Andrew Tobin

Much of the research Dr Tobin is involved with is attempting to determine what if any benefits marine protection zones (MPZs) have in sustaining fisheries. He sees this area of research as vitally important as the primary goal of MPZs is often not for fisheries but for ecosystem protection.

Many fishers are frustrated by this principle, particularly when traditional fisheries management tools (such as size, catch and gear restrictions) already limit fisheries harvests.

Dr Tobin believes that the focus now needs to be firmly on understanding the benefits each fisheries target species may gain from MPZs so that these benefits can be considered in the future assessment, monitoring and management of our fisheries. Read more