When marine protected areas (MPAs) were established off the coast of Kenya in 2000, local fishers initially protested, fearing economic losses. Twenty years later, fish populations within the protected zones have increased by 400%, and catches in adjacent fishing areas have also risen significantly as fish migrate outward from the reserves.
The passage suggests that
marine protected areas always harm local fishing industries
Kenyan fishers continue to oppose the protected areas
conservation measures can eventually benefit the communities that initially opposed them
fish populations outside protected areas have declined
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The passage shows how initial opposition gave way to eventual benefits.
- Context clues: Fishers "initially protested" fearing losses, but catches "have also risen significantly."
- Meaning: The contrast between initial fears and positive outcomes shows concerns were addressed over time.
- Verify: The fishers who feared harm now experience improved catches.
💡 Strategy: Trace the progression from initial concerns to eventual outcomes to infer overall effects.
Choice A is incorrect because catches have improved, not been harmed. Choice B is incorrect because "initially protested" implies eventual acceptance. Choice D is incorrect because catches in adjacent areas "risen significantly."