPA/BD Protocol, IUCN Red List); we also observed 7 priority habitats of the SPA/BD Protocol. This research will support the implementation of monitoring “Harm” as recommended by the UN Environment/MAP Regional Plan on Marine Litter Management in the Mediterranean, and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The institution of a SPAMI in the investigated area could represent a good management action for the protection of this hotspot of biodiversity and to achieve a Good Environmental Status (GES) for the marine environment by 2020, under the MSFD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the hazard from shipwrecks on communities by a holistic approach taking into account different effects on biological communities. Multibeam and Remotely Operated Vehicles surveys recorded ecological assessment of fish and benthic species on three shipwrecks flooded during the Second World War on Maërl beds habitats in the strait of Sicily. Pollution levels of a wide range of chemicals of ecotoxicological concern were also measured in sediments and in fish species from different trophic levels. Statistical analysis evidenced significant differences among pollutant levels between both sediments and fish collected in shipwreck sites and controls. Concerning fish, significant effects due to the vessel's cargo type and flooding position are recorded. In spite of that, our results underline that shipwrecks are also a hotspots of biodiversity and a habitat for preservation strategies in marine ecosystems that need to be monitored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) was used to support fishery analyses aimed to monitor the swordfish harpoon fishing and analyze temporal and spatial patterns of catch distribution, also in relation to the environmental parameter Sea Surface Temperature (SST). The study was carried out in an important reproductive area of the Mediterranean Sea, including the Strait of Messina and nearby areas (south-eastern Tyrrhenian Sea and north-western Ionian sea). These locations also represent the unique fishing ground of the Italian swordfish harpoon fishery. Fishery, environmental and biological data were collected between 2002 and 2011 from fishermen’s logbooks and by observations on-board of fishing vessels during swordfish harpoon fishing season (May to August). Data were organized into a database and structured on a geographical reference to allow a quantitative multi-parameter modelling through the GIS tools. The application of GIS allowed a good visualisation of catch distribution patterns, underlining annual and monthly differences in resource availability to fishery. The analysis of GIS maps showed a change in swordfish behaviour, likely related to SST anomalies and, as a consequence, difference in catch and effort distribution patterns. These differences were more evident if fishes in pair were considered. GIS turned out an important and powerful tool to analyze fishing information; the production of georeferentiated maps helps scientist to an easier interpretation of data on large pelagic resources. The proposed GIS-based analysis can add new information on swordfish and help decision makers in the Mediterranean swordfish management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper investigates the diet and the food composition ofTrachinotus ovatusin the central Mediterranean Sea (Strait of Messina). Moreover, the first documented data on plastic ingestion byT. ovatusare also reported. Samples ranging between 16.5 and 28.0 cm fork length were collected between May and November 2012 in the Strait of Messina (central Mediterranean Sea) by trolling lines.T. ovatusfed mainly on pelagic crustaceans and fishes, although the contribution of mollusks was also important. The absence of dominant prey indicated a generalist feeding behavior. The plastic debris was found in the stomach content ofT. ovatuswith a high percentage of occurrence (%O = 24.3%). Considering the commercial interest thatT. ovatushas in some small-scale fishery markets, the potential impact of plastics on the trophic web and human consumption should be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Length-mass relationships and linear regressions are given for otolith size (length and height) and standard length ( LS) of certain mesopelagic fishes (Myctophidae, Paralepididae, Phosichthyidae and Stomiidae) living in the central Mediterranean Sea. The length-mass relationship showed isometric growth in six species, whereas linear regressions of LS and otolith size fit the data well for all species. These equations represent a useful tool for dietary studies on Mediterranean marine predators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New records of the rare Messina rockfishScorpaenodes arenai(Osteichthyes: Scorpaenidae) stranded on the Sicilian coast of the Strait of Messina (central