Sicilian Coastal Biodiversity through Small-Scale Fishery: An Innovative Approach.

The catch of small-scale fishery by trammel net along the Sicilian coast, between the years 1997 and 1999, was investigated. The biodiversity of the catch was considered among six sample ports. Richness (S), Simpson's index (d), Pielou's index (J) and Shannon-Wiener's index (H) were used as measures of biodiversity. The richness of fish species is particularly important for monitoring habitat degradation and human impact. The very high biodiversity of the Mediterranean sea is under pressure from human impact and climate change. The study of the biodiversity of the catch of small-scale fishery is a useful means to investigate the condition of coastal areas where human impact and pollution are particularly strong.