What’s cuter than these photo-bombing lobsters? We’re not sure, but thanks to a new study, we do know that animals like this green abalone bounce back faster in marine protected areas (MPAs). In a recently published study, researchers used model simulations of the green abalone to compare the effectiveness of fisheries management with and without MPAs in species recovery. Animals like green abalone lack the ability to move quickly over large distances, even when a catastrophic event occurs. Powerful storms, widespread viruses, and overharvesting can decimate these animals and cause populations to decline dangerously. This research provides a hopeful, viable solution for species conservation and provides further support for the use of MPAs in protecting the resilience of marine organisms following catastrophic events. Photo by Charlie Boch. #Abalone #lobster #marineprotectedareas #oceanhealth #conservation #MPAs #fisheries #ocean #marinebiology #oceanlife #sealife #oceanconservation #OceanOptimism #ecology #photobomb