High expectation, low implementation: perceptions of African fish and fisheries experts on genetic indicators in fisheries management

Abstract

Genetic indicators are parameters based on genetic information, such as differences in DNA sequences between individuals, populations or species, used to summarize their state. The inclusion of genetic indicators into the management of natural resources, such as fisheries, has gained traction in the last two decades. Through their unique ecosystems, socio-economic challenges, and limited accessibility of genetic technology, African fisheries stakeholders are expected to harbour different opinions and needs than those in non-African countries. Yet, diverse views on the topic are not well-documented. Using a structured online survey, we gathered the opinions of 122 experts in different fisheries-related fields from 41 African and 77 non-African countries. The questions were designed to compare 1) their opinions on current challenges and expectations towards indicators for fisheries monitoring, 2) their awareness and usage of genetic and non-genetic indicators, and 3) the importance attributed to, and their willingness to implement, genetic indicators. Perceived current challenges and needs were similar among demographic and professional backgrounds, with some influence of the respondents’ expertise. Awareness of genetic indicators was high and similar between African and non-African countries. African experts were less likely to implement genetic indicators, especially those belonging to the older generation. African respondents were more positive towards the use of genetic indicators and more willing to start implementation. Our results highlight the need to align goals between different fisheries-related fields and a positive development in the implementation of genetic tools by young African experts. We suggest strategies to address the identified issues.