摘要
•Models coupling spatially explicit data of fishing pressure and reef fish metrics were developed to analyse ecological responses to fishing.•The description of fish assemblages through a panel of metrics was essentially based on a functional approach rather than a taxonomic approach.•Accounting for the natural variability of assemblages using multi-scale factors allowed detecting impacts despite moderate fishing contrasts.•Several metrics describing reef fish resources provided potential indicators of fishing impact for moderate levels of fishing pressure.•Similar approaches are much needed for the preventive management of resources and ecosystems when significant changes in fisheries are expected.