Complexities of fisheries and fisheries research: A comment on “Behavior of the Galapagos fishing fleet and its consequences for the design of spatial management alternatives for the red spiny lobster fishery” by Bucaram et al. (2013). doi:10.1016/j.oceco

A recent study (Bucaram et al., 2013) provides a contribution on the behavior of the Galapagos fishing fleet for spiny lobster (Panulirus penicillatus and P. gracilis). This comment supplements that study by resolving some gaps in its understanding of existing knowledge on the structure and dynamics of Galapagos fisheries. Specifically, we highlight the literature already available on Galapagos fishing behavior, the breadth and impact of the participatory process contributing to the Galapagos fishery co-management framework, and the relevance of previous fishery policy recommendations. As highlighted in this published literature, there is a need for further studies of fishing behavior in the Galapagos Islands; such studies can be of greatest benefit by building on the current knowledge base on fishing behavior and its management implications.