Poster Session July 2 (Fri)

Poster 1-2 Reproduction and Recruitment of Corals 10th ICRS

Induction of Metamorphosis in Larvae of the Brooding Corals Acropora Settlement Patterns and Early Life History Strategies of the Dominant palifera and Stylophora pistillata Reef Building Corals at Selected Sites on Maui, Hawaii Andrew H BAIRD*, Aileen A MORSE Eric K BROWN* Townsville, QLD 4811 Australia P.O. Box 1346, Kaneohe, Hawaii 96744 United States of America [email protected] [email protected]

Many coral larvae require surface contact with crustose red algae (CRA) to Settlement, growth, and survivorship of recruits of the dominant reef building induce metamorphosis. However, many features of the ecology of pocilloporid corals around Maui, Hawaii were investigated over a 2 year period from 1999 corals, such as their ability to colonise primary substrata, suggest that these to 2001. Terracotta tiles were deployed at 6 sites along an exposed coastline. larvae respond to different cues. We compared the metamorphosis of larvae of Every 6 months tiles were examined in vivo and redeployed in the same the brooding corals Stylophora pistillata (F. Pocilloporidae) and Acropora locations. Recruits (n=4,588) were identified down to genus, measured, palifera (F. Acroporidae) in response to a variety of environmental cues. A. assessed (e.g. live, dead, bleached, fission, fusion, partial mortality, and palifera metamorphosed only in the presence of 3 species of CRA. In contrast, “phoenix”) and tracked on multiple plate surfaces to distinguish between new S. pistillata metamorphosed in all assays, except those containing the brown and pre-existing recruits. Broadcast spawning Montipora spp. had significantly alga Lobophora sp. Metamorphosis was highest (80 ± 20%) in unfiltered higher recruitment levels (p=0.004) of 329±213 m-2 yr-1 but grew slowly over seawater, however, metamorphosis also occurred in 0.2 μm-filtered seawater. the first 6 months (0.01±0.08 mm2 week-1) and suffered high proportional These results suggest that S. pistillata larvae respond to both large and small mortality (0.89±0.03). Pocillopora spp. recruits had low overall recruitment water borne molecular cues. The lack of a stringent requirement for surface levels (32±11 m-2 yr-1) but compensated by growing faster in the first 6 months contact with CRA will allow S. pistillata larvae to pre-empt species which (0.19±0.15 mm2 week-1) with intermediate proportional mortality (0.86±0.05). require a more developed fouling community to induce metamorphosis. This Finally, Porites spp. recruits that represented both broadcast and brooding feature of larval ecology may be the key to understanding the success of many spawners exhibited low to intermediate recruitment levels (76±39 m-2 yr-1) with opportunistic benthic species. intermediate growth (0.16±0.04 mm2 week-1) and lower proportional mortality (0.79±0.05) than the other two genera. Survivorship for recruits tracked over 18 months was not significantly different among genera (p=0.09) but varied by site (p=0.006) and plate surface (p=0.001). A possible explanation for the observed life history patterns is that Montipora spp. in Hawaii puts more energy into initial settlement than post settlement survival. In contrast, Pocillopora spp. and Porites spp. devoted resources to faster growth (e.g. Pocillopora spp.) and/or survivability (e.g. Porites spp.) in the early stages of settlement.

Dynamics and Pattern of Coral Recolonization Following the 1998 Reproductive Effort of Mussismilia braziliensis (Verrill, 1868) (Cnidaria, Bleaching Event in the Reefs of the Maldives Scleractinia, Mussidae) in the Abrolhos Reef Complex, Brazil Francesca BENZONI*, Michel PICHON, Paolo COLANTONI, Alice C CAPARELLI, Debora O PIRES, Barbara SEGAL* Giuseppe BALDELLI, Carla MORRI, Carlo Nike BIANCHI Quinta da Boa Vista, Sao Cristovao, Rio de Janeiro Federative Republic of Dip. di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Brazil Italy [email protected] [email protected] Brazil has the only true coral reefs in the South Atlantic. Abrolhos is considered the largest and richest coral reef area in Brazil. The diversity of scleractinian The 1998 bleaching event, which followed abnormally high sea surface reef coral species is low, with a high rate of endemism (15, with 5 endemics). temperatures (up to 34˚,C) caused widespread coral mortality in the reefs of the Maldives. As early as 1999, recolonization had started and many newly settled The genus Mussismilia is endemic to Brazil, and M. braziliensis is endemic juvenile colonies were recorded. A dramatic decrease in numbers of juveniles between latitudes 12˚ and 19˚ S. This species is very common and plays an was observed between 1999 and 2000, followed by a stabilization in the important role as one of the major reef builders in the area. Three different sites following years. Taxonomic composition of recruits shifted from a dominance were sampled in the Abrolhos Reef Complex, located at different distances of Agariciidae in the early stages of recolonization toward a dominance of from the coast. Fragments of ten colonies were collected in each site, during Acroporidae and Pocilloporidae. An inventory of the scleractinian carried out in their reproductive peak, and fixed in 10% formalin. Reproductive effort was 2002 showed that the specific diversity of Maldivian corals has not decreased. estimated through fecundity (number of eggs per polyp). Data were translated No local extinction can be reported, but a number of previously abundant into number of eggs per cm2. A new staining method was used to ease species are now rare. Conversely, substratum cover is still very low, and the identifying and counting eggs in the dissected polyps. The accuracy of the tridimensional structure of the reef is largely lost lost due to the destruction of quantification of eggs obtained through dissection was compared with dead colonies, which were reduced to rubble. Contrary to early expectations, histological analyses, and showed no significant difference (p=0.1619). Our Maldivian reefs do not seem to be undergoing a phase shift toward a dominance data show that fecundity increases as the polyp volume increases (r2=0.922; of fleshy algae, soft corals, or corals different from Acropora and Pocillopora p=0.000). The percentages of fertile mesenteries were similar among sites. . Rather, reef recovery seems to follow a predictable ecological succession However, the number of eggs varied among polyps, colonies and sites. The area toward the pre-existing situation. Tabular Acropora which had almost closest to the coast ("Pedra de Leste") presents the highest mean completely disappeared in 1998 are now recorded again with an average size of fecundity (233,43± 219,4[s.d.]) per cm2. This area presents the highest up to 40 cm for some colonies. The hypothesis of emergency spawning, contribution of siliciclastics to the sediment depositing on the reefs and has also suggested by recruitment starting soon after the mortality event, could be a the highest cover of Palythoa caribaeorum, which is a strong competitor for further strategy to face climatic change. The present situation in the Maldives space."Parcel dos Abrolhos", the area farthest to the coast, presented allows for a cautious optimism about the recovery potential of the reefs. the lowest mean fecundity (141,6 ± 126,9[s.d.]) per cm2 . The lowest fecundity However, the expected increased frequency of thermal anomalies that may lead to bleaching, introduces a major risk. Long term monitoring of Maldivian coral rate was observed in the site that has the largest colonies and cover of M. communities remains the only means to understand their future evolution. braziliensis.

365 10th ICRS Reproduction and Recruitment of Corals Poster 1-2

Recruitment of Scleractinian Corals at Mayotte (Indian Ocean) Coral Recruits to Settlement Plates in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Dhahabia CHANFI* Matthew J DUNLAP*, Jean KENYON chemin de la batterie des Lions,130007 Marseille France, Metropolitan 1125B Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814, USA [email protected] [email protected]

Coral recruitment at Mayotte, Indian Ocean was studied on a fringing reef, an A key aspect of marine reserve design is establishing estimates of when, where, inner reef, a pass and a barrier reef at 6m, 12m and 20m depth. The recruits and how many recruits enter the system. At French Frigate Shoals, Maro Reef, were collected from terracota tiles which were directly attached to the substrata Lisianski Island, Pearl and Hermes, Midway, and Kure Atolls, NOAA installed by permanent stainless steel base plates (Mundy, 2000). Tiles were collected an array of oceanographic buoys to measure sea surface temperature and other every 3 months between February 2001 and October 2003. Results show a high parameters important to coral reef health. In fall 2001, settlement plates were periodicity with a seasonal peak of recruitment during the warm season (in attached to the base of these moorings to assess larval recruitment, and to February), with 80% of the total annual recruitment occurring during this enable coupling of biological data with physical data collected by the buoys. season.The highest interannual variation was observed on the barrier reef and One year after deployment, a mass bleaching event affected the northerly reefs the fringing reef. Significant differences between rates of recruitment were during the latter 2 months of the plate deployments. After settlement plates exhibited between sites; the maximum rate of recruitment occurred in the pass were collected and replaced, all organisms present on the collected plates were and the minimum on the fringing reef. The rate of recruitment decreases with counted and measured.Coral recruits were present at all locations, but Maro had depth at all sites. The most abundant family settling was the pocilloporids, the highest density (270 recruits/m2/year versus the next highest at Kure of 43) followed by the acroporids with the under surface of the tiles being favoured at and a larger mean coral diameter (2.67 mm versus the next largest at Lisianski 6m, 12m depth and the upper surface at 20m depth. of 2.05) than other plates. The recruitment rate at Maro is the highest rate recorded in Hawaii, but smaller than for studies in Jamaica and the Great Barrier Reef. Recruits were from the families Acroporidae, Pocilloporidae, and Poritidae. Lowest coral settlement occurred at Midway (7 recruits/m2/year), followed by Pearl and Hermes (18 recruits/m2/year). Coral recruits were more abundant on the undersides (horizontal) and insides (vertical) of plates at 5 of the 6 locations.Annual collections of these plates will address whether the 2002 recruitment numbers at these sites are typical. Since the corals counted on the 2002 plates likely settled before the bleaching event, will recruitment be different at Midway one year after the bleaching event than it was before bleaching? Specific information on recruitment dynamics is an important component of the management of remote coral reef ecosystems.

Annual Variation in Reproduction of Colonies of the Hawaiian Spatial Variation in Scleractinian Coral Settlement on Artificial Substrates Scleractinian, Montipora capitata in the Dry Tortugas, Florida Evelyn F COX* Nicole D FOGARTY*, Gregory A PINIAK, Christine M ADDISON, Don FIELD P.O. Box 1346, Kaneohe, HI 96744 United States of America Pivers Island Road, Beaufort, NC 28516 United States of America [email protected] [email protected]

Montipora capitata is a broadcast spawner, releasing egg/sperm bundles on Settlement patterns of scleractinian corals on artificial substrates were evenings following the new moons of summer in Hawaii. Colonies of investigated at six sites ranging from 16-18 m in the Dry Tortugas, Florida. Montipora capitata were maintained for four years in a common garden, and Two sites were located in Dry Tortugas National Park, one site in Tortugas reproductive output was assessed non-invasively each year. Gametes were Ecological Reserve, and three sites outside the park and reserve boundaries. collected during spawning periods and dried. First spawning activity was Two sets of five settlement arrays were deployed at each site in July 2002; each delayed when the new moon occurred early in June, possibly tracking annual array consisted of two vertical and two horizontal terra cotta plates with varying cycles of water temperature. On average, 85% of the reproductive output surfaces. After eleven months, the plates were collected, photographed, occurred on a single evening, although colonies typically spawned over several bleached, and examined for settled corallites with a dissecting microscope. nights and sometimes over multiple months. Individual colonies generally Corals were identified to genus; Diploria spp., Agarica spp. and Porties spp. showed the same pattern year to year. Only some of the variability in were the dominant settlers at all sites. Settlement was highly variable by reproductive output among colonies could be assigned to the effects of location on substrate (61.3% grooved surface, 34.3% smooth surface, 4.4% individual size, however, large changes in size from one year to the next were sides), but did not differ with tile orientation (58.1% horizontal tiles and 41.9% usually followed by reduced reproductive output in the second year. on vertical tiles). The density of the 160 coral settlers was highly variable among sites (ranging from 4.1 to 46.9 m-2). Overall density of coral recruits was 15.4 m-2, with the highest density located at a site outside the northern boundary of Dry Tortugas National Park, while the southern sites had the least settlement. Settlement rates and spat identification are important information for coral reef conservation, monitoring and restoration efforts.

366 Poster 1-2 Reproduction and Recruitment of Corals 10th ICRS

Sexual Reproduction of the Solitary Coral Leptopsammia pruvoti Solitary Corals of the Genus Fungia Can Fuse with Clonemates in the (Scleractinia, Dendrophylliidae) in the Mediterranean Early Phase of Regeneration Stefano GOFFREDO*, Josipa RADETIC, Valentina AIRI, Francesco Michio HIDAKA*, Noriko KOBAYASHI, Wakako OSHIRO ZACCANTI Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0213, Japan Via F. Selmi 3, I-40126 Bologna, Italy [email protected] [email protected] Most scleractinian corals are colonial, while most Fungia species are solitary. Leptopsammia pruvoti is a common azooxanthellate coral living in the In colonial corals, clonemates always fuse if they are brought into contact, Mediterranean Sea and along the Atlantic coast from Portugal to southwestern while in solitary corals, two individuals generally do not fuse even if they are of England. It lives in shaded habitats from shallow water to a depth of more clonemates. It is important to know when colonial or solitary character develops than 100 meters. The annual cycle of sexual reproduction in this species is during the course of development for understanding the underlying mechanism studied in an area nearby Leghorn (Tuscany, Italy). L. pruvoti is a gonochoric of the difference between the colonial and solitary forms. In this study we tried and brooder. Testes require 1 yr to reach maturity with a maximum spermary to study when solitary corals belonging to Fungia develop solitary character diameter of 340 µ. Oogenesis lasts 2 yr with a maximum diameter of 680 µ. and lose the capacity to fuse with clonemates during the regeneration process. The rate of gonadic development increases significantly during December and Planula-like tissue balls were formed from dissociated cells or tissue fragments. January, fertilization takes place from February to May and planulation in June. When two tissue balls derived from the same individual were brought into Embryos have a maximum diameter of 740 µ in the first stages (periblastula), contact, they fused. When individuals of Fungia sp. were broken into pieces, and 860 µ in mature gastrula. Released larvae have a maximum diameter of residual tissue on skeletal fragments shrank to form tissue islands. If two such 1000 µ. The annual cycle of photoperiod and water temperature seems to tissue islands were brought into contact, they fused and formed a single polyp. coincide with the reproductive cycle. Different sex allocation has been detected Residual tissue on skeletal fragments usually developed into a new polyp, but between males and females of L. pruvoti. Volume occupied by male gonads has sometimes more than one polyp developed from a tissue fragment, resulting in been found to be 4 times bigger than volume occupied by female gonads. In the a colonial form. They remained to be colonial or as polyps with multiple self-fertilizing hermaphrodite Balanophyllia europaea, a close relative species mouths surrounded by a single tentacular ring for several months. When two studied in the same area, male and female gonads occupied the same volume. newly regenerated polyps derived from the same individual were brought into According to sex-allocation theory, a self-fertilizing species require a smaller contact, they fused and formed a polyp with two mouths. The present male allocation than the cross-fertilizing species, in order to guarantee observation suggests that, in the early phase of regeneration, Fungia corals do successful reproduction. not show characteristics of solitary animals but can fuse with clonemates. In some fused polyps, two mouths were very close to each other and appeared to be in the process of fusion. Polyps with multiple mouths might become solitary probably through fusion of mouths instead of separation of constituent polyps.

Reproduction of Diploastrea heliopora (Scleractinia, Faviidae) in Singapore Spawning Patters and Larval Dispersal in Ogasawara Archipelago, Japan James R GUEST* Makoto INABA*, Masato KOBAYASHI, Kazuo HORIKOSHI 14 Science Drive 4, Blk S2, NUS, 117543 Republic of Singapore Miyanohama-michi, Chichi-jima, Ogasawara, 100-2101 Tokyo Japan [email protected] [email protected] Ogasawara Archipelago, composed a series of oceanic islands, is located at Diploastrea heliopora (Scleractinia, Faviidae) (Lamarck 1816) is an important 1000km south from Tokyo. Although about 200 species of hermatypic corals reef building species throughout the Indo-Pacific. Colonies are often very are reported in this region, the ecological aspects of corals are poorly known. In resilient to stress, and individuals can be extremely long lived. Despite its this study, we investigated the spawning patterns of corals at Chichi-jima relative importance as a reef builder, little is known about the reproductive Islands in 1998-2003, by underwater observation and the appearance of slick. biology of this species. Previous reports indicated that D. heliopora is a We recognized the spawning of about 50 species of corals and two spawning gonochoric broadcast spawner. This reproductive strategy is unusual, as most periods; 1)late June to early July period- four staghorn Acropora species, such other members of the family Faviidae are simultaneous hermaphrodites. I as A. formosa, and 2)mid August to early September period-other several investigated the gametogenic cycle of D. heliopora in Singapore. Five species. The spawnings of former species occurred at several neap tide period individual colonies were sequentially sampled over a period of 14 months from as a divided spawning pattern. Late species spawning also synchronized at a March 2001 until April 2002 around the islands south of mainland Singapore. neap tide period, however the spawning patterns varied. The slick in Haha-jima Based on the disappearance of gonads, spawning probably occurs in April and island and Muko-jima Islands were observed at the same timing as Chichi-jima May, although no in situ spawning observations were made. Interestingly, Island. It is known that coral spawnings general occur at the spring tide period, individual polyps were either male or female, however, four of the sampled however in Ogasawara Archipelago, all coral spawnings observed occurred at colonies appeared to be hermaphroditic at the colony level (i.e. monoecious). the neap tide period. To investigate the relationship between the tidal levels and Only one of the sampled colonies contained only male gametes throughout the larval dispersal, we conducted the drift card experiments. We release the cards study period. The apparently hermaphroditic colonies had a sequential pattern in beach at night,the neap and spring tide and collected the cards from the next with oogenesis beginning between June and August, and spermatogenesis morning to a week.The drift cards spreaded to a wide range, from Haha-jima beginning in February or March. Island to Muko-jima Islands. The number of the drift cards peaked at the next day from release, and extremely decreased later. The difference of number of cards collected at between the neap and spring tide is no significant.The results reveals that the reproductive patterns of corals in Ogasawara Archipelago are different from other regions, and the unique traits are specific character on the Ogasawara coral ecology.

