Shark populations have suffered dramatic declines across the world as a result of overfish- ing. Marine protected areas (MPAs) can help restore overfished populations; however, their effectiveness largely relies on understanding the ecology of the targeted species. This study investigated the spatial ecology of the intensely harvested but understudied small spotted cat- shark (Scyliorhinus canicula) through acoustic telemetry in the C´ıes Islands, a small MPA in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula. There were significant effects of diel, seasonal cycles, biotic (sex and total length) and abiotic (bottom sea temperature) variables on the spatial ecology of S. canicula. The mean residency index was low (0.27) and movement patterns suggested a strong connection with inshore waters. While the probability of presence in the study area was mainly driven by sex (i.e. greater for females), a drastic increase in activity was observed at night (compared to day hours). Activity space decreased with larger body sizes. Warmer waters were related to higher activity levels and larger activity spaces. This study offers an essential foundation for comprehending key aspects of the behaviour of S. canicula, with significant im- plications for the conservation and management of this species. The present findings suggest the failure of small MPAs to efficiently protect the whole range of movements of S. canicula, however, they show their ability to offer protection for part of the population (i.e. females). Finally, this work reveals temporal instances when S. canicula are at its maximum vulnerability and the conservation benefits that this species could gain from the implementation of temporal fishing restrictions. To be effective for S. canicula conservation, MPAs should be appropriately sized and designed for the ranging behaviour of the target species for total protection. Temporal restrictions of fishing at night time mirroring the peak activity pattern of S. canicula could be implemented to limit the probability of its capture

Poster.-- 6th International Conference on Fish Telemetry, Sète (France), 11-16 June 2023.-- Close Encounters IIM (3rd Kind), Vigo, 23 June 2022

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