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Mixed preferences for lionfish encounters on reefs in Tobago: Results from a choice experiment

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  • Alemu I, Jahson Berhane
  • Schuhmann, Peter
  • Agard, John

Abstract

Despite well publicised knowledge of the spread and potential negative impacts of lionfish in the Caribbean, there has been little attempt to assess the economic costs of lionfish as an ecosystem disservice relative to the recreational amenity value associated with viewing an exotic and unique species. We use choice experiments to explore the determinants of recreational divers' and snorkellers' willingness-to-pay for marginal changes water quality, reef quality, fish diversity and lionfish sightings in Tobago. Expectedly, on-reef recreationalists showed strong preferences and willingness-to-pay for better water quality, reef quality and fish diversity. However, snorkellers showed mixed preferences for lionfish, favouring some lionfish on reefs relative to none. Recreational divers perceived all lionfish levels as negative and are willing-to-pay more than snorkellers for high quality reef attributes. Overall, the presence of lionfish on reefs in Tobago induces more losses than benefits. Choice differences between groups highlights the importance of policy that recognises heterogeneous preferences for ecosystem services and points to the need for continued engagement with stakeholders regarding ecosystem services and disservices. Additionally, our study showed that water quality is a critical driver of economic value for on–reef recreation. Therefore, policy should strive to alleviate adverse impacts on coastal water quality.

Suggested Citation

  • Alemu I, Jahson Berhane & Schuhmann, Peter & Agard, John, 2019. "Mixed preferences for lionfish encounters on reefs in Tobago: Results from a choice experiment," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 164(C), pages 1-1.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecolec:v:164:y:2019:i:c:18
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolecon.2019.106368
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    Cited by:

    1. John Robinson, Peter & van Beukering, Pieter & Brander, Luke & Brouwer, Roy & Haider, W. & Taylor, Michael & Mau, Paulus, 2022. "Understanding the determinants of biodiversity non-use values in the context of climate change: Stated preferences for the Hawaiian coral reefs," Ecosystem Services, Elsevier, vol. 53(C).
    2. Alemu, Jahson Berhane & Ishmael-Lalla, Medina & Mannette, Ryan P. & Williams, Giles J. & Agard, John, 2021. "Hydro-morphological characteristics provide insights into coral reef ecosystem services and disservices," Ecosystem Services, Elsevier, vol. 49(C).

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