Stakeholders’ perceptions of eagle ray aggregation management in a Mediterranean marine protected area: a Q methodology approach

The Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area (EI-MPA, central Mediterranean) is a large MPA characterized by an economy based on tourism and artisanal fishing embedded in a complex governance structure. The discovery of an aggregation site for the common eagle ray, Myliobatis aquila has boosted its touristic attractiveness, especially as regards scuba diving. We have applied an approach based on the Q methodology to assess the perceptions of the main stakeholder categories concerning the presence of the common eagle ray aggregation and its effects on local economy. Thirty statements (the Q-set ) were submitted to 13 participants (the P-set ). The discourses highlighted by the Q analysis were grouped in four visions: (1) collaborative stewardship, (2) sufficiency, (3) evidence-driven coexistence, and (4) eco-centrism. A synthesis of identified conflicts, the identification of their sources, the interpretation of visions in terms of management perspectives and the possible pathways towards consensus were provided. The analysis of the four visions suggests that the opinions of local stakeholders are different in terms of acceptance of institutional actions, levels of regulation, and socio-economic implications of the potential conservation measures. We suggest that establishing a formal, permanent dialogue mechanism involving the MPA authority, fishers, diving operators, tourism service providers, scientists, and enforcement agencies, which takes into consideration economical as well as ecological issues would provide the basis for a shared and accepted management of the common eagle ray aggregation and for its conservation.