Ecological Network

A set of discrete MPAs within a region that are connected through dispersal of reproductive stages (eggs, larvae, spores, etc.) or movement of juveniles and adults. The effective management of certain marine species may require networks of discrete MPAs encompassing regional connections of local populations linked by dispersal and movement, which may be essential for some local populations to persist. The creation of MPA networks must take into consideration other non-MPA areas that provide similar linkages, which does not necessarily imply additional management measures outside MPAs or the creation of a "super MPA" with boundaries encompassing all MPAs in the network.