Ecosystem Benefits Protection of the structure and function of ocean ecosystems is another important benefit of no-take reserves. The value of such natural ecosystem attributes is often only appreciated after its elimination. No-take reserves provide relatively undisturbed areas for study of natural ecosystem processes, including the factors that limit the survival and reproduction of commercially valuable species. Such findings will greatly assist management of fisheries for long-term sustainability. The decline of many species of west coast rockfishes illustrates the need for no-take reserves.
Rockfishes grow slowly, reproduce late, and live long.
In their variable habitat, such life history attributes are beneficial adaptations that allow large pulses of reproduction during the infrequent periods of favorable conditions. The west coast groundfish fishery over the last several decades has systematically depleted the biomass of many rockfish species and eliminated a diverse legacy of fish produced through many decades of varying conditions. Now, few adults are available to reproduce even when conditions are favorable. Consistently low levels of recruitment will likely slow the recovery of depleted rockfish species for many years. West Coast Leadership California has shown great leadership in the marine reserve process.