367 10th ICRS Reproduction and Recruitment of Corals Poster 1-2

Diurnal Periodicity of Larval Release by Five Brooding Scleractinian Recovery of Coral Community in a Nature Reserve of Southern Taiwan, Corals in Southern Taiwan Two Years after a Ship Grounding Ke-Han LIN*, Lee-Shing FANG, Keryea SOONG, Tung-Yung FAN Pi-Jen LIU*, Lee-Shing FANG, Tung-Yung FAN 2 Houwan Road, Checheng, Pingtung 944 Taiwan 2 Houwan Road, Checheng, Pingtung 944 Taiwan [email protected] [email protected]

Diurnal patterns of larval release by five brooding corals Seriatopora hystrix, The bulk carrier Amorgos grounded on coral reefs of Lungken Nature Reserve, Stylophora pistillata, Pocillopora damicornis, Euphyllia glabrescens and Kenting National Park in southern Taiwan on 14 January 2001. Coral coverage Tubastraea aurea in southern Taiwan were investigated. S. hystrix, S. pistillata of some areas had been denuded as a result of the mechanical abrasion during and P. damicornis were collected at Hobihu, while E. glabrescens and T. aurea typhoon period. The recovery process of coral community at the damaged site were collected at the Inlet of the Third Nuclear Power Plant. Corals were was monitored by 3 permanent 1x1m quadrates on denuded natural substrata at maintained in outdoor, flow-through systems to quantify hourly release of a depth of 6 to 12 m. The number of corals was 0-2 colonies m-2 in 2001 and larvae. Planulation of all three pocilloporids revealed a well defined diurnal 2002. A total of 94 juvenile corals were found in 2003. The mean density of pattern. Most of planulae were released from 4:00 A.M. to 6:00 A.M. Larvae of corals was 31.7 m-2 with a range of 27-35 colonies m-2. The mean cover of E. glabrescens were released throughout the day, with two peaks occurring recruited colonies was 3.0 cm-2. The family Faviidae accounted for 55.3% of all from 3:00 A.M. to 4:00 A.M. and from 8:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. Planulation of recruited colonies, followed by the family Poritidae and the blue octocoral the azooxanthellate coral T. aurea occurred throughout the day with no diurnal Heliopora coerulea amounted to 13.8 and 3.2%, respectively. Recruited periodicity. Most planulae of these species, except T. aurea, were released in colonies of other corals such as pocilloporids and acroporids were few. The the early morning suggests that this period of time is advantage for larval families Faviidae and Poritidae as well as H. coerulea were common at nearby survival. undamaged site. The recruitment pattern of Lungken was different from other sites in southern Taiwan where recruitments usually were dominated by pocilloporids. It suggests that recruitment was influenced by nearby coral community at Lungken. The success of recolonization improves the recovery of corals at the shallow water site damaged by the ship grounding.

Reproductive Strategy of the Brazilian Reef Coral Siderastrea stellata Ultrastructure of the Planula Cilia from Several Species of Corals within Six Populations through a Latitudinal Gradient Yoshikatsu NAKANO*, Masako HARA, Toshiki WATANABE Monica M LINS DE BARROS, Debora O PIRES* 3422 Sesoko, Motobu-cho, Okinawa 905-0227 Japan Museu Nacional, Departamento de Invertebrados, Quinta da Boa Vista, 20940- [email protected] 040, Sao Cristovao, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil Federative Republic of Brazil Within the mechanisms of settlement by planula larvae of corals, especially the [email protected] role of chemical inducers is well studied. However, few studies mention the role of nematocyst or mucus release, and cilia as a physical sensor for Reproductive characteristics and strategies of the Brazilian reef coral settlement. Still less is the availability of functional morphological information Siderastrea stellata were studied within six equidistant populations located about settling coral planula. We have observed ultrastructure of cilia of the along the geographical distribution of the species and through a latitudinal gradient of 20o. Ten colonies from each population were collected in the peak planula from Acropora digitifera, Oulastrea crispate, Favites chinensis, of the reproductive cycle to determine the fecundity. The collections were Goniastrea aspera, Psudosiderastrea tayamai, Stylophora pistillata and simultaneously, allowing the analyze of the reproductive cycle at the same time Pocillopora damicornis by scanning electron microscopy. The planula was in all populations. In all populations, the species was gonochoric and brooder, cultured in aquariums after spawning/releasing and prepared for microscopy with a deviated sex ratio to female colonies. The pattern of surface sea each day.We identified a standard straight shape cilium (St-cilium), and a temperature variation is similar among the six sites studied. The planulation uniquely shaped cilium with a spatula like tip (Sp-cilium) of the planula. St- season occurred with an increase of sea temperature, occurring during the cilia were observed on the surface of the planula of A. digitifera, O. crispate, F. summer in all populations. The reproductive peak, stage of the reproductive chinensis, and G. aspera. Sp-cilia were observed on surface of the planula of S. cycle with a high percentage of mature oocytes, was similar in all populations, pistillata, P. damicornis, P. tayamai and the front face (settlement side) of the but one, a site influenced by an upwelling event during the summer. In this mature planula of A. digitifera. St-cilia were decrease on surface of the population, the reproductive peak was earlier, probably to avoid the effects of metamorphosed planula of A. digitifera. S. pistillata and P. damicornis are low temperatures on planulae development. The fecundity varied among the brooders, and P. tayamai is a surface brooder (Nakano unpublished data). On other five populations, forming two groups (of low and intermediate fecundity) the other hand, A. digitifera, O. crispate, F. chinensis and G. aspera are separated from one population, with the highest fecundity. Polyp volume and spawners. We suggest that St-cilium is used for swimming and Sp-cilium is colony size could be the factors causing the difference between the latter used for settlement. population and the others, while the differences on fecundity between the two other groups may be a consequence of demographic parameters. The lowest fecundity was observed in reef sites, where the density and number of reproductive colonies are larger than in rock shore sites, with higher fecundity. There could be an adjustment between the number of reproductive colonies and the number of gametes produced per colony in the populations and, despite of the difference on fecundity between rock shore and reef sites, the success of the reproduction, recruitment, might be almost the same.

368 Poster 1-2 Reproduction and Recruitment of Corals 10th ICRS

Population Genetics and Larval Ecology of Scleractinian Corals in the Reproductive Period and Spawning Synchronicity of Scleractinian Corals Ryukyu Archipelago in Palau Akira NISHIKAWA*, Kazuhiko SAKAI Lolita K PENLAND, David IDIP, Kloulechad JIM* 3422 Sesoko, Motobu, Okinawa Japan P.O. Box 7086, Koror, Palau [email protected] [email protected]

One of the central questions in marine ecology is the degree of dispersal of The reproductive timing of broadcast spawning (scleractinian) corals has been propagules of marine organisms. In particular, scleractinian corals are benthic studied in Palau since May 2002. Surveys were conducted on 7 consecutive invertebrates, therefore dispersal of early life stages is a critical aspect of their evenings after full moon for each month. Data were documented on the lunar population dynamics. However, planula dispersal is among the most difficult of periodicity, the timing of spawning, and sex determination for over 70 coral problems to study empirically in the sea because of the impractically of direct species. Synchronous spawning was observed twice a year for numerous observation on the larval stages. There are some studies of indirect estimates for species. These mass spawning events were split over several months. The first coral dispersal by studying planula behavior and population genetics. Coral event began in February and peaked in April/May and the second event began planula may display many important characteristics for dispersal (i.e. longevity, in September and peaked in November/December. Spawning of 10 species of settlement competency periods, position in water column, response to light Montipora occurred in March and September followed by mass spawning intensity or chemical signal). To address questions of the influence of planula involving 21 genera in April/May, and 16 of the same genera spawned again in characteristics for genetic differentiation among local populations, we November/December. The spawning patterns, throughout the course of the conducted laboratory experiment for planula ecology and allozyme evenings, remained consistent for the two mass spawning seasons. electrophoresis for genetic differentiation among populations in at least four species (Acropora tenuis, Acropora digitifera, Goniastrea aspera and Stylophora pistillata) in the Ryukyu Archipelago, Okinawa. We focused only on larvae longevity (survival rates) and settlement competency periods (settlement rates) in planula characteristics. We will provide information of relationship between larval ecology and genetic differentiation among local populations in the Ryukyu Archipelago.

Sexual Reproduction of a Soft Coral Cladiella tuberosa Tixier-Durivault Reproduction in Aquarium Corals (Cnidaria : Anthozoa : Alcyonacea) on Coral Communities in the Inner Eric BORNEMAN* and the Eastern Gulf of Thailand Department of Biology, Science and Research Bldg II, 4800 Calhoun Rd., Parnhathai NOBCHINWONG*, Thamasak YEEMIN Houston, TX 77204 United States of America Department of Science, Faculty of General Education, Rajamangala Institute of [email protected] Technology, Bangkok Technical Campus, Bangkok 10120 Kingdom of Many advances have allowed the majority of scleractinian corals and octocorals Thailand to be maintained with great success and rapid growth in closed system aquaria. [email protected] However, sexual reproduction remains a sporadic and unpredictable event. New The alcyonacean is a very important member of coral communities in the Gulf methods and increasing numbers of reports have both contributed to more of Thailand. Sexual reproduction of a soft coral, Cladiella tuberosa Tixier- regular observations of reproduction events in aquaria in recent years. Unusual Durivault, has been studied in coral communities of Khang Khao Island, and unreported modes of asexual reproduction have been documented, Chonburi Province, in the Inner Gulf of Thailand and Samet Island, Rayong including a recently described coral polyp extrusion that is common in, but not Province, in the Eastern Gulf of Thailand since September 1998. Monthly limited, to the family Faviidae. Other forms of unreported asexual reproduction sampling of tagged colonies and microtechnique analysis of histological are the formation of acanthauli-like buds on several species in the family samples in the laboratory were carried out. C. tuberosa was a gonochoric Mussidae and polyp bailouts in coral species outside the previously reported species, whose male and female colonies were separated. Several family Pocilloporidae. In addition, observation of sexual reproduction include developmental stages of oocytes were found in each sampling period. Mature variations of life history traits other than those established in prior reports and oocytes of C. tuberosa were 500-625 μm in diameter. Fecundity greatly varied polyp tentacle egg storage in Euphyliids. The increasing numbers of aquarists in each polyp. Spermatocytes began to develop near the spawning period which observing reproduction events in aquaria coupled with the continual occurred in July-September. The severe coral bleaching phenomenon in the observation of species possible in closed system is allowing for a greater Gulf of Thailand during April-May 1998 interrupted gametogenesis of C. understanding of the diversity of reproductive methods in reef corals. tuberosa for several months. Moreover, partial mortality of several colonies was obviously recorded. Recovery patterns of gonadal development of the soft corals from the two study sites were outstandingly different due to certain environmental factors, such as turbidity, sedimentation rate and population structures.

369 10th ICRS Reproduction and Recruitment of Corals Poster 1-2

Intra-annual Coral Recruitment Variation on Artificial Substrata in Settlement Preferences and Post-settlement Mortality of Laboratory Caribbean Shallow Patch Coral Reefs Cultured and Settled Larvae of the Caribbean Hermatypic Coral Miguel A RUIZ-ZARATE*, Jesus E ARIAS-GONZALEZ Montastraea faveolata in the Florida Keys, USA Carretera Antigua a Progreso Km. 6, A.P. 73 “Cordemex”, Merida, Yuc. Alina M SZMANT*, Margaret W MILLER Mexico. C.P. 97310 United Mexican States CMS, 5600 Marvin K. Moss Lane, Wilmington NC 28409 United States of [email protected] America [email protected] The coral larvae settlement activity was assessed in a shallow patch reefs environment using artificial substrata. Several objectives were addressed as to The broadcast spawning massive coral, Montastraea faveolata, is one of the evaluate the suitability of carbonate and terracotta tiles, taking into account the most important hermatypes in the Caribbean. It is common as large colonies up type of surface exposure (superior, inferior and lateral), the variation of to several meters high, but infrequently found as a young recruit. This species recruitment based on different samplings periods (within one year) and the has suffered major tissue loss and mortality in recent decades due to bleaching relationship of coral recruitment variation with temperature and re-suspended and disease. Thus, it is important to understand processes that will affect sediment load. The recorded recruits’ community structure was 71 % Porites population recovery, especially sexual recruitment. Gametes bundles were spp., 7 % Siderastrea spp., 7 % Agariciidae, 5 % Astrocoeniidae and 3 % collected during annual mass spawnings, and larvae raised in the laboratory to Faviidae and 8 % of the recruits were classified as unknown. According to coral early competency (ca. 60 hours). Batches of larvae were given naturally aged recruits communities related to artificial substrata found at other localities in limestone plates on which to settle, and settlement patterns mapped onto data the Caribbean the Genus Porites was dominant. Recruits’ density and size were grids within one to two weeks after settlement. The plates were attached to similar between terracotta and carbonate tiles, indicative of their suitability for natural reef substrate on two reefs offshore of Key Largo FL, and resurveyed assess coral recruitment. Posterior and lateral surfaces showed higher and monthly for up to 3 months. Newly settled spat (ca. 0.4 to 0.5 mm in diameter) significantly different recruits density than anterior surface. On the other hand, are difficult to observe without a microscope. Larvae preferred to settle on the anterior and lateral surfaces had largest and significantly different recruits sizes underside-conditioned surfaces of plates regardless of plate orientation in the than posterior surface. These differences denote the active selection of laboratory during settlement (i.e. they settled on “under-surfaces” even when substratum in colonization by larvae and faster growth on upper surfaces, these were oriented upwards towards light), demonstrating a strong settlement respectively. From five exposure times (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 months), the five attraction to fouling organisms typical of cryptic reef surfaces. Some (ca. 25 months exposure time showed the highest density and the smallest recruits size %) settled directly on crustose coralline red algae (CCA) but most settled 1 cm significantly different than the rest of exposure times. These differences were or more away from CCA. Settlement was statistically aggregated, indicating related to a maximum recruitment from Porites and other coral recruits taxa. either that newly settled larvae attract others to settle near them, or that there The results obtained were related to the reproductive characteristics of the coral are substrate micro-patches with strong settlement induction ability. Field species apparently associated to the recorded recruits. Also the maximum coral survivorship was low: 25 % after 1 month and 0 to 2 % after 3 months, lower recruitment was related to the coldest months, consequently minimum and than that of brooding species treated in a similar method. If such survivorship mean temperature were inversely related to recruits density and positively rates are typical, it will take very high densities of settlement for there to be any related to mean recruits size but these relationships were not significant. hope of long-term recruitment success.

Genetic Variation within and between Populations of the Caribbean Coral Early Life History Processes in Caribbean Corals Porites furcata in Panama. A Preliminary Study Mark J A VERMEIJ* Carmen M SCHLOEDER, Hector M GUZMAN* Southeast Fisheries Science Center, 75 Virginia Beach Drive, FL33149 Miami Unit 0948, APO AA 34002, USA Republic of Panama United States of America [email protected] [email protected]

Reef communities in the Caribbean contain a variety of reef-building coral In many studies coral planulae are considered as particles whose dispersal and species. Shallow reef areas in Bocas del Toro, Panama, are dominated by survival is largely determined by environmental factors. In addition most Porites furcata, a fast growing, branching coral species and main reef builder in information on coral population dynamics after planulae settled is based on the Caribbean. The genetic structure of a coral population reflects the relative individuals that measure between 2-4cm2, a size that is often assumed as being contributions of sexual and clonal reproductive strategies, asexual propagation representative of the earliest stages of coral population dynamics. By studying usually leads to a high local abundance of only one genotype. It is the earliest life stages of three Caribbean coral species we aim to determine hypothesized, that the single individuals in these populations in Bocas del Toro whether the assumptions above are justified, i.e. reveal the processes that are mainly clones as a result of fragmentation, which is even more pronounced mostly affect survival and population dynamics of planulae between in areas with high anthropogenic activities. To give an insight in the genetic fertilization and successful recruitment. We found evidence for (1) the relation variation and the ecology of P. furcata populations in Bocas del Toro and between colonization success and preceding history of a planula in the strategies in terms of larval dispersal, coral samples were analyzed for plankton, (2) high occurrence of chimera formation during the earliest stages of genotypes with amplified fragment-length polymorphisms (AFLPs). For a settlement, (3) limited mobility (<2cm) of single polyps early after settlement, preliminary study, five branches of P. furcata each were sampled at two (4) up to 80% of newly observed juveniles (<0.2cm2) can result from different reefs in Bocas del Toro and at one reef site in Colon. Seven different fragmentation rather than settlement, (5) all aspects of clonal growth are primer combinations were tested for all individuals for the determination of observed in individuals smaller than 2cm2 and that (5) the number of settlers in polymorphic loci. A high variability of genotypes was found within and a location depends on species dispersal characteristics, habitat characteristics between reef sites. The next step in this study will be the determination of and adult density. These findings highlight the surprisingly dynamic nature of clones within two contaminated and two non contaminated reefs in Bocas del the earliest life stages in corals and emphasize their relevance as structuring Toro. factors in Caribbean coral populations.

