Marine ecosystems are undergoing unprecedented transformations driven by climate change and human influence, from cyclones and warming seas to the spread of offshore structures like wind farms and oil platforms. As key players in these evolving seascapes, fish are indicators and integrators of ecosystem health. My talk will delve into two pioneering research projects: the use of fish communities in ecosystem-based restoration and the evaluation of large marine infrastructures as emerging 'novel ecosystems' that may serve as fish habitats. Beyond their ecological role, these structures have the potential to enhance regional productivity and fisheries value. However, the decommissioning of such installations poses questions about potential ecosystem impacts, highlighting the need for informed, future-focused practices for marine infrastructure.
Further, our experimental system offers insights into maximizing ecosystem resilience, particularly post-recovery, by examining the crucial interactions between fish and coral. Understanding these dynamics provides a foundation for supporting coral reef resilience in the face of ongoing environmental pressures. These studies emphasize the urgent need for evidence-based, scalable strategies to balance conservation with sustainable development in our oceans.