A framework for mapping local knowledge on ciguatera and artisanal fisheries to inform systematic conservation planning

Abstract Millions of people’s livelihoods rely on artisanal fisheries. However, in many regions fishers are increasingly facing ciguatera poisoning, a seafood-borne illness. The toxin, produced by benthic dinoflagellates, can spread through marine food webs and to humans direct consumption. Ciguatera risk play major role fisher’s activities but has never been considered any spatial plans thus far. To fill this gap, we examined if integrating systematic conservation could affect these decisions. We developed map-based interviews, novel seven-step framework collect map local knowledge fisheries with two innovations: (i) better mapping fishing grounds combining geomorphological habitat gear information, (ii) directly into planning designs scenarios conceived maximize while minimizing impacts fishers. approach is illustrated for Raivavae Island, French Polynesia, Pacific Ocean. found that significantly improved prioritization solutions 24–38% decrease costs compared based solely fishery data. This was designed scientists managers optimize the implementation be generalized ciguatera-prone areas.