370 Poster 1-2 Reproduction and Recruitment of Corals 10th ICRS

Reproductive Biology of Scleractinian Coral Acropora aspera at Panjang Island, Java Sea Munasik* Jl. Prof. Sudharto, SH Kampus Tembalang, Semarang 50275 Indonesia [email protected]

REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY OF SCLERACTINIAN CORAL Acropora aspera AT PANJANG ISLAND, JAVA SEAMunasik Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Diponegoro University, IndonesiaAbstract Reproductive biology of scleractinian coral Acropora aspera at Panjang Island, Java Sea (Central Java, Indonesia) was studied by histology and laboratory observations of coral spawning from 3 Oktober 2001 - 28 April 2002. A. aspera is an hermaphroditic spawner. Oocytes were visible in October 2001 and from January to April 2002 on histological sections, while spermatogenesis occurred from January to April 2002. During this observation period, spermatozoa first appeared in March 2002, while both mature and immature oocytes first appeared in January and were continually produced until April 2002. However, both mature oocytes and sperm were also appeared in October 2001, indicate that multiple gametogenic cycles was occurred. Gametes were spawned simultaneously on 5 April 2002 in first quarter moon. While other colonies spawned gametes on 20 April and 24 April in third quarter moon and 4 days before full moon. Spawning occurred at 2.00-23.00, 2 hours after sunset. Only several gametes that were fertilized to developed a larva. First cleavage occurred at 2-3 hour after spawning. Synchronous division occurred in the first cleavage and produced two equal blastomeres, while asynchronous division occurred after forming embryo ca. 16 cells. Reproductive plasticity in corals has been considered to occur in corals on reef flats, where physical environment is usually harsh. The present study suggested that the shallow water A. aspera show asynchronously multiple spawning events, while no sign of external fertilization was occurred. Thus, Acropora aspera may recruit successfully not by sexual reproduction but by asexual reproduction i.e. fragmentations.

371 10th ICRS Emergent Properties of Coral Reefs: Linking Local Mechanisms with Large-scale Spatial Patterns Poster 1-3

Chemical Defense Mechanisms in Hawaiian Scleractinians Natural Selection in Fluorescent Proteins from Reef Anthozoa: Pigments Daniel J BARSHIS*, Robert J TOONEN and More 2538 McCarthy Mall, Edmondson 152, Honolulu, HI 96822, United States of Maria BULINA, Juan A UGALDE, Ilya V KELMANSON, Steven F FIELD, America Joseph P BIELAWSKI, Mikhail V MATZ* [email protected] 9505 Ocean Shore Blvd, St Augustine, FL United States of America [email protected] An important method of keeping predator populations in check is the production of chemical defenses by prey. While much study has been devoted Proteins homologous to the green fluorescent protein (GFP)-like from to molluscs, gorgonians, sponges, and even seaweeds, very little is known about Aequorea victoria determine the majority of host-tissue colors in Scleractinian the defense mechanisms of the stony corals. This study investigates the corals and other reef Anthozoa; meanwhile, the ecological or physiological effectiveness of chemical defense mechanisms in Hawaiian Scleractinians. A significance of this coloration remains controversial. We studied the mechanics broad survey of these defense mechanisms in the most common reef-building of evolutionary process that created the diversity of Anthozoan GFP-like coral species in Hawaii will help to produce a better understanding of the proteins using maximum-likelihood analysis of their sequences, backed up by predator/prey interactions that help shape Hawaiian reef community structure. site-directed mutagenesis experiments. Natural selection played a key role in Standard volumes of coral tissue will be removed from the skeleton and evolution of the three main colors - cyan, green and red - and therefore this extracted in a 1:1 mixture of methanol and dichloromethane. Extracts will be diversity is adaptively significant. Moreover, we found that GFP-like proteins combined into food form using freeze-dried, powdered squid mantle, and are affected by diversifying selection that is not related to color, but rather alginic acid. Extract-containing food pellets will be assayed in laboratory reflects continuous readjustments of an intra-molecular interface between these experiments using a combination of Hawaiian reef fish. First trials will be run proteins and some unknown component. Since such type of selection is most in January with generalist fish predators in order to determine presence/absence characteristic for co-evolution scenarios, we hypothesize that GFP-like proteins of chemical deterrents. A relative palatability index will be generated to are involved in evolution of host-zooxanthellae symbiosis at the molecular compare differences among approximately 10 common Hawaiian coral species. level. We are using generalists to detect the presence of chemical deterrents as it is least likely that they will have evolved mechanisms to process secondary defensive metabolites. Comparisons between extract pellets and controls will be made using Fisher’s exact test. If significant results are found, further assays will be done using Hawaiian coral feeding butterflyfish in an effort to investigate possible adaptations to the production of defensive chemicals. All laboratory assays will be finished by March 2004, with data analyses to be completed shortly thereafter.

Isolation Modifies the Impact of Piscivores on Fish Assemblages of Small Spatial Variation and Community Structure of the Scleractinian Corals: Reefs Genus Acropora in the Gulf of Thailand Jonathan BELMAKER*, Yaron ZIV, Nadav SHASHAR Anchalee CHANKONG*, Vipoosit MANTHACHITRA POB 653, Beer- Sheva, 84105 State of Israel 339-339/3 Moo 8, Paknam, Muang District, Chumphon 86120 Kingdom of [email protected] Thailand [email protected] A positive connection is often found between fish species diversity on coral heads and their degree of isolation. I examined whether isolation creates The purpose of this study is to investigate the diversity, abundance, species differences between reefs in fish assemblages through changes in predation composition and community structure of Acropora in the Gulf of Thailand pressure. First, small artificial reefs were placed at increasing distances from a which are the dominant group within coral assemblages in the Gulf of Thailand naturally continuous reef. Species richness and density of each species situated between latitudes 6 and 14 °N and longitudes 99 and 105 °E. The 30 x increased with isolation. A similar pattern was apparent on natural coral heads. 1 m. belt transect were employed through 16 sites from 8 islands along the Gulf In both natural and artificial reefs the number of predatory fish per potential of Thailand. A total of 440 colonies belonging to 26 species were found. Kudi prey species decreased with isolation. Next, artificial reefs were relocated Island had the highest species richness (9 species). Mannai Island, Sang Island, together with all there fish inhabitants, closer to the natural reef. As a result, Sing Island and Toa Island had the second species richness (7 species). resident fish exhibited a sharp decline in numbers. The decline was density- Whereas Kudi Island, Sing Isand and Toa Island had the highest diversity i.e. dependent, such that the per-capita rate of decline was higher on reefs with 1.65, 1.51 and 1.35 respectively. Acropora digitifera , A. hyacinthus and A. higher density. Video analysis revealed that the cause of decline was the millepora were commonly found on all study sites. While A. cytherea , A. aggregative response of predators around the artificial reefs. This study shows divaricata , A. latistella , A. tenuis , A. valida and A. valenciennesi were that the impact of piscivores on resident fish is modified by isolation. The uncommonly found. The pattern of the distribution of Acropora can be divided results suggest that the high diversity of fish on small isolated reefs is enabled into 3 groups: 1) Phai Island, Mannai Island and Toa Island 2) Kudi Island and by low predation. This is one of the first demonstrations of density-dependent Mannok Island and 3) Sing Island and Sang Island. Which the first group predation in adult reef fish. This study was supported by the Israeli Ministry on dominated by A. digitifera , A. hyacinthus and A. millepora , the second group the Environment (Israel grant 1206-2), the PADI foundation and the American dominated by A. subulata and A. millepora and the third group dominated by Museum of Natural History. . A. hyacinthus and A. florida . The result of MANOVA indicated the different in habitat among location. Colony size were categoried into 5 classes: 1-10, 11- 20, 21-50, 51-100 and >100 cm., respectively. The most abundance size were size 21-50 cm. The colony abundance were found as range between 1-10 colony/90 m2. The pattern of the distribution was not correspond well with geographical location. This show the recent condition of Acropora in the Gulf of Thailand.

372 Poster 1-3 Emergent Properties of Coral Reefs: Linking Local Mechanisms with Large-scale Spatial Patterns 10th ICRS

Coral Growth Rates and Zooxanthellae Density Changes of Siderastrea Spatial Variation and Population Structure of Faviid Corals (Scleractinia: siderea (Ellis and Solander) Related to a Light Intensity Gradient due to a Faviidae) on Coral Assemblages along the Gulf of Thailand: 4 Years after Pier Shadow at Guayanilla Bay, Puerto Rico 1998 Coral Bleaching Daisy DURANT*, Ivette LABORDE, Vance VICENTE Narinratana KONGJANDTRE*, Vipoosit MANTHACHITRA PO Box 907 Isla Magueyes Marine Station Lajas Puerto Rico 00667 Pueto Rico Department of Aquatic Science, Burapha University, Chonburi 2013, Thailand. [email protected] [email protected]

Light is critical in many metabolic functions of the coral/zooxanthellae Family Faviidae is one of the dominant coral families within coral assemblages symbiotic system. Rapid development of the coastal zone and growing number in the Gulf of Thailand. This study investigated spatial patterns and size of pier structures raises concern of the impact it may have on benthic organisms frequency of faviid species. The 30 x 1.5 m belt transects were employed through shading, particularly reef corals. However, scientific research through 11 islands along the Gulf of Thailand. A total of 13,123 faviid colonies documenting the effects of shading of pier structures to phototrophic benthic were found belonging to 37 species from 24 genera. Mark Islands and Chang organisms is lacking. At Guayanilla Bay Puerto Rico, the EcoElectrica Islands had the highest species richness (33 and 30 species, respectively). Tao Liquefied Natural Gas and CoGeneration Plant was recently built, including a Islands had the lowest species richness (18 species), whereas, the other islands pier. A gradient of light intensity, due to the shadow of the pier, gave the had 20-29 species. Colony abundance and area cover of faviid corals varied perfect setting to study S. siderea ecology in terms of linear extension rates and significantly among habitats and locations. Distribution pattern on reef habitats zooxanthellae density under different light regimes. Forty coral colonies of S. could be divided into 2 types of coral abundance. 1) Colony abundance was siderea were transplanted in sets of 10 within each of 4 light treatments found on reef flat more than reef slope. 2) Colony abundance found more on established along a transect of 50m running west and perpendicular to the pier. reef slope. Alternatively, distribution pattern of faviid corals through coral Transplanted and non-transplanted control colonies were stained once with composition on the reefs could be divided into 5 groups. 1) Reefs dominated by Alizarin Red to measure linear skeletal extension rate and collected 16 months Goniastrea. 2) Reefs dominated by Favia, Favites and Platygyra. 3) Reefs where after. PAR measures were made at the four light treatment zones around Favia, Favites and Goniastrea were common. 4) Reefs dominated by midday on a weekly basis, from March 2000 to September 2001. Significant Diploastrea heliopora and 5) Reefs where less faviid corals were found. Size differences (p&It;0.001) were found among group treatments and sex for frequency of faviid species were considered from abundance and common skeletal extension rate. All treatment zones were significantly higher than species. Colony diameter were categorized into 5 classes there were 1-10 cm, under the pier zone. Significant difference in zooxanthellae density was found 11-20 cm, 21-40 cm, 41-60 cm and >60 cm, respectively. The most abundance among light treatment groups and among colonies. These results demonstrate sizes classes were the first three sizes (1-40 cm). These results showed that the the significance of light on the ecology of benthic phototropic organisms. recent population of faviid species is the remaining colonies survived after 1998 Guidelines concerning the placement, height, width, and type of construction coral bleaching phenomena in the Gulf of Thailand. for docks and piers over phototropic organisms could benefit from scientific data to address the light availability problem a priori. Consistency in the development and application of regulatory policy to address impacts of dock shading could be achieved.

Inorganic Nitrogen Cycling in Coral Reef Sediments: Implications for Relationships between Local Diversity, Biomass and Density According to Ecosystem Processes Regional and Local Factors for Pacific Ocean Reef Fishes Ron JOHNSTONE*, Klaus KOOP, Anthony LARKUM Michel KULBICKI*, Serge ANDREFOUET, Pascale CHABANET, Eric CLUA, CMS, University of Queensland, St Lucia, 4072, QLD. Australia Jocelyne FERRARIS, Rene GALZIN, Alison GREEN, Mecki KRONEN, [email protected] Pierre LABROSSE, Gerard MOUTHAM, Sauni SAMASONI, Laurent VIGLIOLA, Laurent WANTIEZ To describe the pathways of inorganic nitrogen in coral reef sediments, the B.P. A5- 98848- Noumea New Caledonia major nitrogen transformation processes were measured in the two key [email protected] sediment types in a coral reef lagoon. A mixture of stable isotope and chemical inhibition methods were used. Ammonification rates showed a seasonal In the Pacific Ocean, the density or biomass of reef fish on a given reef are difference with means of 82.7 &muM N.l-1.h-1 (very fine sand;VFS) and 46.4 correlated to the diversity observed on that reef. We investigated the variations &muM N.l-1.h-1 (coarse sand;CS) in summer, compared to 35.3 &muM N.l- in this relationship according to both regional and local factors. Regional 1.h-1 (VFS) and 26.6 &muM N.l-1.h-1 (CS) in winter. In addition, there was a factors that were tested in our analysis were the distance to the biodiversity seasonal change in the distribution of ammonification within the different center, the size of the islands, the size of the reefs, island type and latitude. We sediment types. Nitrification rates were low and also showed a seasonal chose two local factors: reef geomorphologic type and fishing level. Local difference which varied depending on sediment type. Mean rates were 83 to diversity was defined as the average number of species observed during under 256 &muM N.m-2.d-1 in winter and 29 to 340 &muM N.m-2.d-1 in summer. water visual censuses along 50-meter transects. More than 2000 transects from This accounted for between 14 and 59% of sediment ammonium incorporation. New Caledonia (3 islands), Fiji (3 islands), Tonga (3 islands), Samoa (5 Similarly, denitrification rates varied with season and sediment type with rates islands), Wallis (1 island) and French Polynesia (11 islands) were analyzed. ranging between 0.3 and 8.1 &muM N.m-2.d-1. Denitrification accounted for Data on fishing effort was obtained indirectly using fish consumption, reef area between 13 and 92% of the nitrogen passing through nitrification. Overall, and population density. The relationships between fish density (or biomass) and sediment nitrogen remineralisation was calculated to supply between 19 and local diversity were analyzed for all species lumped together or grouped into 76% of the nitrogen required by microalgae living on the sediment surface. major families (Serranidae, Acanthuridae, Scaridae, Pomacentridae, Chaetodontidae), diet categories or size class. The slope in these relationships varied little with regional factors but was strongly influenced by local factors. In particular fishing had a more significant effect on piscivores, carnivores and large species than on herbivores, plankton feeders and small fish. A first analysis on the types of fish targeted by these fisheries suggested that these statistical relationships might be used in developing indicators of fishing activity.

373 10th ICRS Emergent Properties of Coral Reefs: Linking Local Mechanisms with Large-scale Spatial Patterns Poster 1-3

Interactions between Regional and Local Factors in Determining the Local Stable Isotopes Indicate Spatial Variations in Ultimate Food Sources of Diversity of Reef Fishes in the Pacific Reef Fish Communities in New Caledonia Michel KULBICKI*, Serge ANDREFOUET, Pascale CHABANET, Eric CLUA, Michel KULBICKI*, Nicholas POLUNIN, Kovaldas BALCIAUSKAS, Nickie THOMAS Jocelyne FERRARIS, Rene GALZIN, Alison GREEN, Mecki KRONEN, B.P. A5 -Noumea New Caledonia Pierre LABROSSE, Gerard MOUTHAM, Samasoni SAUNI, [email protected] Laurent VIGLIOLA, Laurent WANTIEZ The New Caledonia reef fish community varies greatly in structure between IRD- B.P.A5 -98848- Noumea New Caledonia inshore and barrier reefs. The environment differs greatly in turbidity, and [email protected] primary and benthic production, the level of heterotrophy of the benthos There is a strong relationship linking local diversity to regional diversity in the increasing near shore. The trophic structure of reef fish assemblages varies Pacific Ocean. This relationship depends on both regional and local factors. along this gradient, but within trophic categories we did not know if there were Amongst regional factors we have investigated the distance to the biodiversity major differences in the pathways of carbon and nitrogen. To investigate the center, the latitude, the size of the islands and of their reefs and the island type. spatial variations in ultimate food source types we sampled (a) along a coast- We have selected two local factors: reef geomorphologic type and fishing level. barrier reef transect (3 reef locations over 20 km) and (b) within two bays (3 Regional diversity was extracted from a data base on the shore fishes of the locations in each, top, middle and mouth, 3 to 5 km scale). Using 13C/12C and Pacific containing 5300 taxa from 50 different localities. Local diversity was 15N/14N stable isotope data we investigated carnivores, herbivores and plankton defined as the average number of species observed during under water visual feeders, relative to plankton and algal source materials. Plankton and plankton censuses along 50 m transects.. More than 2000 transects from New Caledonia feeders were similar in δ13C across all stations, whereas in algae, herbivores (3 islands), Fiji (3 islands), Tonga (3 islands), Samoa (5 islands), Wallis (1 and carnivores, δ13C increased significantly from the barrier to inshore and island) and French Polynesia (11 islands) were analyzed. Data on fishing effort from the mouth to the top of the bays. δ15N data of algae and plankton were was obtained indirectly using fish consumption, reef area and population similar on the shore-barrier reef axis, but there were significant differences density. The analyses show that regional factors play a major role in setting the within bays. All fish trophic categories increased in δ15N from the barrier to level of local diversity. However, reef type and fishing level are also the top of the bays, carnivores having the highest values and herbivores the significant, their role being usually less important than regional factors. lowest δ15N. Plots of δ15N vs δ13C indicated that reef fish within bays had Although commercial species were the most sensitive to fishing, we found that very different ultimate food sources than fish outside; plankton appeared to be non commercial species could also be affected by fishing beyond a certain level more important in bays than in the open lagoon, and within the lagoon it was of effort. more important nearshore than on the barrier reef.

