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Assessing the Status and Conservation of Seahorses in Peninsular Malaysia: A Multifaceted Stakeholder Approach

par Nuñez Martinez, Maider
Promoteur Jean, Hugé
Co-Promoteur Mohd Effendy, Abd. Wahid;Segaran, Thirukanthan Chandra
Publication Non publié, 2024-08-29

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Résumé :

Every year millions of seahorses (genus Hippocampus) are traded worldwide to be used in traditional medicine, as ornamental species, and in the aquarium industry. Despite their inclusion in Appendix II of CITES in 2004 and ongoing monitoring by the IUCN, seahorse populations are experiencing a significant decline due to these pressures and other anthropogenic factors. The decline is especially notable in Malaysia, where 12 seahorse species inhabit and numerous pressures converge. Malaysia has historically been one of the top seahorse exporters globally, and consumption and trade have not ceased. In light of this situation, we collected and assessed the viewpoints, knowledge and practices of several stakeholders (scientists, conservationists, policymakers, coastal community members, fishermen, aquarium industry staff and traditional medicine practitioners) towards seahorse populations and their conservation in Malaysia. This information could act as a tool to fill in the gaps of knowledge and paint a clearer picture of the complex factors that seahorses’ survival depends on. Using questionnaires, we surveyed 44 respondents and conducted quantitative and qualitative analyses, revealing that stakeholders differ in some opinions yet also agree on the alarming status of seahorses and the importance of improved conservation efforts in Malaysia. This study underscores the relevance of integrating diverse stakeholder perspectives and expertise to develop effective conservation strategies for seahorses. The findings contribute to a better understanding of seahorse conservation challenges in Malaysia and also offer insights that could be applicable to the conservation of other species and habitats, providing a valuable baseline for future research.