Icarus and Daedalus: conceptual and tactical lessons for marine ecosystem-based management

A growing realization that the oceans are being degraded has led to calls for a fundamental shift in the management of activities that affect marine ecosystems. Insights from research in coastal marine ecosystems will help shape policies that consider interactions between ecosystem components. The concept of connections is central to coastal marine ecology. Connections between: (1) ecosystem structure and functioning; (2) land and sea; (3) marine habitats; (4) species; (5) diverse stressors; and (6) knowledge and uncertainty are of particular importance. These linkages provide conceptual and tactical guidance to inform the transition to ecosystem-based management for the oceans. Conceptual guidance includes recognizing of linkages, expecting of surprises, and avoiding hubris in management. Tactical guidance includes managing coastal systems at watershed scales, emphasizing monitoring, using area-based management, and incorporating the recognition of uncertainties into decision-making. Ultimately, successful management of human activities that affect the oceans will require integrating these conceptual and tactical approaches.