The project ‘Canarias, por una costa viva (CCV)’ was an integrated research and educational initiative that run between 2003 – 2004 with the goals of gathering robust scientific information of keystone coastal habitats and the promotion of public awareness about responsible uses of marine resources in the Canary Islands (Central East Atlantic Ocean). Sampling effort has been carried out biannually at 100 locations around the coastlines of the overall Canary Islands. Specifically, we have studied the conservation status of key fish species and their role in their ecosystems. The relationship between the human population, the natural environment and the pressures it supports has been observed in different anthropogenically stressed areas (sewage areas, shell fishing activity, sea-cage fish farms and ports) and preserved areas.