Systematic reviews (SR) are powerful tools to synthesise existing scientific knowledge. The information generated can be more accessible to policymakers, representing a fundamental support for science-informed management. In this study, we apply a SR protocol framework to investigate marine biodiversity research conducted inside Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), a well-established biological conservation measure, in Sicily, Italy. Sicily represents a critical case study for Italy and the Mediterranean region, where 7 MPAs are present - the oldest established in 1986 and the latest in 2018. 

To answer the research question: “What is the ecological knowledge held by the scientific community on marine biodiversity of established MPAs at Sicilian regional level?” a total of N=130 final records have been screened (initial N=529). Studies performed inside the MPA were considered and synthetized following both structural, spatial and research approach criterias: i) subject of the study and conservation status, ii) response level of biological organisation analysed, iii) study approach, iv) driver of disturbance analysed (when applicable), v) accuracy of the spatial reference, vi) conservation level compared, vii) temporal trend, and viii) depth analysed. 

Results show 80% of the studies focused on monitoring the marine biodiversity of the MPAs, 11% on modelling, and only 4% applied multiple approaches. A considerable percentage (37%) focuses on single-management levels. Regarding sampling sites, 22% of the studies do not provide accurate georeferences. The majority of the studies specify depth (78%), with half of these (53%) focusing on marine biodiversity above 20 meters depth.  

With limited resources for biodiversity research implementation, and ambitious objectives set by European Biodiversity Strategy, such as the 30x30 initiative and the Nature Restoration Regulation, it becomes fundamental to collate already-existing scientific knowledge, to identify research gaps, low-data regions and ecosystems, supporting science-informed policies in building a coherent network of MPAs through an Ecosystem-Based Management approach.