Mediterranean Sea) are reported. Morphometric and meristic characters are given together with information on age data. The first underwater observations by remotely operated vehicle (ROV) in different Mediterranean areas contribute to improve current knowledge on distribution, behavior and habitat preference of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the occurrence of cephalopod prey in the stomach contents of 35 marine mammals, 19Stenella coeruleoalba, 13Tursiops truncatus, twoGrampus griseusand oneZiphius cavirostris, stranded along the coast of Tuscany (western Mediterranean Sea) between 1990 and 2012. Cephalopod remains were identified to the lowest possible taxon. Overall, 569 individual cephalopods were identified, belonging to 12 families and 17 species. Most of the cephalopods belonged to the Ommastrephidae, Onychoteuthidae and Octopodidae. By species, the highest number of cephalopod species (n= 14) was consumed byS. coeruleoalba(our largest sample), followed byG. griseus(n= 7) andT. truncatus(n= 6). The onlyZ. cavirostrisstomach examined contained just two species, both belonging to the genusHistioteuthis. The results indicated a possible partitioning of cephalopod resources among the sampled predators. Our results also provide new information on the presence of some rare and poorly known cephalopods in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This study focuses, for the first time, on the presence of plastic debris in the stomach contents of large pelagic fish ( Xiphias gladius , Thunnus thynnus and Thunnus alalunga ) caught in the Mediterranean Sea between 2012 and 2013. Results highlighted the ingestion of plastics in the 18.2% of samples. The plastics ingested were microplastics (<5 mm), mesoplastics (5–25 mm) and macroplastics (>25 mm). These preliminary results represent an important initial phase in exploring two main ecotoxicological aspects: (a) the assessment of the presence and impact of plastic debris on these large pelagic fish, and (b) the potential effects related to the transfer of contaminants on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides new data on the swordfish harpoon fishery carried out during 1999–2011 in Italian waters (central Mediterranean Sea), concerning fleet structure and its changes over the last decade, spatial distribution of fishing effort and catches, trend of catch rates, size composition of catches as well as fishing of other species. These data were partially used to implement the MSFD Initial Assessment of Descriptor 3 for Italian waters, and could be useful for the forthcoming application of the EcAp (Ecosystem Approach) process, regarding Ecological Objective 3. Swordfish harpoon fishery is a typical artisanal practice, characterized by selective catches as well as by cherished cultural traditions, being one of the most ancient fisheries in the Mediterranean Sea, with lengthy traditions and close links with local culture. Fishing capacity showed a low, stable level during the sampling period. Fishing effort, in terms of days at sea, was more intense in GSA 19 than in GSA 10, whereas CPUE often resulted higher during June and July in GSA 10 due to the occurrence of fish belonging to pairs during the reproduction period. Over the period 1999–2009, the percentage of females larger than L 50 increased up to almost 100% of the catch in both GSA 10 and GSA 19, underlining the high selectivity of this fishing practice, and might be the result of enforcing strict management measures on Mediterranean swordfish stock in recent years. This study also provided some information on the catch of Tetrapturus belone , whose stock is today regarded as data-poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The feeding habits of the bathypelagic, non-migratory myctophidDiaphus metopoclampusfrom a shrimp fishing ground area in the Strait of Sicily were analyzed. Overall, 296 adult specimens ranging from 50.8 to 92.8 mm standard length (SL) (mean SL = 72.9 ± 8.0 mm) were collected during two trawl surveys (October 2010 and May 2011) and their stomach contents were examined in order to provide new information on prey composition and feeding strategy of this poorly known lanternfish. Differences in diet depending on fish size and time (daylight and night) were also checked by statistical analysis.D. metopoclampusis a zooplanktivorous predator, consuming mainly Crustacea, but also Mollusca, Polychaeta, Chaetognatha, Taliacea and Actinopterygii, and showing a moderate opportunistic feeding strategy.D. metopoclampuscan be ascribed to the group of acyclic predators, since it seems to be a non-migrator myctophid that feeds when prey are available. Statistical analysis indicated a size-related shift in the diet ofD. metopoclampusfrom smaller prey organisms (e.g, Metridinidae) to larger ones (e.g, Euphausiidae and Myctophidae). Some differences in