Article Dans Une Revue Movement Ecology Année : 2026

Movement patterns and connectivity of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) in the NW Mediterranean Sea

David M. P. Jacoby
Eric Charbonnel

Résumé

Background Animal movement underpins critical ecological processes and shapes ecosystem resilience. In marine systems, understanding the spatial ecology and connectivity of exploited species is essential for informing conservation and sustainable fisheries management. Despite their ecological and economic importance, the spatio-temporal movement of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) in the Mediterranean Sea remains poorly understood. Methods We leveraged the largest acoustic telemetry dataset ever collected in the Mediterranean as part of the project CONNECT-MED and RESMED, tracking 222 tagged seabream over three years (2019–2022). Using an array of more than 180 strategically positioned acoustic receivers across the Gulf of Lion in both lagoons and the sea, we analysed over 700,000 detections spanning a longitudinal gradient of 200 km. Using individual-based spatial network analysis, we quantified movement dynamics, space use, and connectivity. Results Seabream showed strong seasonal migrations, with wide (> 180 km for some individuals) spatial dispersal during spawning (October–March) and localized movements whilst foraging (April–September). Eastward and southward migration linked lagoon nurseries/foraging areas to offshore spawning areas. The Marseille area (Calanques National Park and Côte Bleue Marine Park) was identified as a major spawning region used by fish across the Gulf of Lion. Movement varied with fish size, with larger fish having more complex and dynamic networks. Autumn saw synchronous lagoon emigration and aggregation at spawning sites, with multi-year site fidelity. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate size-dependent movement strategies in gilthead seabream and reveal structured connectivity linking lagoon foraging areas to offshore spawning grounds. The concentration of spawning activity near Marseille identifies a key regional hotspot of ecological and management importance. Incorporating these connectivity patterns, ontogenetic shifts, and spatial behaviours into fisheries management will be

Dates et versions

hal-05546834 , version 1 (11-03-2026)

Identifiants

Citer

Davide Thambithurai, Tarek Hattab, David M. P. Jacoby, Philippe Lenfant, Bernat Hereu, et al.. Movement patterns and connectivity of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) in the NW Mediterranean Sea. Movement Ecology, 2026, 14 (1), 10 (15p.). ⟨10.1186/s40462-025-00619-5⟩. ⟨hal-05546834⟩
27 Consultations
0 Téléchargements

Altmetric

Partager

  • More