New Insights on the Role of Regional Factors in the Geographical An Invasive Padina on a Bleached Coral Site in the Andaman Sea Distribution of Reef Fish Diversity across the Pacific Ocean Larry B LIDDLE*, Niphon PHONGSUWAN Michel KULBICKI*, Serge ANDREFOUET, Eric CLUA, Rene GALZIN, Alison Southampton College of Long Island University, Southampton, NY 11968 GREEN, Pierre LABROSSE, Gerard MOU THAM, Samasoni SAUNI, Laurent USA VIGLIOLA, Laurent WANTIEZ [email protected] IRD- B.P. A5 - 98848 - Noumea New Caledonia In 1997 Phongsuwan et al documented a massive overgrowth of Padina on a [email protected] bleached coral site in the Surin Islands in the Andaman Sea. The bleaching at The diversity of reef fish follows strong gradients in the Pacific. The data from this site was observed as early as 1991. This Padina population has maintained 50 localities are used to investigate the relationship between reef fish diversity itself in varying but profuse amounts until the present time. Therefore, and regional factors such as distance to the biodiversity center, island size, although it is a native genus, Padina has behaved invasively at this site. In an island type and size of available reefs. These data were compiled from attempt to understand the invasive success of Padina we have compared the checklists and the most recent revisions of families and genera yielding a total reproductive patterns of this population with those of non-reef -associated of over 5300 taxa of shore fishes amongst which nearly 3000 can be associated populations from around Phuket Island, also in the Andaman Sea. There are no to reefs to some degree. Island and reef parameters were derived from remote other reports in the literature of Padina as invasive alga. Patterns of sexual and sensing data collection and processed in a homogeneous fashion for each reef asexual stages from the Surin bleached coral site differ from those of formations of the Pacific Ocean. Preliminary investigations indicate that strong populations from Phuket Island. Also, besides the fan-shaped foliose gradients of fish sizes and diets are explained by these regional factors, which morphology, Padina maintains a basal phase, more creeping in habit, from however play a different role according to the family or genus. In particular we which numerous growing points emerge acting as a vegetative propagule. The show that the relative importance (percentage of the total local diversity) of invasive success of Padina populations can in part be attributed to this families or genera is not necessarily constant across the Pacific as suggested by vegetative reproduction. This phase is less subject to wave action and, being in previous studies. A preliminary investigation on the geographical distribution of the interstices of the coral rock, is also less available to grazers. Any removal fish sizes and diets indicate that there are strong gradients related to these experiments designed to assess the impact of Padina on bleached coral regional factors. recuperation, have to take this phase into consideration because, as a remnant of the massive population it can regrow readily without sexual reproduction or asexual spore germination.

374 Poster 1-3 10th ICRS

Probability Modelling Using Coral-Reef Sediments, an Example from Maximizing Predictability by Minimizing Variance in Coral Reef Ecology: Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia A Search across Scales Justin H PARKER* Stuart A SANDIN* 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, Perth, Western Australia 6009 Australia Dept. of EEB/Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544-1003 United [email protected] States of America [email protected] Sediment deposited in coral-reef environments is either transported from terrestrial sources near the reef or generated onsite by carbonate producing In situ studies of coral reef organisms consistently demonstrate that seemingly organisms living on and around the reef. The in situ biogenic component is a random variability is the norm, not the exception, to population dynamics. For direct reflection of the living organisms and the variety of habitats that field studies, selecting the appropriate scales for analysis can minimize the comprise the coral-reef environment. The objective of this study is to develop a observed variability, thereby maximizing the power of the study. Using simple model using the sedimentological characteristics of a small sample of coral-reef models of population dynamics, we can predict how the inherent variability of a sand to predict the adjacent habitats, and probable organisms living in these population will be expected to change across scales. I will present the results of habitats. a series of modeling and field studies that consider scaling of temporal variance Samples were collected from selected areas of a reef system, based on geo- in reef populations. Observed population variability is determined by the referenced systematic grid patterns. These samples were analysed for their relative effects of mechanisms introducing stochasticity (e.g., recruitment sedimentological characteristics (general and foraminiferal composition and fluctuations) and mechanisms reducing stochasticity (e.g., density dependence) grain-size frequency distributions). Aerial photography and ground truthing at the scale of analysis. Focusing on the trophic dynamics of reef fish, I were used to separately develop geo-referenced habitat maps of the selected compare study results across organizational levels (i.e., functional guilds vs. areas. Finally probability maps were generated for each of the areas using a GIS single species) and across spatial scales. Variability changes noticeably across (Geographical Information System) showing how the sediment characteristics each scale range, demonstrating that appropriate selection of scale drastically relate to habitat predictions. alters the power, and thus the conclusions, of observational studies. Data are presented here for the back-reef lagoon of the Ningaloo Reef Tract, a fringing-barrier reef located on the north-west Australian coastline between latitudes of 21°30’and 24° South. Significant foraminifera (those > 5% abundance) and foraminiferal associations are shown to be the most reliable habitat indicators for Holocene environments in the region. This type of study is useful for present day habitat assessment and for modelling ancient reef environments in sedimentary basins.

Epifaunal Community Associated with Caulerpa and Laurencia at Owen Habitats for the Damselfish Stegastes Planifrons in the Tayrona Natural Island, Little Cayman, Cayman Islands Park (Colombian Caribbean): Selectivity and Incidences Ashley REED, Vania R COELHO* Nadiezhda SANTODOMINGO-AGUILAR*, Alberto RODRIGUEZ-RAMIREZ, 50 Acacia Avenue, San Rafael, CA, USA, 94901-2298 United States of Jaime GARZON-FERREIRA America A.A. 1016 Santa Marta, Colombia [email protected] [email protected]

The morphology and secondary compounds of different types of algae may The Natural and anthropogenic factors play an important role in the degradation influence the structure of epifaunal communities in coral reefs. In this study we of reef communities. Through the National Monitoring System for the Coral analyzed the fauna associated with three species of algae. Two of them belong Reefs of Colombia (SIMAC) the effect of the Threespot Damselfish (TD), to the same genus, and likely have similar secondary compounds, but are Stegastes planifrons, was assessed. S. planifrons is one of the most conspicuous different in shape; Caulerpa sertularioides has a feather-like structure, while inhabitants of the Caribbean coral reefs which causes natural disturbance by Caulerpa cupressoides has globular branchlets and is more compact. The third removing coral polyps for its algal turfs. Many studies had indicated a negative species, Laurencia papillosa, belongs to another genus but is structurally role of damselfishes on reef-building process, but there is a few information similar to C. cupressoides. The algae samples were collected adjacent to each about the habitats, and coral species that are selected to establish their other in an area less than 1m deep and were later rinsed in freshwater for faunal territories. This research was carried out at four reef habitat types: multispecific removal. The invertebrates were retained in a sieve of 250 μm mesh size. The coral assemblages dominated by (1) Colpophyllia natans or (2) Montastraea algae samples were dried and weighed. C. cupressoides had about 2.5 times the spp; and monospecific coral stands of (3) Acropora palmata or (4) Acropora number of individuals per gram over C. sertularioides and L. papillosa. C. cervicornis. Both algal turfs incidence and coral species selectivity were sertularioides had the greatest surface area but about 10 times less individuals evaluated at each of these habitats. The incidence is expressed in terms of the per area than the other two species, which had similar surface area. C. percentage of colonies affected by the algal turfs (Ic) and the area affected (Ia). cupressoides had the least amount of volume per gram and about1.5 times the A total of 457 territories were assessed. Most of the evaluated colonies number of individuals per volume found in L. papillosa, and almost twice that (Ic=61%) were affected by algal turfs. Some algal mats were observed on sponges and gorgonians too. Reef building corals showed the lowest incidences of C. sertularioides (the latter two plant species had similar volume per gram). of Ia: Acropora palmata (6%), Montastraea faveolata (5%), and Colpophyllia Crustacean and polychaetes were the dominant groups in all samples. Some natans (2%), while the highest incidences were observed over Mycetophyllia invertebrate species preferred only one type of algae, or only the Caulerpa ferox (30%), Madracis decactis (22%), and Millepora complanata (20%). TD species, or both C. cupressoides and L. papillosa. We concluded that although selected particular microhabitats according to the availability of refuge and morphology and chemical compounds seem important in determining the morphological characteristics (skeleton densities, corallite shape, etc.) of the structure of the epifaunal community, the degree of protection offered by the coral species to be bitten. Hence, although A. palmata and A. cervicornis were plant architecture apparently has a greater impact on the abundance of selected, other hard coral species as M. complanata was also chosen. This individuals found associated with a particular species of algae. research gives new information about the role of S. planifrons like agent of natural disturbances over the structure and composition of coral reef communities.

375 10th ICRS Emergent Properties of Coral Reefs: Linking Local Mechanisms with Large-scale Spatial Patterns Poster 1-3

Using Agent-based Models to Produce Optimal Strategies for Reef A Novel Approach to Linking Reef Fish Assemblage Characteristics to Restoration by Coral Transplantation; a Comparison of the Effects of Topographic Complexity Using Species with Different Life-History Strategies Brian K WALKER* Jai C SLEEMAN*, Ben T M RADFORD, David BLAKEWAY 8000 North Ocean Drive, Dania Beach, Florida United States of America 35 Stirling Hwy., Crawley, Western Australia 6009 Australia [email protected] [email protected] Abiotic factors such as temperature, salinity, depth, current, and topographic High coral cover and topographic complexity are typical spatial qualities of a complexity and biotic factors such as competition, food availability, and healthy coral reef. When choosing coral species for reef restoration projects it is predation all play roles in determining the distribution and abundances of coral important to evaluate how differing life-history characteristics will affect the reef inhabitants. Reef fish assemblages, in particular, are affected by topographic features of the restoration area. This study utilizes agent-based geomorphology and habitat distribution. The high number of variables involved spatial modelling to explore different scenarios of reef restoration by coral in determining the spatial relationship of reef organisms complicates spatial transplantation. We explore the effects of using a number of species with prediction models. However, it may be possible to create general predictive contrasting life-histories. The influence of life-history characteristics on coral models using those factors that most influence their distributions. One of the cover and topographic complexity were measured with landscape indices. most influential factors affecting the spatial distributions of reef fish is These indices were used to compare change over a range of temporal and topographic complexity. Many studies have found positive correlations between spatial scales. For the purposes of this model, disturbance events were assumed reef fish assemblage variables and habitat structure measures. This paper to be of minor importance in the spatial structuring of coral reefs. This model presents a novel method that incorporates remote sensing technology and provides a tool to select coral species with life-histories that will maximize landscape ecology GIS tools to investigate the possibilities of linking reef fish cover and 3-dimensional habitat structure over moderate temporal (30-year assemblages to topographic complexity on a large scale. A topographic periods) and spatial (10s of kilometres) scales. The use of agent-based spatial complexity (rugosity) index is calculated from remotely sensed bathymetry data models is a relatively new technique in marine ecology and has considerable allowing the comparison of fish species distributions to areas of increased or potential for use in areas such as reef restoration ecology. decreased complexity. This index is calculated for the GPS-located fish assessment sites and correlated with the fish census data. The current study is based on data collected in Broward County, FL, USA, however, after calibrating the model to local reef fish assemblages, it could be used anywhere with high-resolution bathymetry data. This method may provide new perspectives for understanding the affect of rugosity on reef fish assemblage structure and distribution, as well as a new predictive model resource managers can use to economically estimate fish densities. Thus, this work is relevant to all coral reef resource managers worldwide interested in reef fish population censusing, mapping essential fish habitat, and understanding reef fish assemblage distributions for MPA designations.

Processes Structuring Caribbean Coral Communities in Marginal Patterns of Body Size Distribution in Tropical Eastern Pacific Reef Fishes Environments Fernando A ZAPATA*, D Ross ROBERTSON Mark J A VERMEIJ*, Pedro FRADE, Rita JACINTO, Dolfi A DEBROT, A.A. 25360, Cali Republic of Colombia Rolf P M BAK [email protected] Southeast Fisheries Science Center, 75 Virginia Beach Drive, FL33149 Miami Body size is an important attribute of organisms and its distribution among United States of America species may provide insights into ecological and evolutionary processes [email protected] structuring species assemblages. We examined patterns of body size Here we try to identify the ecological factors that structure shallow water coral distribution of the reef fishes from the tropical eastern Pacific (TEP) to help communities on Curacao, Netherlands Antilles. We focus on communities that elucidate the processes responsible for large scalevariation in assemblage developed in innerbays that are semi-connected to the well developed fringing structure. The frequency distribution of log2 maximum body lengths of all bony reefs and compare those to communities that developed on the fringing reefs reef fishes resident in the region (N =333) was bimodal and platykurtic and themselves. Our focus is to determine if community assembly (in terms of therefore not log-normal. While the size distribution of species occurring on the species presence and population structure) is primarily deterministic or whether continent was similar to that of the entire group, that of the oceanic island fauna stochastic events will eventually lead to variation in community composition was log normal. The continental group had more small species but less species across space. Several hypotheses are put forward to test the relative importance of intermediate size than the oceanic island group. Similar size distributions of various factors considered to be important for the organization of community were observed for continental species present in three different biogeographic structure: the size of the local species pool, dispersal distances of the species provinces (Cortez, Mexican and Panamic) that encompass a wide latitudinal involved, environmental variability and rates of disturbance. Recruitment, life- gradient. TEP endemics showed a log-right-skewed and bimodal size history variation (especially reproductive mode), species specific tolerance to distribution while transpacific fishes exhibited a log-normal distribution and environmental variability and environmental variation itself, all interact to were on average twice as large as species on oceanic islands of the TEP. The produce patterns in coral community structure. These patterns are predictable to size distributions on each of the oceanic islands showed a greater mean or a certain degree: a small local species pool, the absence of shared ecological median or degree of left skewness than expected from a random assemblage of strategies among species, low rates of catastrophic disturbance and dispersal species sampled from an oceanic island species pool. At least two mechanisms limitation of non-adapted species are mainly responsible for the similarity might explain this pattern: 1) reduced dispersal ability of smaller species observed among innerbay coral communities. prevents the colonization of oceanic islands, or 2) smaller species may have greater extinction rates on islands. Some evidence indicates that extent of occurrence on oceanic islands is positively correlated with body size and that maximum density decreases with increasing body size. Thisprovides support for the hypothesis that dispersal limitation may be important causing size distributions to be biased toward larger sizes on oceanic islands of the TEP.

376 Poster 1-3 10th ICRS

The Status of the Acropora palmata Populations in Los Roques National Park, Venezuela Ainhoa L ZUBILLAGA, Carolina BASTIDAS*, Aldo CROQUER Sartenejas, Caracas, Miranda Republic of Venezuela [email protected]

In this work we determined the status of Acropora palmata populations in Los Roques National Park, Venezuela. Ten 20m-long and 4m-wide belt-transects per site were evaluated in the reef front to determine the densities of recruits (<10 cm), juveniles (10-20 cm) an adults (>20 cm). The condition of each A. palmata colony was checked, specifically for disease signs, predation marks and the total number of the predator Coralliophilia spp. The density of A. palmata adults,juveniles and recruits were significantly different (p<0.01 Kruskall-Wallis test) across sites. The adult density in Cayo de Agua (1.45 SE 0.32 ind/10m2) was significantly different compared to all sites (Test of Duncan for post-hoc comparisons): Dos Mosquises (0.42 SE 0.14 ind/10m2), Carenero (0.26 SE 0.09 ind/10m2), Crasqui (0.19 SE 0.08 ind/10m2), Gran Roque (0.11 SE 0.06 ind/10m2) and Madrizqui (0.04 SE 0.03 ind/10m2). The juvenile density showed a similar trend, with Cayo de agua having the highest density (1.4 SE 0.44 ind/10m2) compared with the other sites (from 0.06 SE 0.03 to 0.80 SE 0.23 ind/10m2). The recruit density was significantly lower in Madrizqui (0.03 SE 0.02 ind/10m2, p<0.01) than in Cayo de agua (0.39 SE 0.1 ind/10m2), Dos Mosquises (0.39 SE 0.09 ind/10m2), Gran Roque (0.31 SE 0.1 ind/10m2), Carenero (0.34 SE 0.16 ind/10m2) and Crasqui (0.16 SE 0.08 ind/10m2). The incidence of white band (1-10%), signs of predation (5-20%) and density of Coralliophilia spp (0-0.19 ind/col) were variable across sites. These results suggest that populations of A. palmata are actively recovering in Cayo de agua, Dos Mosquises, Carenero and Crasqui. However, this recovery is less noticeable in other areas of Los Roques such as Madrizqui.