prey composition between daylight and night were highlighted: euphausiids and myctophids were more abundant during night, Metridinidae during daylight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The feeding habits of juvenile fishes belonging to three medusivorous species (Centrolophidae and Nomeidae) from the Strait of Messina (central Mediterranean) during 2009–2010 and 2012 are reported. Individuals were collected after stranding along the shore and their diets were investigated by stomach content analysis. YoungSchedophilus medusophagusshowed a specialist predation on Scyphozoa, based on a strict trophic relationship withPelagia noctiluca. This jellyfish was also found in the stomach contents of juvenileCentrolophus niger, but in this case was not the dominant prey, as juveniles of this predator fed mainly on chaetognaths and crustaceans (primarily amphipods). YoungCubiceps gracilisprimarily fed on chaethognaths, with occasional foraging on copepods and annelids, while no traces of medusae were recorded. The competition amongC. gracilisandC. nigerfor chaetognath food resources was likely mitigated by timing differences in occurrences of these species, probably reflecting seasonal variations in reproductive period and recruitment. The high trophic specialization ofS. medusophagusas jellyfish feeders make this predator one of the most efficient key species involved in the control of jellyfish populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The finding of a rare specimen of Microichthys sanzoi (Epigonidae) stranded on the shore on the Sicilian coast of the Strait of Messina (central Mediterranean Sea) is reported. Morphometric and meristic characters are given and the first colour photograph of a fresh specimen is provided. Information on its prey items is provided together with additional data on otolith morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The pelagic cephalopod fauna of the central Mediterranean Sea was investigated through stomach content analyses of large fish predators. A total of 124 Xiphias gladius, 22 Thunnus thynnus, 100 Thunnus alalunga, and 25 Tetrapturus belone were analyzed. Overall, 3,096 cephalopods belonging to 23 species and 16 families were identified. The cephalopod fauna in the study area is dominated by Sepiolidae, Ommastrephidae, and Onychoteuthidae. The sepiolid Heteroteuthis dispar was the most abundant species ( n = 1,402) while the ommastrephid Todarodes sagittatus showed the highest biomass. They can be considered key-species in the pelagic food web of the study area. The neutrally buoyant Histioteuthis bonnellii, H. reversa, and Chiroteuthis veranyi seem to characterize the deeper water layers. Given the difficulty in sampling pelagic cephalopods, the presence of cephalopod beaks in the stomach of predators represents a fundamental tool to assess the biodiversity and the ecological importance of these taxa in the marine ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swordfish is the target species for harpoon fishery in the Central Mediterranean Sea (southern Tyrrhenian Sea and Strait of Messina). This is a seasonal fishing activity, carried out in daylight during the swordfish's reproductive period. The relationship between sea surface temperature (SST), catches, Catch per Unit Effort (CPUE) and fish swimming behaviour, recorded by direct observation, was investigated between 1999 and 2008. Data from AVHRR-SST (Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer-Sea Surface Temperature), the meteorological station and the swordfish daily catch were recorded. A low presence of pairs was observed in the 2003 summer season, corresponding to an anomalous sea surface temperature recorded in the study area. After 2003, an early presence of pairs (in May rather than in June) was recorded. ANOVA and Bonferroni correction showed significant differences of CPUE of pairs between May and June, and June and August (F3=8.07, P<0.0001). The relationship between immature and mature adult specimens, single and in pairs, four ranges of SST, seven swimming behaviours and five maturity stages was analysed by the multiple correspondence analysis (MCA). Fish in pairs were mainly observed at temperatures over 24°C, showing a well-defined courtship behaviour, i.e. a female route. At lower temperatures, the dominant behaviour was basking in immature fish and breaching in mature fish. A significant relationship between SST and fish behaviour was detected in both immature and mature adult specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides data on age, growth and diet of the bluemouth rockfish, Helicolenus dactylopterus dactylopterus (Scorpaenidae), central Mediterranean Sea. Estimated by otolith readings, ages ranged from 0 to 21 years. Parameters of the von Bertalanffy growth curves were Linf = 26.1 cm, k = 0.14 year−1, t 0 = −1.92 years and the