Enhancing our understanding of fish movement ecology through interdisciplinary and cross-boundary research

Animals need to move between different habitats to successfully complete their life cycle. Anthropogenic activities and infrastructure impact animal movement, especially in the aquatic realm, due to habitat alteration (including fragmentation), pollution, overexploitation, the spread of invasive alien species and climate change. Gaining knowledge on the complex phenomenon of fish movement is essential to understand the diverse ways in which anthropogenic activities may influence the spatial ecology of fish, which can inform management. The four main methods to study fish movement are through observation and interception, electronic tracking, otolith chemistry and environmental DNA. We discuss the strengths and shortcomings of these methods and suggest effective management can be aided by combining these and other methods. Often the weaknesses of one technique can be met by the strengths of the others. Also, cross-boundary collaboration is essential for the successful management of fish that move over jurisdictional boundaries to complete their life cycle. Data analyses on interdisciplinary datasets obtained at spatial scales relevant to the movement ecology of a given population can yield a more holistic understanding of fish movement. This knowledge may help for the appropriate selection of cost-efficient, evidence-based and effective management actions that balance the needs of fishes and human activities. [GRAPHICS] .

Automated summary

Animals need to move between different habitats to complete their life cycle, but anthropogenic activities and infrastructure have a negative impact on animal movement, especially in aquatic habitats. Understanding fish movement is crucial for understanding how human activities affect the spatial ecology of fish, which can inform management strategies. Various methods, such as observation, tracking, and DNA analysis, can be used to study fish movement, and combining these methods can improve management efforts. It is important for different jurisdictions to collaborate in managing fish that move across boundaries. Interdisciplinary data analysis can provide a holistic understanding of fish movement and help in selecting cost-effective and evidence-based management actions that balance the needs of fish and human activities.