377 10th ICRS Diseases of Coral Reef Organisms: Evolutionary Aspects, Current Status and Prognosis Poster 1-4

Coral Disease in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Apoptosis in Diseased Reef Corals: A First Look Greta S AEBY* Eric BORNEMAN* 1151 Punchbowl St., Rm. 330, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 United States of Department of Biology, 4800 Calhoun Rd., Science and Research Bldg. II, America Houston, TX 77204 United States of America [email protected] [email protected]

Baseline information on the distribution and frequency of coral disease is The inability to find pathogens in many coral diseases, along with the critical in assessing changes in the health of coral reefs. In July 2003, baseline inconsistencies of many events causing coral mortality that are not immediately surveys were conducted at 73 sites throughout the Northwestern Hawaiian amenable to a pathogen hypothesis or to necrosis, underscores the need for Islands (NWHI) to quantify and characterize coral disease. Evidence of coral alternate explanations of coral disease and death. Cell death occurs by two disease was found at 63% of the sites across all regions with Maro, Laysan and primary pathways: necrosis and apoptosis. Apoptosis is a highly conserved, Lisianski having the highest incidence of disease. The most common disease non-inflammatory, sequentially ordered cell death program that has come under was pink spot disease caused by the digenetic trematode, Podocotyloides wide study in mammalian and nemertean system in the past decade. While stenometra, that was found at 60% of the sites. Numerous other conditions apoptosis has a role in many developmental events, immunological responses, were also observed but at much lower levels (1%-15% of the sites). Numbers and in normal senescence, it also occurs and results in many acute and chronic of colonies affected by pink spot disease were not enumerated, but other types pathologic conditions. Apoptosis can be triggered by bacteria, stress, chemicals, of conditions were counted and found to be present at low levels (avg. 0.028 hypoxia, anoxia, trauma, and various other events that set off the apoptotic diseased colonies/m2 reef surveyed). A disease outbreak at one site resulted in cascade of events. To date, the occurrence and mechanisms by which apoptosis massive tissue loss on large acroporid table corals. Disease signs similar to might occur in corals has not been well investigated.Induction of apoptosis was white plague and white band were found on some corals, but the majority of the found possible using known inducers and uncharacterized chemical signals observed disease signs/syndromes were distinct from what has been previously from apoptotic corals. Using modified molecular assays and histological exam, described for other coral reef systems. Coral genera were found to exhibit fifteen species of scleractinian corals from the families Acroporidae and differences in types of syndromes and incidence of disease. Studies are planned Pocillopidae from both the Indo-Pacific and Caribbean regions showing signs to further investigate and monitor the incidence of coral diseases in the NWHI. of white band disease and shut down reaction were found to have apoptotic cells present. This is one of the first reports of apoptosis occurring in coral tissue. The implications of apoptosis in coral disease based on these findings are discussed.

Coral Disease in a Large-scale Reef Mesocosm Pathologies Affecting Reef Corals at the Flower Garden Banks, Northwest Shelley L ANTHONY* Gulf of Mexico ReefHQ, PO Box 1379, Townsville, Queensland Australia Eric BORNEMAN* [email protected] Department of Biology, 4800 Calhoun Rd. Science and Research Bldg. II, Houston, Texas, 77204 United States of America ReefHQ Aquarium in Townsville, Australia contains a 2.5-million litre fully [email protected] functioning living reef mesocosm used for public education, coral propagation, and scientific research. Although much progress has been made recently in the The Texas Flower Garden Banks are part of a marine sanctuary encompassing areas of hard coral growth and survival, a significant percentage of acroporids the most northerly and isolated coral reefs on the North American continental and pocilloporids are lost to a little-understood syndrome known as Rapid shelf. The Flower Gardens Banks have historically had a low incidence of coral Tissue Necrosis (RTN) or Rapid Tissue Degeneration. RTN (thought to be disease. Diseases affecting the Caribbean basin were found including white synonymous with Shut-Down Reaction on natural reefs) is a rapidly plague type II, but at extremely low frequencies Several other conditions that progressing disorder, characterised by tissue sloughing away from the coral resembled known diseases (black band disease, and yellow blotch disease) were skeleton. Anecdotal evidence and previous studies of RTN occurrence are also found, although their appearance was not wholly characteristic of the conflicting, further adding to the confusion surrounding this disorder. Current pathology, and they may represent different conditions. In addition, several hypotheses include a pathogenic cause, or a reaction to stressful conditions, or a false diseases reported in previous works were confirmed to have fish biting combination of both. To investigate the underlying cause of RTN, a combined behavior as their cause, rather than being pathologic in nature. Several novel approach utilising histological, microbiological, and ecological methods has pathologic conditions were discovered at relatively high incidence levels that do been applied. New histological techniques are being used to study possible not fit the description or known etiology of any currently described coral stress reactions in coral tissues, while microbiological studies search coral disease, and included a pale ring condition, a mottled bleaching/necrosis microbial communities for a potential underlying pathogen. Ecological condition, and a spreading bleaching condition. Porites astreoides was comparisons between nearby natural reefs and the mesocosm are also providing observed with a patchy and spreading bleaching condition. A mottled condition information on environmental conditions and the occurrence of RTN. The affecting numerous colonies of Colpophyllia natans was observed at both banks, and it was responsible for significant focal and spreading signs of large-scale reef mesocosm provides several advantages to this study, including bleaching and tissue loss. Additionally, an unidentified pale ring condition was continuous monitoring of environmental parameters, relatively controlled observed in both Diploria strigosa and Colpophyllia natans A widespread conditions, and easy access to diseased coral samples. Understanding the opacity existed on a vast number of colonies of many species, especially at the nature of RTN, its cause, and how to prevent it will be of great value to aquaria East Flower Gardens Bank, and its appearance on tissue resembled affected worldwide, the coral aquaculture and commercial industry, coral propagation areas of the pale ring condition. Because of difficulties in standardizing success, and reef regeneration and restoration efforts. In addition, it may give nomenclature within the coral disease community, and until more of the better insight into the nature of some types of disease observed on natural reefs. etiology of these conditions is established, these syndromes are tentatively named pale ring syndrome, and mottling syndrome. In this report, I document levels and types of coral disease at the Flower Garden Banks, including the description of three previously unreported pathologies.

378 Poster 1-4 Diseases of Coral Reef Organisms: Evolutionary Aspects, Current Status and Prognosis 10th ICRS

Pathologies Affecting Reef Corals in Captivity Distribution of Red-Blotch Disease and Effect of Boring Sponges on Eric BORNEMAN* Solitary Corals in Tuticorin Coastal Waters of Gulf of Mannar, Southeast Department of Biology, 4800 Calhoun Rd., Science and Research Bldg II, Coast of India Houston, TX 77204 United States of America Chellaram C, Jamila PATTERSON*, Edward J K PATTERSON [email protected] 44-Beach Road, Tuticorin - 628 001, Tamil Nadu Republic of India [email protected] Historical background levels of coral diseases are largely unknown and most research focuses on epizootics and well recognized pathologies. Many of the The Gulf of Mannar (GOM), covering an area of approximately 10,500 sq. km diseases that affect corals on reefs are not known in aquariums. However, the includes a chain of 21 islands surrounded by fringing reefs and patchy reefs. aquarium provides a unique opportunity to observe and study the disease The southern part of GOM currently consists of four islands that are heavily process. Several pathologies appear to be largely confined to captive affected by pollution due to the discharge of un/partially treated effluents from conditions, or the disease process is somehow favored in closed systems. Other industries and domestic sewage. The present work was concentrated on the pathologies display the same signs as in their wild counterparts, although the monitoring of coral diseases and the effect of boring sponges on corals in situ etiology of both wild and captive conditions is incompletely understood. habitat. A survey was undertaken adopting Belt Transect (1m x 15m) method Aquarium corals are susceptible to conditions that resemble white band disease, and 60 transects were made to quantify the number of Red-band or Red-blotch red band disease, and they produce abnormal growth lesions (neoplasia). affected colonies. Accordingly, Red-band or Red-blotch disease was recorded Additionally, novel pathologies occur that have not been reported in the wild. near the port area of Tuticorin coastal waters, which was absent around the Brown jelly infections are common, and may involve a ciliate pathogen. Other islands. The study site of the Tuticorin port area was dominantly covered with organisms have been found associated with corals that produce consistent signs Turbinaria sp. and Red-band or Red-blotch disease mainly affects selective of bleaching and disease, including a tanaid amphipod associated solely with species of corals such as Turbinaria mescenterina and Turbinaria peltata. corals of the genus Acropora and a pit crab associated with numerous species, Among this, Turbinaria peltata was most susceptible to this disease. Overall but especially Catalaphyllia jardinei and Trachyphyllia geoffroyi. Rapid tissue about 15-20% of Turbinaria sp. in Tuticorin waters is affected by Red-band or necrosis, or shut-down reaction is very common in many species, but especially Red-blotch disease. Secondly, sponges destroy corals (known as boring Acroporids, and preliminary work suggests that it is an apoptotic event. sponges), which have the ability to dissolve the calcium carbonate (coral Bacteria of the genus Beggiatoa have been found associated with disease events skeletons and bivalve shells) and cause problems to the coral growth. In in numerous taxa of scleractinian corals and zoanthids. A rotting condition is Tuticorin waters, about 0.25-0.5 % of corals are affected by coral boring also common among species in the soft coral family Alyconiidae. Further sponges. Research is continuing to identify the causative microorganism for the investigations will determine if the conditions reported here are unique to Red-blotch disease. aquarium corals or if they are present in wild communities but at currently low levels of incidence.

Molecular Microbial Ecology of Coral Diseases Host Specificity between Coral-inhabiting Snail Coralliophila violacea and John C BYTHELL*, Olga PANTOS Massive Coral Porites : An Analysis of Host-searching, Host-recognition Ridley Building, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU United Kingdom of Great and Larval Preference Britain and Northern Ireland Ming-Hui CHEN*, Keryea SOONG [email protected] Checheng, Pingtung, Taiwan 944, Republic of China Taiwan [email protected] A significant constraint to the understanding of coral diseases is the identification of different diseases. Unlike higher organisms with complex Host specificity, i.e., the number of host species which a symbiont can associate tissues and organs that may be targets for different disease agents, corals have with, is an important trait to both the hosts and the symbionts. Its mechanisms tissue-level organisation and different disease signs are often difficult to are often less clear. Understanding this mechanism is important to elucidate the distinguish. While some patterns of tissue loss are distinctive, others like white interaction between these symbionts and their hosts, e.g. speciation and host- plague, patchy necrosis, white band disease and white pox are not. Different switch process of symbionts. Although many species of Coralliophila living stages of one disease may be difficult to distinguish from another and different on the surface of corals are identified, only a few species are know about their rates of lesion progression or appearance may be due to different disease biology. For example, two Caribbean species, C. abbreviata and C. caribaea are agents, the physiological and morphological features of different hosts or active predators and are found on a broad variety of scleractinians. The Indo- differences in health status. Using culture-independent molecular (16S rRNA) Pacific C. violacea, on the other hand, is only found on poritid corals. In this techniques, we have examined the bacterial diversity associated with several study, the host-searching, host-recognition behaviours of adults, the survival of patterns of tissue loss across a range of host coral species. To fully characterise adults on different corals and the larval preference were studied to illucidate the the bacterial community, the formation of clone libraries and analysis by RFLP- mechanism of host specificity in the snail C. violacea. The following results screening and sequencing has proven successful in a number of studies. are found in these studies: (1) the larvae of C. violacea prefer Porites to other However, these methods are time-consuming and expensive. In order to screen scleractinians, and (2) the adults of snails can recognize and find the host large numbers of samples we have used Denaturing Gradient Gel corals, and (3) the adult of snails only can live on the coral Porites. These Electrophoresis (DGGE). While detecting only a small subset of the total results suggest that the preference of larvae is the key factor of causing the bacterial community, we show that DGGE patterns are consistent across range of their host, the ability of recognizable and finding their original host in replicate samples from the same disease lesion and that relative diversity of adult stage also enhance this limited host rang. DGGE banding patterns are highly correlated with sequence diversity obtained from clone libraries. Patterns of similarity between DGGE profiles of different forms of tissue loss on a variety of host species are presented. Results are also compared with an experimental temperature stress treatment. The natural bacterial flora associated with different (healthy) coral species are clearly distinct and the perturbation of this natural flora is dependent on disease state and stress treatment.

379 10th ICRS Diseases of Coral Reef Organisms: Evolutionary Aspects, Current Status and Prognosis Poster 1-4

A Model of the Spatial and Temporal Dynamics of the Yellow Blotch Temporal and Spatial Variability of Stony Coral Diseases in Los Roques Syndrome and Morrocoy National Parks, Venezuela Roberto CIPRIANI*, Aldo CROQUER Aldo CROQUER*, Ernesto WEIL, David BONE A. P. 89000, Caracas 1080 Republic of Venezuela Sartenejas, Caracas, Miranda Republic of Venezuela [email protected] [email protected]

The yellow blotch syndrome is one of the most widespread coral disease in the This study goals were to compare the prevalence of common Caribbean coral Caribbean, mostly affecting species of the Monstastraea complex. It takes its diseases between an oceanic, near pristine reef system (Los Roques) and a name from the yellow-cream color of the infected polyps standing between the continental-human-affected reef system (Morrocoy) in Venezuela. Three reef dead and healthy tissue of the colony. In this paper, we develop a grid model to sites were surveyed, two in Los Roques and one in Morrocoy. Surveys were simulate the dynamics of the disease. The model is parametrically stochastic, conducted once a year (dry season), starting in 1999 and ending in 2001. For sequentially updated, and discrete in time and space. The possible states of each ach site, a total of eight, 20 x 2 m belt-transects (CARICOMP) were cell are: (a) a dead colony or empty space; (b) a colony susceptible to infection; permanently marked to ensure repetitive surveys upon the same areas. Every (c) an infected colony; and (d) an immune colony. Non-densodependent single coral colony was identified and their status (healthy, damaged or recruitment of all species occurs in empty spaces (Pr = Precr). All coral species diseased) assessed and counted to determine the prevalence of the different are subject to natural mortality, independent to disease-induced mortality (Pr = coral diseases and other damage resulting from predation or sedimentation. The number of colonies affected by each disease was compared within (depths) and Pnat). Coral colonies are hemispheres that grow at a rate Pgro. When a healthy colony is infected, the disease spreads from the top of the hemisphere to its across sites by a two-way Analysis of Variance. The variability of the prevalence of coral diseases through time (1999 - 2001) within each site was base, with a rate equal to Padv. When the entire surface of the colony has been compared by a two-way-repeated measure Analysis of Variance. During the infected, the colony dies. However, a colony may recover from the infection. surveys performed at both localities, two main epizootic trends were observed: The disease spreads from sick to healthy colonies by means of unspecified (1) diseases that were always present regardless of the site, depth or time (e.g. vectors moving between colonies, simulated by infecting at random, healthy yellow blotch, dark spots) with variable prevalence, and (2) temporal diseases susceptible colonies from a grid area around the donor, with Pr = P . We inf that suddenly appear and show high prevalence resulting in high tissue and validated the model by comparing the simulated prevalence of the disease with colony mortality for a short time period (e.g. white plague and black band). that obtained in the field, using parameter values reported in the literature and Results indicate that in all three sites, Herradura (4.31 ± 0.65% to 6.13 ± 1 %) from real colonies. Prevalence data from the model was obtained by simulating and Costanero (5.38 ± 1.34 to 6.48 ± 1.11%) reefs in Los Roques, and on it the sampling technique used in the field. With this model we tested the Sombrero in Morrocoy (4.1 ± 1.02 to 5.2 ± 1.89%), disease incidence increased effects of sampling bias of the size distribution of colonies in estimating the significantly (p < 0.01) between 1999 and 2001. Similar trends in both dynamics of the disease. geographic localities suggest that disease outbreaks might more related to changing environmental conditions like global warming than to direct human impact.

Some Aspects on the Dynamics of the Yellow Blotch Syndrome: A Grid Decline of Madracis mirabilis Population at Morrocoy National Park, Model Perspective Venezuela: The Role of Coral Diseases Aldo CROQUER*, Roberto CIPRIANI, Ernesto WEIL, David BONE Aldo CROQUER*, Ernesto WEIL, Sofia VALERO, Nora MALAVER A. P. 89000, Caracas 1080 Republic of Venezuela Sartenejas, Caracas, Miranda Republic of Venezuela [email protected] [email protected]

We develop a stochastic, time and space discrete, grid model to simulate the During the last 4 years a significant decline in live cover (from 7.58% in 1999 dynamics of the yellow blotch syndrome, one of the most widespread diseases to 3.33% in 2001) of the thin, branching coral Madracis mirabilis was observed in the Caribbean. Each cell in the model represents one possible state of a at Sombrero Key, Morrocoy National Park (10"52N-69"16W), Venezuela. simulated coral colony: (a) dead colony or empty space; (b) colonies Increasing number of colonies showing the typical signs described for white susceptible to infection; (c) infected colonies; and (d) colonies belonging to plague type II indicates that this disease might be responsible for the observed immune species. Structurally, colonies are simulated as hemispheres of decline. Three healthy and three disease colonies were collected to study the different age/size. When a healthy colony is infected, the disease spreads on the bacterial communities associated with them and to be compared with water surface of the colony, from the top to its base, with a rate equal to those mass bacterial communities. Fourteen biochemical tests (different carbon, recorded in the field. Colonies die when their entire surface is infected. nitrogen and energy sources) were performed for all strains isolated from each Spatially, the disease spreads by the effects of unspecified vectors moving sample. These strains were also plated in TCBS and Pseudomonas agar in order between nearby colonies. Comparing sequential values of disease prevalence to determine if community composition varied between healthy and disease with those obtained in the filed, validated a number of different dynamics, used tissues. The biochemical profile was compared by Chi-square tests, cluster and to test our questions. Other parameters such as recruitment, death, recovery, and a principal coordinates analyses. The biochemical profile of each bacterial growth rates were obtained from real samples and from the literature. Our community was dependent (Chi square = 9374.66 df = 41 p<0.01) on the results suggest that the yellow blotch syndrome is capable of remaining in the compartments (healthy, disease and water). The isolates collected from mucus community for long periods of time, over 3000 years in our simulations. Once of affected tissues showed a high percentage of bacteria able to degrade urea the epidemic starts in a healthy community, the main effects are the reduction (60-80%) and complex compounds such as lipids (65-85%), when compared of susceptible colonies and the increment of non-susceptibles. This process with both no-disease and water mass isolates (< 5%). The total abundance of occurs independently of the rate of recovery. In communities with old colonies, Vibrio spp significantly increased from the healthy (< 5%) to disease tissues low recruitment, and equal distribution of susceptible and non-susceptible (40%), while Pseudomonas spp. significantly decreased from healthy (39%) to colonies, the yellow blotch syndrome does not prevail. To introduce the disease disease tissues (< 5%). These results suggest that the current decline of into the community requires multiple successive infections of several colonies. Madracis mirabilis live cover at Sombrero Key might be produced by this coral Our results show how temporal and spatial interactions between coral colonies disease. Samples have been taken for verification of the presence the white may produce complex dynamics of coral diseases. They also sustain that grid plague pathogen Aurantimonas coralicida. models are useful tools to study these dynamics.