growth performance index was Φ = 1.98. The weight-length relationship, W = 0.016 TL2.99; R2 = 0.99, described an isometric growth of the species. This species is a carnivore focusing mainly on the crustaceans Goneplax rhomboides and Lophogaster typicus. Statistical analysis showed an ontogenetic shift between small (4.0–6.3 cm) and larger fishes. Significant differences were also found in relation to the sampling depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age and growth of pearly razorfish Xyrichtys novacula (Labridae) were determined in specimens caught on sandy bottoms by surrounding nets and lines (depth range 5–30 m) between January 2000 and December 2002. The study location was in the central Mediterranean Sea. For this purpose the annual growth increments (annuli) in sagittae were analysed. A total of 470 individuals of X. novacula, ranging from 49 to 200 mm TL (total length), were examined. Conversion between total length and standard length was calculated and represented by the relationship: . Edge analysis on otoliths was carried out to validate seasonality deposition. Seven age-classes were determined from 0+ to 6+. The linear relationship between maximum otolith length (OL) and TL was summarized in the equation . The estimated parameters of the von Bertalanffy growth function were L ∞ = 175.05 mm, k = 0.80 year−1, t0 =−0.73 years and the growth performance index calculated as ( Φ = 2.39). The length–weight relationship W = 0.0139 TL2.9326 described an isometric growth for the species in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Artisanal or small-scale fishery represents an important share of the Mediterranean fishery, even if it has been poorly investigated until now. In order to improve the knowledge on this sector we studied the Aeolian fishery, with the following aims: (a) to characterize fishery and fishing activities together with their socio-economic aspects; (b) to provide baseline information on the Aeolian fishery to develop appropriate management measures; (c) to discuss the changes in this fishery as a consequence of the implementation of EC Regulation 1239/98 concerning the conversion of boats that used “spadara” driftnet targeting swordfish. The information was collected over the 2006–2007 period by means of interviews aimed at surveying fleet features, fishing gear used, catch and socio-economic data. Aeolian fishery is characterized by small polyvalent boats (n =157, ranging from 4.5 to 15.8m). The highest CPUE values were reported for Thunnus alalunga (50.62±25.79kg/1000 hooks*day) caught by albacore drifting longline in the fall season, Scorpaena scrofa (0.69±0.51kg/500m net*day) by trammel net in summer and Todarodes sagittatus (8.35±2.55kg/day) by squid hand-jig line in winter. The catch is traded in both the wholesale and the retail market. Since the “spadara” driftnet ban, this fishery has undergone changes that are still in progress and that are leading to a greater polyvalence and seasonality of fishing activities. The Aeolian fishery chain needs a new approach to promote the consumption of low-value species and the utilization of less exploited yet more abundant resources available in this area. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In order to assess feeding habits and trophic level of this species, we analysed the stomach content of 189 specimens collected monthly in the southern Tyrrhenian Sea (central Mediterranean Sea). The results showed that this species is a pelagic predator focusing on paralepidid fish and, more in detail, on two species such as Paralepis speciosa and Paralepis coregonoides. Among cephalopods, Heteroteuthis dispar was the most abundant prey item in the stomach contents, whereas among crustaceans the hyperidean amphipods Phrosina semilunata and Brachyscelus crusculum were the most representative species. In the present study, the diet of the albacore did not vary significantly throughout the period of study focusing, in the different season of catch, on the same prey species. Not even a size-related diet shift was observed, with a partitioning of the albacore sample into five size groups. Levin’s standardized index showed a low value indicating a limited trophic niche width, with a diet dominated by a limited number of taxa and then a specialist behaviour for this predator. The estimated TROPH value for T. alalunga resulted very similar to that calculated in Mediterranean Sea for other species as well as Xiphias gladius, Thunnus thynnus, Euthynnus alletteratus and Sarda sarda. Then, the albacore tuna can be considered as a top carnivore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing for swordfish, mainly of immature specimens, are known to be the highest threats for this resource. This study provide a simple and useful tool for the maritime security service to recognize illegal landing sizes (<140 total