380 Poster 1-4 Diseases of Coral Reef Organisms: Evolutionary Aspects, Current Status and Prognosis 10th ICRS

Factors Affecting the Incidence and Infectivity of Coral Disease on the Coral Disease and Health Consortium Great Barrier Reef Sylvia B GALLOWAY*, Andrew W BRUCKNER, Cheryl M WOODLEY Joanne E DAVY*, Ross J JONES, Linda L BLACKALL, Maoz FINE, Hollings Marine Laboratory, 331 Ft Johnson Rd., Charleston, SC 29412 United Ove HOEGH-GULDBERG States of America Seddon Building, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, [email protected] Australia In response to the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force and their National Action Plan to [email protected] Conserve Coral Reefs, the Coral Disease and Health Consortium (CDHC) was Coral reefs are under ever-increasing threat from coral diseases, most of which created in 2002 to provide coastal and ocean managers with scientific are inadequately described and poorly understood. The gaps in our knowledge understanding and tools to protect healthy coral reef ecosystems and restore include a poor understanding of the potential links between coral bleaching, degraded ones. Coral diseases have dramatically increased in frequency and increased seawater temperature and coral disease. In the Indo-Pacific region, distribution over the last decade, leading to unprecedented decreases in live this is compounded by the fact that few surveys of coral disease incidence have coral and altering the function and productivity of coral reef ecosystems. With been conducted. Previous research carried out in the region has highlighted more than 50 national and international partners from industry, academia and differences in disease occurrence between the Indo-Pacific and Caribbean government contributing their time and expertise, the CDHC is unifying the regions, indicating avenues for further research. Preliminary data concerning coral research community, educating and training a new generation of the incidence of coral disease at two sites within the Great Barrier Reef Marine scientists, and creating a new paradigm for studying coral health and disease. Park (GBRMP) are presented along with the results of experiments designed to Modern molecular technologies and biomedical concepts are being used with test methods of artificial induction of disease in GBR corals. Details of traditional ecological assessment tools to provide early warning of coral experiments planned to test the effects of sub-bleaching and bleaching diseases, identify causative factors and possible solutions for prevention or temperatures on the occurrence of disease in GBR corals, and methods to assess mitigation, and offer managers viable risk management options to deal with the microbial associations of healthy and diseased GBR corals, are also disease outbreaks. Several examples of CDHC activities will be highlighted, outlined. including a recent coral disease investigation, the establishment of a coral pathology review panel, the institution of new diagnostic molecular probes, and the initiation of effort to sequence a stony coral genome, as well as the establishment of facilities to provide coral organisms for laboratory research, and holding an international workshop focused on developing effective means of assessing coral health by applying standard ecotoxicology tools along with human-type diagnostic tools.

Changes in the Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Reef Fish Infected Changes in the Microbial Communities Associated with Gorgonia ventalina with Copepod Ectoparasites during Aspergillosis Infections Rachel J FINLEY*, Graham E FORRESTER Diego L GIL-AGUDELO*, Carey MYERS, Kiho KIM, Garriet W SMITH 105 Coastal Institute in Kingston, 1 Greenhouse Road, Kingston, Rhode Island 603 Earth and Water Science Building, University of South Carolina, 02881 United States of America Columbia, SC, 29208 United States of America [email protected] [email protected]

Spatial patterns in the abundance of marine organisms with pelagic larvae are Relationships between corals and microbes have been known for decades. The initially determined by settlement patterns and then modified by post-settlement surface mucopolysaccharidae layer (SML) secreted by corals is a rich processes. The result is often spatial patchiness in density. Post-settlement environment where bacteria can live and proliferate with population levels often interactions such as competition and predation are often related to density and a being several orders of magnitude higher than in the surrounding waters (at higher mortality rate is generally observed within dense patches of individuals. least for culturable microbes). Some studies have suggested that these Similarly, disease clusters may be expected at high host densities if pathogens communities play an important role in energy and nutrient flux in marine are directly transmitted. The distribution of two benthic reef gobies environments. We hypothesize that the microbial community structure of the Coryphopterus glaucofraenum and C. dicrus infected with gill copepod SML also plays a role in disease process. This hypothesis is based on studies parasites, Pharodes tortugensis, were examined to determine: 1) spatial patterns that have shown differences in bacterial communities associated in healthy and in the density of the population as a whole, and 2) whether parasitized diseased corals. We tested this hypothesis by characterizing the microbial individuals were randomly positioned throughout the population. The community structure of the SML using BIOLOG Eco-plates and then population of two benthic gobies were censused in a 780 m2 area of continuous comparing metabolic profiles of surface microbiota sampled from diseased and reef near Guana Island, British Virgin Islands, six times in September and healthy areas of the Caribbean sea fan, Gorgonia ventalina. Overall, metabolic October 2003. At each census a spatial coordinate was determined for each profiles of the surface microbiota were significantly different than those in the fish, the size in millimeters was estimated, and infection status determined. water column after analyzing the data using Step-Wise and Discriminant Spatial and temporal patterns of the goby populations and distribution of analyses. Furthermore, differences between communities living in healthy and parasitized hosts are analyzed using: Kulldorff’s Space-Time Statistic, Spatial diseased corals were also found. Although changes in the microbial Analysis by Distance Indices, and Nearest Neighbor Distance Analysis. Our communities were also observed between samples obtained over affected and previous work on this host-parasite relationship showed that parasitized gobies unaffected areas in the same colony, these changes were not as obvious as the have slower growth, suffer higher mortality, and female fish have lower ones between healthy and diseased colonies. Our results suggest that the reproductive output. Additionally, lab studies show that the parasite can be microbial communities living in the SML are affected by the presence of directly transmitted between individuals. These results indicate that the parasite Aspergillosis, even if they are not in direct contact with the affected area. This may be a process influencing the post-settlement patterns of the goby, could suggest changes in the composition of the SML due to reactions of the especially if parasite transmission is related to host density. coral to the infection as defense mechanisms or changes due to the action of the pathogenic agent.

381 10th ICRS Diseases of Coral Reef Organisms: Evolutionary Aspects, Current Status and Prognosis Poster 1-4

Targeted Research on Coral Disease and a Global Assessment International Registry of Coral Pathology C Drew HARVELL*, F AZAM, E JORDAN, L RAYMUNDO, E ROSENBERG, Shawn MCLAUGHLIN*, Kathy L PRICE, Cheryl M WOODLEY G SMITH, E WEIL, B WILLIS 904 South Morris St., Oxford, Maryland United States of America Corson Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York United States of America [email protected] [email protected] An International Registry of Coral Pathology (IRCP) has been established at the The emergence and prevalence of diseases/syndromes in the Caribbean in the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research in past few decades appears unparalleled in the geological record. But disease Oxford, Maryland, USA in affiliation with the Coral and Disease and Health prevalence is not understood regionally or globally. One hypothesis is that Consortium (CDHC). The coral registry provides a centralized repository for rising disease occurrence is related to increasing anthropogenic impacts. information on coral disease, histological techniques, and related research Warming temperatures are linked with increased disease outbreaks not only in efforts. IRCP is currently soliciting and cataloguing specimens representative corals, but in other marine organisms, human, agricultural and wildlife diseases. of healthy and diseased corals to provide the coral research community with The targettted research project seeks to understand the impacts of localized dynamic and valuable resources including a published atlas of coral histology stress and compounding effects of climate change on coral disease. We have and a web-accessible database. A relational database is being developed as a prioritized the research avenues that will provide the most direct outcomes to web based application. Diagnosis of contributed specimens is made by panels managing reefs under disease threat and also lead to the most productive of pathologists, coral biologists, and medical and veterinary experts in the opportunities for global capacity building in coral epidemiology, disease CDHC with the goal of establishing a consensus on diagnostic criteria for ecology and management. These priorities are: 1) a global assessment of coral specific coral diseases. A repository of slides, tissue blocks, fixed tissues, and diseases, 2) advancing understanding of epidemiology (origins, vectors and related photographs and reprints will be available to interested researchers for spread rates) of coral diseases, 3) evaluating major mechanisms of coral disease study and teaching purposes. The success of such a registry relies upon the resistance, 4) pinpointing the ongoing impacts of coral disease on coral participation of the research community it serves. IRCP also collaborates with biodiversity, coral community diversity and population growth. We will present other researchers in coral disease investigations and participates in coordinated our preliminary Global Coral Disease Assessment from Mexico, Caribbean, responses to coral mortality events. Current research investigations include Australia, Philippines and Palau. evaluations of various fixatives for tissue preservation; comparisons of decalcification solutions; application of immunohistochemistry techniques; and, adaptation of petrography methods to permit examination of the skeletons of corals eliminated during routine histology procedures.

Present Status of Diadema antillarum Populations in the Southwest Coast The 2003 Acroporid Mortality in the Florida Keys (USA): A Systematic of Puerto Rico Approach to a Disease Investigation Miguel A LUGO*, Ernesto WEIL Shawn W POLSON, Mats L LUNDQVIST, Sara C POLSON, Samantha L RYAN, Department of Marine Sciences, UPR, PO BOX 908, Lajas PR. USA. Pueto Dana E WILLIAMS, Margaret W MILLER, Shawn M MCLAUGHLIN, Rico Billy D CAUSEY, Richard W CURRY, Douglas MORRISON, Cheryl M WOODLEY* [email protected] Hollings Marine Laboratory, 331 Fort Johnson Rd, Charleston, South Carolina 29412 United States of America Twenty years ago an epizootic event significantly reduced populations of the [email protected] black sea urchin Diadema antillarum across the Caribbean and the western Atlantic. In this study, densities and size structures were measured in reef A rapid mortality of Acroporid corals inhabiting reefs in the Florida Keys was localities off the southwest coast of Puerto Rico to assess the current status reported in the spring of 2003. The mortality was characterized by a line of (after 20 years) of populations of D. antillarum . Densities were estimated by sloughing tissue, which moves across the coral, rapidly denuding the skeleton. counting all urchins in each of five band transects (20 x 2 m) placed at three Signs were first noted on the staghorn coral, Acropora cervicornis, on reefs in depth intervals (0-3m, 4-10m, >10m) in each reef (n = 15). All urchins found in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) near Key Largo. A the band transects were then collected and their test diameter measured with similar pattern of mortality was subsequently noted on A. cervicornis colonies calipers to estimate the size structure of the populations. To assess relationships in Biscayne National Park (BNP), A. palmata colonies within the FKNMS, and of these parameters with the structural complexity (rugosity), the habitat on A. prolifera and A. palmata in Dry Tortugas National Park (DTNP). In response to these unusual mortalities, the Coral Disease and Health Consortium rugosity was determined using the chain method of CARICOMP along the band (CDHC) coordinated one of the first comprehensive investigations of an transects. Densities per reef varied between 0.07 and 0.82 ind/m2, with mean infectious coral disease outbreak. The efforts of CDHC partners instituted 2 density of 0.23 ±0.07 ind/m for the entire area sampled. Densities of D. standard operating procedures for responding to an infectious disease outbreak. antillarum decreased across depth zones. The size frequency distribution varied These included (1) quarantine, (2) following strict protocols that minimized between depth zones (P<0.05, Kolmorogov-Smirnov) with increasing numbers cross contamination and disease transmission while allowing timely sampling of small individuals were observed in deeper waters and medium-to-large sized of both affected and unaffected corals (i.e. moving from clean to sick areas), urchins were dominant in shallow waters. A Poisson logistic regression showed and (3) decontamination of divers and their gear. Samples were collected for that the densities of D. antillarum where influenced by factors like depth and histopathology, microbiology and molecular diagnostics and processed on site, site (P<0.0001). The test revealed that rugosity did not have a statistically with each sample’s role in future laboratory analyses predetermined. This allowed samples to be collected and handled in a manner that minimized significant effect on densities but a trend to higher densities in more complex degradation of the component(s) of interest and optimized samples for areas was observed. Overall, it appears that populations of D. antillarum are laboratory tests. Preliminary results of bacterial community analysis by 16S coming back with some areas showing high densities and high proportion of rRNA gene sequencing indicate a shift in the microbial community structure juveniles. Densities in the reefs studied seem to be influenced by depth with between healthy and diseased samples from multiple locations with additional most of the urchins inhabiting the shallow areas possibly because of lack of data suggesting the possibility of multiple etiologies across the affected range. intra-specific competition due to the still low density levels

382 Poster 1-4 10th ICRS

Ecological Physiology of the Black Band Disease Cyanobacterium Culture and Identification of Desulfovibrio spp. Sulfate-reducing Bacteria Phormidium corallyticum: An Investigation into the Dark Metabolic from Black Band Disease on Reefs of the Florida Keys and Dominica Capabilities Shay VIEHMAN, Deetta K MILLS, Laurie L RICHARDSON* Davecia RAGOONATH*, Monique SALAZAR, Laurie RICHARDSON 9700 SW 328th St., Homestead, Florida United States of America University Park, Miami, Florida, 33199 United States of America [email protected] [email protected] Black band disease of corals is a pathogenic microbial consortium composed of Phormidium corallyticum is a gliding, filamentous cyanobacteria found in the a wide variety of microorganisms. Together, many of these microbes contribute microbial consortium of black band disease of coral reefs. Growth at optimal to an active sulfur cycle that produces anoxia and high levels of sulfide adjacent temperature (30 ˚C) in aerobic and anaerobic conditions was compared in light to the coral surface, conditions that are lethal to coral tissue. Sulfate-reducing and complete darkness using 17 different sterilized carbon sources in duplicate. bacteria, as sulfide producers, are an important component of the sulfur cycle Culture material was dispersed using an inoculation device to dispense equal and the black band community. Previous molecular survey studies have shown volumes of P. corallyticum. After 7 days, the anaerobic dark control experiment multiple Desulfovibrio species present in black band disease infections, but (containing no carbon source) did not survive. P. corallyticum survived for the with limited consistency between bacterial species and infections. This study entire 30 day period using sucrose, lactose, valine, ribose and sorbitol as carbon compared 16S rRNA gene sequences of sulfate-reducing bacteria selectively sources in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. After 10 to 12 days, P. cultured from six black band disease infections on four coral species in the corallyticum was unable to survive using tryptophan, lysine, arabinose, arginine Florida Keys and Dominica. The 16S rRNA gene sequences were obtained and inositol in anaerobic, dark conditions. Death occurred after days 17 and 18 through both direct sequencing of PCR products or by cloning. A BLAST using glucose, fructose, mannitol, histidine, xylose, asparagine and maltose in search revealed that eight out of eleven cultures sequenced showed greater than anaerobic dark conditions. These preliminary metabolic usage results may yield 98% homology to Desulfovibrio sp. strain TBP-1, a strain originally isolated insights into the dark physiological capabilities of P. corallyticum. from marine sediment. Although the remaining three sequences were less homologous to Desulfovibrio sp. strain TBP-1, they did not match any other sulfate-reducing (or other) species in GenBank. Results of our study will be compared to published results from other studies that included the identification of Desulfovibrio sp. found in different black band disease infections, including black band on different coral species and in different geographic areas.

Physiology of the White Plague Type II Pathogen Aurantimonas coralicida Pathological Studies on Coral Tumors of Porites spp., Okinawa, Japan Elizabeth REMILY, Laurie L RICHARDSON* Naoko YASUDA*, Yoshikatsu NAKANO, Hideyuki YAMASHIRO Biology Department, Florida International University, 11200 SW 8th St., Sesoko Station, Tropical Bioshere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus, Miami, Florida 33199 USA Okinawa, Japan [email protected] [email protected]

Since the first observation of coral disease thirty years ago, the relative impact We investigated several types of tumors appearing on the surface of Porites of coral diseases has escalated to the extent that they are now considered to be a lutea and P. solida to elucidate pathological traits of them. Morphological, major factor in reef decline. Coral diseases have been shown to cause dramatic reproductive and physiological differences were compared between ordinary short term declines in many different coral species, especially the reef building and tumorous tissues. Tumors are distinguished from ordinary tissue as swelled corals. If this trend is continued, coral diseases may play roles in permanently structure and more or less bleached color.The tumors of P. lutea are divided restructuring reef communities and in the overall degradation of the already into four types; completely bleached (Bl), pale bleached (Pbl), brown (Br), and threatened reef ecosystem. White plague type II (WPII), first documented in transformed (Tr, polyps are separated by thick coenosteum). In P. solida only 1995 on Florida’s reefs and now widespread throughout the Caribbean, has Br-tumor was observed. Density of zooxanthellae was significantly reduced in become one of the most devastating of coral diseases. The WPII pathogen was all types of tumor of P. lutea in comparison to ordinary tissue. Although Bl- isolated, was found to be a new bacterial genus, and was named Aurantimonas tumor does not have symbiotic algae, it has been hardy for more than one year coralicida. A suite of laboratory growth experiments was performed using a in the field without photosynthetic supply from the symbiont. P/R ratio was pure culture of A. coralicida to investigate the physiology of A. coralicida measured for Pbl-, Br- and Bl-tumor in P. lutea, the results showed 70% for Pbl under a variety of ecologically relevant conditions. These included a range of compared to the ordinary tissue, almost same for Br, and almost zero for Bl. In temperature, pH, and light, along with an investigation into synergistic effects. P. solida both P/R ratio and zooxanthella density showed no difference.Porites Elevated nitrogen and phosphorous concentrations were also investigated. corals are gonochoric. We determined the reproductive ability of polyps in Results revealed an optimal temperature range from 30°C to 35°C and an tumors. In P. lutea, spermatogenesis was normal but egg production was largely optimal pH between 6 and 8, which varied with change in temperature. reduced. On the other hand, even spermatogenesis was not observed in the Additionally, with increasing temperature the pH tolerance range for growth by tumor of P. solida.In the larger tumors of P. lutea, the density of calices was A. coralicida widened. Manipulation of light intensity and the addition of reduced without changing their calice size. Although the Porites corals are nitrogen and/or phosphorous had no effect on pathogen growth rate. Results characterized by cerioid colony form (without coenosteum between corallites), will be discussed in terms of the potential roles of both natural environmental in the tumor of P. lutea coenosteum developed, resulting in plocoid structure. variation and anthropogenic influence on WPII incidence. Such transformation was not observed in the tumor of P. solida. Pathological differences varied among species in Porites, however, negative effect has developed for those corals carrying tumors.

383 10th ICRS Poster 1-4

The Microbial Diversity in Normal and Bleached Scleractinian Coral, Porites lutea Hiroko YOKOUCHI*, Haruko TAKEYAMA, Tetsuro FURUKAWA, Hiroki TANIGUCHI, Makoto OMORI, Tadashi MATSUNAGA 2-24-16, Nakacho, Koganei, Tokyo Japan [email protected]

Massive scleractinian coral, Porites lutea is one of the predominant reef building corals and harbored various microorganisms such as dinophyta, chlorophyta, protozoa, and fungi. It was known that some coral bleaching triggered by bacterial infection, and bacteria associated with coral affected on the coral health. Bacterial diversity in P. lutea was still unclear. In this study, molecular analysis of bacterial community in P. lutea collected in Akajima, Okinawa was examined using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Partially bleached corals were found in Akajima on August of 2003. Normal specimens were collected in Akajima from January to October in 2003. 16S rDNA was amplified using bacterial universal primers from DNA extracted freeze-dried sample, and nested PCR was carried out using GC-clumped primer. Diversity and succession of bacteria associated among normal and bleached corals was compared in DGGE profiles of amplified 16S rDNA. In normal P. lutea, Green sulfur bacteria and α-Proteobacteria predominantly was identified by DGGE analysis. However, they were not observed in bleached coral, member of Cytophaga-Flavobacterium-Bacteroides (CFB) and Gram positive bacteria were particularly appeared from bleached coral. These results suggested that these bacteria are possibly used as the microbial indicators for coral diagnosis.

384 Poster 2-2 The Influence of Storms and Floods on Coral Reef Development 10th ICRS

Critical Limits of Sediment Accumulation Rates for Reef Corals in The Impact of Anthropogenic Activities to the Water Quality of Coral Abrolhos, Bahia, Brazil Reefs, South Taiwan Leo X C DUTRA, Ruy K P KIKUCHI*, Zelinda M A N LEAO Pei-Jie MENG*, Hung-Jen LEE, Min-Li TSAI, Ching-Ya YEN, Chia-Ming CHANG Centre for Ecological Economics and Water Policy Research (CEEWPR) 2 Houwan Rd. Checheng, Pingtung, 944,Taiwan. University of New England Armidale NSW 2351 Australia [email protected] [email protected] Since July 2001, the National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium This work evaluates the effects of sediment accumulation on reef corals from (NMMBA), under the supports of Kenting National Park Headquarters and the Abrolhos area, Brazil. Sediment accumulation rate was measured in five National Science Council, has been conducting a Long-term ecological reef stations during October/2001 and March/2002. Live coral cover, diameter monitoring program of biological , chemical and ecological impacts from of coral colonies and species diversity were measured in the same stations anthropogenic activities. Nevertheless, the ecological protection areas in the according to the AGGRA (Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment) protocol, Kenting National Park was poorly described before the program. We collected along six belt transects (10m x 1m), and the number of recruits were counted in seawater samples around Nanwan bay from 20 different collection sites over a 3 five quadrats (25 cm) located at every 2 m along the transects. Pearson’s years period of time since 2001.Water samples collected were immediately correlation was used in order to confirm the relationship between biotic and analyzed for temperature, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, BOD5, nutrients (as abiotic parameters. Sediment accumulation rate of 10 mg.cm-2.day-1 seems to nitrite, nitrate and phosphate), ammonium, chlorophyll a, suspended solids and constitute a critical limit for coral survival. Above it, there is a significant turbidity. The results of temperature (ranged from 20.1 to 33.4°C) , salinity inverse relationship between the sedimentation rate and the measured biotic (ranged from 0.19 to 34.80 psu), pH (ranged from 7.56 to 9.41), dissolved parameters, such as live coral cover, average diameter of Millepora alcicornis oxygen (ranged from 3.53 to 15.59 mg/L), dissolved oxygen saturation (ranged colonies, total number of recruits and number of Siderastrea stellata recruits. In from 48.5 to 200.0%), BOD5 (ranged from 0.1 to 7.4 mg/L), nitrite (ranged places where sediment accumulation rates are higher than this value, there is a from nd to 450 ug/L), nitrate(ranged from 1 to 1800 ng/L), phosphate (ranged considerable decline in the coral community health indicators. Morphological from nd to 1288 ug/L), ammonium (ranged from nd to 4.44mg/L), chlorophyll a and distribution variations of the reefs structures are, most probably, the major (ranged from 0.02 to 15.25 ug/L) and turbidity(ranged from 0.31 to 509 ntu) factors that expose the corals to the effects of sediment influx. The stations were varied with seasons and locations. Obviously, the higher values of located at the top of the bank reefs closest to mainland show the highest values turbidity and suspended solids were affected by run-off around the Nanwan for the rate of sediment accumulation and the highest percentage of siliciclastic Bay. The fluxes of nutrients and suspended solids were dependent of the sediments, which also seems to influence reef vitality. Negative impact of rainfall, and a relatively consistent correlation was found between nutrients and terrigenous sediment content is shown by the inverse relationship among its suspended solids abundance in the water mass and the rainfall. Therefore, the content, which decreases relative to carbonate sediments from nearshore to coral reef around Nanwan Bay have been affected by the higher values of offshore, and the reef vitality indicators, which increases from the inner to the nutrients, BOD5, suspended solids etc. In summary, the water quality of outer reefs. Nanwan Bay has been damaged.

Transport of Flood Sediment on the Molokai Fringing Coral Reef, Hawaii Salinity Variation on an Off Shore Coral Reef after a Period of Intense Michael FIELD*, Curt STORLAZZI, Kathy PRESTO, Andrea OGSTON, Rainfall Michael BOTHNER Norman QUINN*, Barbara L KOJIS 400 Natural Bridges Drive, Sant Cruz, California 95076 United States of Discovery Bay, St Ann Jamaica America [email protected] [email protected] A Star Oddi underwater data logger was deployed on a reef at 9 m about 5 km off the island of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. During a period of 10 days During the winter of 2001-2002 we obtained synoptic data on currents, wave over 0.5 m of rain fell over the island causing wide spread flooding and stresses, and suspended sediment concentration from a series of bottom mounted instrument packages on the fringing reef flat and fore reef of Molokai, damage on land. This paper will discuss the salinity variation associated with Hawaii. Intense rainfall during the 2001-02 winter produced coastal flooding the rainfall and discuss implications for coral reef monitoring and management. and delivered large quantities of terrigenous sediment to the reef. Our prior studies on the reef flat showed that high levels of suspended sediment concentration (SSC) occur when trade winds blow at moderate to high speeds during high tides. During the weeks following the flood deposition, we observed a double pulse of elevated SSC on the reef flat. The first pulse was associated with high tides and strong trade winds, typical of the long-term record; the second pulse may have been related to advection of mud eroded from an adjacent recently formed flood deposit up current of the instrument location. Turbidity hit a maximum several days after the flood as turbid water flowed along shore and dispersed seaward. Waves were a major factor in re-suspending and re-distributing sediment onto the fore reef. Sediment collected in tube and time-series sediment traps following the flood was significant, due to direct plume deposition and re- suspension by large wave -induced near-bed shear stresses (~2 N/m2) during the flood event. Heavy rainfall in January caused more flooding, and associated high wave stresses (about 1.2 N/m2 ) also resulted in significant sediment trap collection rates on the fore reef. In early January, even modest stresses (0.5 N/m2) created substantial trap collection rates. Our results indicate that transport of flood deposits on reefs is complicated, and includes a history of initial deposition and temporary storage on the reef flat. This is followed by re- suspension during periods of large wave-induced bottom stress and subsequent advection along and across the reef.

385 10th ICRS Coral Reefs and Global Change IV : Corals, Carbon and Climate Poster 2-9

Impact of Carbon Dioxide on the Gorgonian Pseudoplexaura porosa: Effect of Early Marine Diagenesis on Coral Reconstructions of Surface- Coupling between Photosynthesis and Calcification Ocean 13C / 12C and Carbonate Saturation State Alexandra AMAT*, Samantha DE PUTRON, Nellie BRYLEWSKA Anne MULLER, Michael K GAGAN, Janice M LOUGH* Ferry Reach, St George GE01 BERMUDA Steele Building, St. Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia [email protected] [email protected]

During the last decade, the study of the responses of coral reef organisms to Recent research suggests that future decreases in the carbonate saturation state increased atmospheric CO2 levels has extensively focused on scleractinian of surface seawater associated with the projected build-up of atmospheric CO2 corals and coralline algae. The understanding of the metabolic response of these could cause a global decline in coral reef-building capacity. Whether significant calcifiers to CO2 is complicated by their high rates of photosynthesis and red uctions in coral calcification are underway is a matter of considerable calcification, resulting in interconnected sources of carbon. Zooxanthellate debate. Multi-century records of skeletal calcification extracted from massive gorgonian corals are important and conspicuous components of many reef corals have the potential to reconstruct the progressive effect of anthropogenic systems. They are also active carbon producers, although photosynthesis and changes in carbonate s aturation on coral reefs. However, early marine calcification progress at a lower rate than the main reef builders. Therefore, aragonite cements are commonly precipitated from porewaters in the basal they can be used as a model to better understand the chemical and biological portions of massive coral skeletons and, if undetected, could result in apparent control of calcification.Here we investigate the impact of an elevated non-linear reductions in coral calcification toward the present. To address this issue, we present records of coral skeletal density, extension rate, calcification concentration of CO2 on the physiology and metabolism of the gorgonian 13 18 Pseudoplexaura porosa. A total of 40 branches, 40-50cm in length, of P. rate, δ C, and δ O for well preserved and diagenetically altered coral cores porosa were collected at two reef sites in Bermuda (32°N, 65°W). Half were spanning ~1830-1994 AD at Ningaloo Reef Marine Park, Western Australia. The record for the pristine coral shows no significant decrease in skeletal acclimated in water equilibrated with atmospheric pCO2 levels of 400 ppm density or δ13C indicative of anthropogenic changes in carbonate saturation (control), the other 20 branches at 700-1000ppm (elevated). After 10 days of state or δ13C of surf a ce seawater (oceanic Suess effect). In contrast, acclimation, gamete release was observed from the branches in the control tank, progressive addition of early ma rine inorganic aragonite toward the base of the in accordance with the documented timing of spawning for this species in altered coral produces an apparent ~25% decrease in skeletal density toward the Bermuda. Spawning was greatly reduced from the branches held under elevated present, which misleadingly matches the no n-linear 20th century decrease in pCO levels. At the end of a three month period, respirometric chambers were 2 coral calcification predicted by recent modeling and experimental studies. In used to measure photosynthesis and respiration (oxygen and carbon addition, the diagenetic aragonite is enriched in 13C, relative to coral aragonite, measurements), along with calcification (alkalinity technique), from several resulting in a non-linear decrease in δ13C toward the present that mimics the branches acclimated to the control and elevated pCO levels. The apex of the 2 decrease in δ13C expected from the oceanic Suess effect. Taken together, these branches were then sampled to determine spicule weight, shape and size, as diagenetic changes in skeletal density and δ13C could be misinterpreted to well as chlorophyll, protein, zooxanthellae, carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus reflect changes in surface-ocean carbonate saturation state driven by the 20th concentrations analysis. The differences observed for all these parameters in century build-up of atmospheric CO2. response to elevated pCO2 levels will be presented and discussed.

Coral Calcification and Water Temperature Interacting Effects of Pco2 and Temperature on Metabolism of a Janice M LOUGH* Scleractinian Coral PMB 3, Townsville MC, Queensland 4810 Australia Stephanie REYNAUD, Nicolas LECLERCQ, Samantha ROMAINE-LIOUD, [email protected] Christine FERRIER-PAGES, Jean JAUBERT, Jean-Pierre GATTUSO, Denis ALLEMAND* Average calcification and extension rates in the massive coral Porites are Av. Saint MARTIN, 98000 MONACO France, Metropolitan closely linked with average water temperatures. The calcification rate changes [email protected] by 0.33 g.cm -2 .yr -1 and extension rate by 3.1 mm.yr-1 for each 1°C change in average sea surface temperatures (Lough and Barnes, 2000). The robustness of The effects of increased pCO2 and temperature on photosynthesis, respiration this relationship between Porites growth rates and average water temperatures and calcification rates were investigated in the scleractinian coral Stylophora has been confirmed with the addition of data from new sites. The relationship pistillata. Cuttings were exposed to temperatures of 25°C or 28°C and to pCO2 now extends for corals growing in average water temperatures between 23- of 460 or 760 μatm for several weeks. The contents of chlorophyll c and 29.5°C. This relationship also allows identification of reefs where Porites are 2 protein remained constant throughout the experiment while the chlorophyll a not growing at expected rates. Earlier evidence of an increase in average content was significantly affected by temperature, and was higher under “high calcification rates on the Great Barrier Reef, which matched rising water temperature-high pCO ” condition. The cell specific density was higher at “high temperatures, is revisited with the addition of new data from long coral cores. 2

pCO2” than at “normal pCO2” (1.7 vs. 1.4). Net photosynthesis normalized per

unit protein was affected by both temperature and pCO2, whereas respiration was not affected by the treatments. Calcification decreased by 50% when

temperature and pCO2 were both elevated. Calcification under normal

temperature did not change in response to an increased pCO2. This is not in agreement with numerous published papers that describe a negative relationship

between marine calcification and CO2. The confounding effect of temperature has the potential to explain the large variability of the relationship between

calcification and pCO2 reported in the literature and warrants a re-evaluation of the projected decrease of marine calcification by the year 2100.

386 Poster 2-9 Coral Reefs and Global Change IV : Corals, Carbon and Climate 10th ICRS

Carbon Production in Coral Reef Ecosystem at Sesoko Island, in Okinawa Ryoko TOKESHI*, Hiroyuki FUJIMURA, Yukio KITADA, Kouhei TANIGUCHI, Tamotsu OOMORI, Yoshikatsu NAKANO 6-1 Kasugakouen, Kasugashi, Fukuoka, Japan [email protected]

In coral reef, there are many kinds of living organisms that have high potential of carbon production. The ecosystem in fringing coral reef at Sesoko Island is complicated since the biological activity in such coral reef is affected by both meteoric water from land and sea water from open ocean, respectively, as well as variations of photon flux, tide and other environmental parameters. Under the condition, studying the system of carbon production is tedious, however it is important to eludate the factors of carbon cycle in the sea. The purpose of this study is to establish the organic and inorganic carbon production in coral reef by constructing BOX-MODEL and to demonstrate the dynamic system of community metabolism. In this study, for a year between December 2002 and November 2003, many parameters (temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, pH, depth and current speed) were directly monitored in every 15 minutes in coral reef at southeast area of Sesoko Island, Okinawa. Time series alkalinity and pCO2 values in sea water were calculated from DO-pH and from pH-alkalinity values, respectively. Then for estimating carbon production in coral reef ecosystem, BOX-MODEL was constructed. This BOX-MODEL has been composed of the material balance of input and output using the concentration difference among three regions of open ocean, coral reef and coastal area. Organic carbon production was calculated from the concentration difference in time series dissolved oxygen between open ocean and coral reef, and then inorganic carbon production from the difference in alkalinity. As the results, seasonal variation on these carbon productions was well calculated with BOX- MODEL. Their carbon production was consistent with the photon- photosynthesis relationship. In this study, average gross production is 300- 400mmol/m2/day, respiration is 120-250mmol/m2/day and net production is 150-250mmol/m2/day.