length) of swordfish even when the specimens are deprived of their bills in order to elude the Italian law (Decreto del Presidente della Repubblica, /68). The purpose of the present paper is to reduce the illegal swordfish fishing in the Mediterranean Sea by supplying an alternative approach to calculate the total length, starting from the lower jaw fork length ( LJFL). In order to do this, the relationships of LJFL- FL and FL- TL of 214 specimens caught in the central Mediterranean Sea were examined by linear regression. Both linear models fit the data significantly at the P < 0.001 level. As the values of R2 were very close to 1, starting from the lower jaw-fork length of swordfish specimens and using these equations, it is possible to estimate the value of total length with a 99% approximation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The finding of a specimen of Eretmophorus kleinenbergi (Moridae) stranded on the shore on the Sicilian coast of the Strait of Messina (central Mediterranean Sea) is reported. Morphometric and meristic characters are given, and the description of sagittal otoliths and a colour photograph of a fresh specimen are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are known to act as “obesogens”, being fat-soluble and affecting lipid metabolism. The Atlantic bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus , are top pelagic predators prone to bioaccumulate and biomagnify environmental contaminants. This study aimed at evaluating POPs-induced ectopic lipid accumulation in liver of adult tuna from the Mediterranean Sea. PCBs and organochlorine pesticides were measured in tuna liver, and marked morphological changes observed, namely poorly compacted tissues, intense vacuolization, erythrocyte infiltration and presence of melanomacrophages. The expression of perilipin, a lipid-droplet marker, positively correlated with the gene expression of PPARγ, a master regulator of adipogenesis, and its heterodimeric partner, RXRα. Changes in metabolites involved in fatty acid biosynthesis and ketogenesis were also observed. Although male bluefin tuna appeared to be more sensitive than females to the adverse effects of environmental obesogens, the alterations observed in tuna liver of both sexes suggest a potential onset of hepatic steatosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study highlights for the first time the presence of plastic debris in the stomachs of Mediterranean lanternfishes (Myctophidae): Electrona risso, Diaphus metopoclampus, Hygophum benoiti and Myctophum punctatum. Samples were collected in the central Mediterranean Sea between 2010 and 2014. Plastics ingested belonged to small microplastics (0.2 - 2 mm), large microplastics (2 - 5 mm) and mesoplastics (5 - 25 mm), having mainly clear colors. Their frequency of occurrence in stomachs was equal to 2.7%, but it increases to 5.8% if only migratory species are considered. The higher number of plastics was found in E. risso and H. benoiti (5 in both species). The plastic ingestion may represent a risk for vertical migrant lanternfishes due to the increase in buoyancy. Ecotoxicological aspects linked to the potential effects of contaminants on lanternfish biology and to the transfer of pollutants throughout the marine trophic web up to top predators should be deepened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This 2-year study was aimed to investigate the early effects of protection measures on fish assemblage in the Plemmirio marine reserve and to evaluate its level of enforcement. Sampling was carried out by means of underwater visual census techniques in four sampling sites within the reserve boundaries and eight outside the reserve. Results showed significant inside/outside differences in the multivariate abundance of fish assemblage. These results were confirmed and exemplified by significant univariate differences between locations for total abundance, Species Richness and diversity of the fish assemblage; values of these metrics were higher inside the reserve than outside. Small fish size and species of low and medium fishing value did not display significant inside/outside differences in abundances whereas medium, large size fish and high value species showed abundances significantly higher inside the marine reserve. Protection effects were particularly evident for large specimens of high fishing value, most of which were exclusively found inside the reserve (Diplodus puntazzo, Epinephelus costae, Mycteroperca rubra, Scorpaena scrofa, Spondyliosoma cantharus, Sciaena umbra and Epinephelus marginatus). The present study provides evidence of a reserve effect on fish populations after only five years since its establishment. This is an extraordinary result likely due to the high level of enforcement observed inside the Plemmirio MPA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]