387 10th ICRS Coral Reefs and Global Change VI : Reef and Societal Implications of Bleaching Poster 2-11

Warming of the Great Barrier Reef Leading up to Coral Bleaching Severine CHOUKROUN, Craig R STEINBERG* PMB#3 Townsville MC, Queensland Australia [email protected]

Elevated Sea Surface Temperature (SST) is the primary stress for corals that lead to bleaching. This occurred over significant areas of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) during 1998 and 2002. Each successive event being the most widespread and intense on record. The 1998 event was characterised by warming in the central coastal and inner lagoon of the GBR, whereas in 2002 the whole Coral Sea experienced elevated temperatures.The significance of these events both locally and globally have driven a significant research effort at AIMS. NOAA AVHRR SST imagery has provided an excellent method to assess the spatial and daily development of heating over the GBR. However little work has focussed on characterising the distribution of temperature down and into the water column. The Generalised Ocean Turbulence Model (GOTM) was applied to investigate this process. It is a one-dimensional water column model that allows the thermodynamics, hydrodynamics and the resultant turbulence to be modelled. We show the development of these extreme events in the central GBR where AIMS has a network of weather stations across the continental shelf. The air-sea heat balance and the effects of mixing by winds, tides and currents have been modelled and verified against temperature loggers. By understanding the mixing processes, surface hot waters can be dissipated or redistributed throughout the water column alleviating the thermal stress through wind or tidal mixing. Results show the effects of only short bursts of heating during doldrum like conditions (no wind, clear skies) can lead to rapid heating beyond coral bleaching thresholds.

Predicting Coral Bleaching Events Using a Blended Satellite Sea Surface Temperature Data Halmar HALIDE* Makassar 90245, South Sulawesi, Indonesia [email protected]

A simple neural-network support model is developed to predict sea temperature that leads to coral bleaching events around Magnetic Island, North Queensland, Australia. The model’s input is a monthly blended satellite IGOSS-NMC Sea Surface Temperature data while the output is a monthly predicted sea surface temperature up to 12 months in advance. The predicted temperature determines whether or not a bleaching will occur in few months time. An earlier study, conducted at the same location using an in-situ sea temperature data, finds that bleaching events occur when the maximum sea temperature in a particular year is 0.38 °C higher than that of the previous year (Halide, 2001; Halide and Ridd, 2002). The present model is validated against observed temperatures and events from year 1990 to 1999. The temperature prediction has a Pearson correlation ranges from 0.78 to 0.82. The best Peirce score for predicting a bleaching or non-bleaching event is 0.86±0.21. This is significantly higher than that of the no-skill random forecast of 0.0±0.34. This study is able to demonstrate that, in the absence of any in-situ temperature measurement, a satellite data could be used for predicting bleaching events. The model’s skill, however, is limited only on predicting an event that will occur one month in advance.

388 Poster 3-4 Primary Production in Coral Reef Environments with Special Reference to Picoplankton, its Role and Significance 10th ICRS

Detection and Characterization of Cyanobacterial nif H Genes (Nitrogen Fixation) in Mayotte Island Lagoon (Indian Ocean; 12˚ S, 45˚ E) Areen BOULOS, Loic CHARPY*, Cheng-Cai ZHANG, Jean BLANCHOT, Marie-Jose LANGLADE COM rue de la batterie des lions 13007 Marseille France, Metropolitan [email protected]

Mayotte Island has a large and deep lagoon where N2-fixing Trichodesmium blooms are frequently observed in austral summer. During not bloom conditions, the phytoplankton biomass is dominated by the small coccoid cyanobacteria Synechococcus. Here, we investigate the presence of N2-fixing organisms in the <10µm size class. By using degenerate oligonucleotide primers it has been possible to amplify, clone, and sequence a segment of the nifH gene from <10µm natural assemblage. We found several strains of organisms which have the nifH gene inside and outside of the lagoon. Examination of the DNA and amino acid sequence shows that, for one of the strain, the gene is most closely related to that of Synechococcus. The other strains are in the way of identification. These preliminary results indicate that a variety of N2-fixing organisms exist in coral reef waters and that N2 fixation should have a major role in the lagoon N budget, even during non Trichodesmium bloom conditions.

389 10th ICRS Toward a Stable Coral Reef Ecosystem: The Dynamics of Nutrients and Organic Matter poster 3-6

Nitrate Uptake by a Scleractinian Coral Spatial Heterogeneity of Biogeochemical Components at the Sediment Renaud GROVER, Jean-Francois MAGUER, Denis ALLEMAND*, Interface: Relations with Ecological Units in an Insular Coral Reef Christine FERRIER-PAGES Ecosystem (Moorea, French Polynesia) Avenue Saint Martin 98000 Monaco Muriel SCHRIMM*, Mehdi ADJEROUD, Roselyne BUSCAIL [email protected] Universite de Perpignan, 52 av. Paul Alduy, Perpignan France, Metropolitan [email protected] We assessed the uptake rates of nitrate by the scleractinian coral Stylophora pistillata, by following 15N from seawater into the coral tissue. 15N-NO - 3 The present study was designed to identify the major sediment types around enriched seawater was used as a 15N source. In a first experiment, the uptake Moorea and to examine the spatial variability of the biogeochemical -1 - rate of “nitrate-enriched” corals grown in 5 μmol L NO3 was compared to composition of surface sediments, in relation to geomorphological units and -1 - benthic communities distribution. A total of 35 stations were sampled at 4 sites those of control corals grown in <= 1 μmol L NO3 incubated at two different

15 - -1 15 around the island, on the various geomorphological units identified. Several N-NO3 concentrations (0.3 and 3 μmol L ). Most of the % N enrichment descriptors were used to precisely determine and characterise the different occurred in the zooxanthellae fraction. Uptake rates were not significantly sediment types: inorganic carbon (IC), organic carbon (OC), nitrogen (N), C/N different between nitrate-enriched and control corals, suggesting that they were ratio, hydrolysable organic carbon (HOC), total amino acids (AA), and total not dependent on a nitrate acclimation. These rates increased with the in situ carbohydrates (CH). A strong spatial heterogeneity was found in the nitrate concentration and varied from 1.2 ± 0.2 ng N h-1 cm-2 to 6.1 ± 1.1 ng N h- biogeochemical composition of surface sediments at the scale of Moorea Island. 1 cm-2 in the algal fraction at 0.3 and 3 μmol L-1 15N-NO -, respectively. In a 3 Four major sediment types, that did not exactly match the geomorphological second experiment, uptake rates of “ammonium-enriched” corals grown in 5 μ units of the reef system, could be distinguished around Moorea by the -1 + -1 mol L NH4 were compared to those of control corals grown in < 1 μmol L multivariate analyses (PCA and clustering). The first type corresponds to the + -1 15 - inner half bay bottoms, and clearly represents the “terrigeneous” influence, NH4 incubated at 3 μmol L N-NO3 . These rates were significantly lower + mainly characterised by a clear deficit in carbonates and, conversely, by an with high NH4 concentrations in seawater. In the algal fraction, they ranged enrichment in organic compounds (OC, N, AA, CH) that were highly degraded. from 0.1 to 0.6 ng N h-1 cm-2 in NH +-enriched corals and from 2.2 to 4.5 ng N h- 4 Two other sediment types were influenced by the carbonated reef system and 1 -2 cm in control corals. Nitrate can therefore be considered as an important were highly carbonated (IC around 11 %; i.e. carbonates around 90 %), source of nitrogen for corals, at least when ammonium concentrations are low showing low organic compound concentrations. They were also characterised in seawater. by high HOC concentrations. These two “reef-characteristic” sediment types can be distinguished by their N concentrations and C/N ratio. The fourth type represents a transition between “reef-characteristic” and “terrigeneous” sediment types. A gradient along the bays was also found, as for other reef communities. Finally, our study also demonstrates the effectiveness of HOC, total AA and CH to differentiate sediment types in reef systems, together with the more “classical” descriptors: IC, OC and N. They are reliable descriptors for spatial variability surveys and may be used as indicators of reef “health” .

Organic Production and Calcification in Coral Reef Communities in Bora Effect of Nitrate Enrichment on Release of Organic Carbon and Nitrogen Bay, Miyako Island, Okinawa, Japan from Zooxanthellate Coral Acropora pulchla and Subsequent Microbial Yoshio ISHIKAWA*, Yoshimi SUZUKI, Beatriz CASARETO, Tamotsu OMORI Decomposition under Laboratory Conditions 836 oya, Shizuoka, Japan Yasuaki TANAKA*, Toshihiro MIYAJIMA, Yu UMEZAWA, Hideki FUKUDA, [email protected] Isao KOIKE, Hiroshi OGAWA, Takeshi HAYASHIBARA 1-15-1 Minamidai, Nakano-ward, Tokyo Japan The relationship between calcification and organic production based dissolved [email protected] oxygen, total alkalinity and calcium was studied at Bora Bay in Miyako Island, Okinawa, Japan during the period of 1994 to 1995. Ca was determined with an Human induced eutrophication is increasingly becoming common on fringing automatic photometric titration using zincon and Zinc-EGTA. The diel changes coral reefs. Physiological responses of coral and zooxanthellae to of calcium, total alkalinity and dissolved oxygen concentrations were measured eutrophication have been relatively well studied, but studies of the effects on in coral reef waters throughout four field enclosure experiments: dome type the dynamics of coral exudates have been a few, although its importance for chambers of 1m in diameter were settled onto benthos in four different areas coral reef ecosystem has been well recognized. In this study, organic carbon with including different coral species and excluding living corals in one of the and nitrogen released from the reef-building coral Acropora pulchla collected at enclosures. TA to Ca ratio ranged from 1.3 to 2.0 with an average value of 1.8 Shiraho Reef in Ishigaki Island, Japan and their subsequent microbial 15 for living coral and benthos, and was 2.9 for benthos. The slope of 1.8 for living decomposition was investigated under nitrate enriched conditions using N- nitrate and 13C-bicarbonate as tracers. Under low nitrate condition (+2 μM 15N- coral and benthos is close to the theoretical slope of 2.0 based chemical nitrate), nitrate was rapidly consumed possibly by zooxanthellae in the coral reaction. The slope of 2.9 for benthos is influence of decomposition for - within 2 days, while only 38% of NO3 was used for 4 days incubation under carbonate. Calcification rate ranged from 12 to 216 μmolC/l-day, while net high nitrate condition (+50 μM 15N-nitrate). Both DOM and POM organic production ranged from 119 to 261 μmolC /l-day, and respiration of accumulation in +50 μM bottle averages 30% less than in +2 μM, showing organic carbon ranged from 167 to 279 μmolC/l-day for all experiments. Pg/R that nitrate enrichment significantly reduced the amount of DOM and POM ratios were greater than 1 with an average value of 1.8 at Bora Bay. The ratio production. C:N of accumulated DOM and POM in +50 μM (22.9 and 14.2) Pg/C was 6.3 for experiments with living coral and benthos and 35 for only was higher than in +2 μM (19.9 and 9.0) on average. These observations benthos, suggesting that gross organic production at Bora Bay is greater than suggest that nitrate enrichment caused significant physiological responses not calcification. High Pg/C ratios may be derived from the high productivity of only in zooxanthellae but in host corals that are primarily responsible to DOM and POM release. After 4 days of incubation and removal of coral from the benthic organisms such as epiphytic and endolitic microalgae, turf algae, and cultures, the culture media were incubated for > 3 months under dark condition symbiotic zooxanthellae in benthic invertebrates. Bora Bay is characterized as to follow the microbial decomposition of accumulated DOM and POM. During organic production is greater than carcification in carbon metabolism. the first 45 days, significant decomposition of DOC occurred, while PON degradation was slow and both DON and POC remained almost same concentrations. These results suggest that bacterial population utilized DOM as a carbon source and POM as a nitrogen source. The difference of initial nitrate concentrations, however, did not affect the decomposition of accumulated bulk DOM and POM.

390 Poster 3-6 Toward a Stable Coral Reef Ecosystem: The Dynamics of Nutrients and Organic Matter 10th ICRS

Seasonal and Spatial Variations of Nitrogen Sources for Macroalgae and its Controlling Factors Assessed by δ ; 15N and Other Chemical Components in Algal Thalli at Fringing Coral Reefs Yu UMEZAWA*, Toshihiro MIYAJIMA, Yasuaki TANAKA, Isao KOIKE, Hideo OHBA, Takeshi HAYASHIBARA 1-15-1, Minamidai, Nakano, Tokyo Japan [email protected]

Although δ15N in macroalgae has been used as a bio-indicator to monitor the time-integrated uptake of land-derived nitrogen, the limited information about physiological characteristics of nutrients uptake by target macroalgae have hampered proper interpretation of spatial and temporal differences of algal δ 15N obtained in the coral reefs. Thus, we conducted laboratory experiments focusing on nutrients uptake under different environmental conditions using brown algae, Padina australis, which is distributed in seasonally and spatially broad extents at coral reefs in Okinawa south west of Japan. The effects of isotopic fractionation associated with macroalgal N uptakes seemed to be minor compared with the case of phytoplankton, due to combination of inherent factors in macroalgae (e.g., translocations of N components from the mature parts to apical parts and adjustments of the amount of chlorophyll pigments), and considered to be ignored at nitrogen limited conditions where the algal N contents were kept under 1.5 - 1.6%. Also, the seasonal and spatial distributions of chemical compositions (e.g., δ15N, δ13C and N contents) in whole thalli of Padina spp. together with nutrients (e.g., nitrate and phosphate) in water column were measured intensively in the reef. Taking into account of the effects of isotopic fractionations from the algal N contents of samples, it was concluded that periodic terrestrial nitrate inputs as high concentrations were actively incorporated in benthic macroalgae mostly within 300m from the shoreline, depending on the water circulation, effluent nitrate concentrations and other primary productivity. In spite of the absence of the terrestrial input of high nitrate contribution, higher N contents in algal thalli were observed rather at the offshore areas where corals were flourished and physical disturbances were large. It was suggested that in situ mineralized or offshore-derived DIN supplied with high fluxes was also significant N sources for benthic autotrophs in coral ecosystems.

391 10th ICRS Critical Appraisal of Local, Customary, Participatory and Co-management Poster 4-8

Reefs at Risk: Mining, Aquaculture, Shoreline Development and Public Co-management of Coral Reef Protected Areas: A Chimera or a Winner?? Finance in Kanaky/New Caledonis Nancy DASCHBACH* Rick ANEX*, Stephanie FRIED PO Box 4318, Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 American Samoa BP. 623 Bourail 98870 New Caledonia [email protected] [email protected] Co-management regimes have been touted in many success stories as the way New Caledonia, or Kanaky, a French Overseas Territory situated in the to involve different decision-making stakeholders in the development and Southwest Pacific, is an island archipelago identified by leading scientists as management of coral reef protected areas. Although on the face of it this one of the world’s top ten “biodiversity hotspots.”Kanaky contains the largest strategy would seem to satisfy the most agents and agencies, it can become a concentration of nickel laterites in the world. Surrounded by an extraordinary delicate and protracted process fraught with misunderstanding and distrust. barrier reef. Kanaky contains one of the world’s largest lagoon systems. This Clear and careful articulation of each others goals and expectations is essential little-researched reef and lagoon system is home to a vast number of marine and needs to be reiterated regularly. Operating models in American Samoa such species including many found nowhere else. Recently, marine researchers as those with the National Marine Sanctuary, the National Park, the American discovered over 2,700 species of marine mollusks at one site, alone, several Samoa Government and local villages will be examined for successes and times the number of species recorded from any other comparable area in the outcomes of challenges met.. world.In January 2002, the French government proposed these reef ecosystems for listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In March, 2002, sixty-two coastal and marine scientific experts designated the reefs of New Caledonia to be of “Outstanding Universal Value” in terms of their biodiversity attributes and placed these reefs at the top of priority list for World Heritage designation in the Pacific.Many of Kanaky’s reef ecosystems are in good to excellent condition owing to their physical isolation and minimal human pressure from fishing. Unfortunately, however, these reefs are under increasing threat from the following sectors: Industrial open-pit nickel mining and associated air and water pollution;Intensive development of industrial shrimp aquaculture planned for much of the coastal zone;Commercial shoreline development.This paper presents a brief overview of current threats to Kanaky reef ecosystems and an analysis of the manner by which public finance, including bilateral financial institutions have supported or are likely to support activities which threaten the health of these extraordinary marine ecosystems.

A Review of Scleractinian Species Diversity in India, its Importance in the Community-based Coastal Resource Management Applied in the Reef Ecosystem Remediation and System Remediation- An Appraisal Municipality of Cagayancillo Satyanarayana CHOWDULA* Arturo O FABURADA*, Marlowe G SABATER, Maria Zoe C LATUMBO, Coral Taxonomist, Fire Proof Spirit Building, Zoological Survey of India, Marivel P DYGICO Indian Museum Complex, 27 J.L. Nehru Road, Kolkata - 700 016. Republic of #3 WESCOM Road, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Phlippines India [email protected] [email protected]; [email protected] The Island-Municipality of Cagayancillo is a cluster of small islands located in India the organiser of the first international coral reef symposium was the middle of the Sulu Sea. It is a sixth class municipality of the province of struggling hard since 1969 to save and conserve its diverse reefs, which are Palawan with a land area of 2,526 hectares and inhabited by about 6,000 people present on all the corners and was partially successful due to various reasons. mostly belonging to the ethnic group of Cagayanen. The main sources of As a result almost all its reefs are under severe threat due to site-specific income are fishing and seaweeds farming. Beginning in the late 1980s, anthropogenic interferences and natural threats like cyclones and the dreaded fishermen from Cagayancillo were influenced by transient fishermen from other global threat “bleaching”. In the very recent past this tenth coral area possessor provinces to use destructive methods such as dynamite and cyanide fishing. stood up to the occasion with the support extended by friendly countries. At This caused rapid deterioration of the coral reefs of Cagayancillo including the present it is in a position to enhance its capacity and almost all its reefs are Tubbataha Reef (which was declared as a National Marine Park in 1988), which reasonably quantified. This is evident from the many fold increase in the belongs to its political boundary. This also led to the collapse of their seaweed number of publications, reef researchers and most prominently new records of industry. The Park Management, therefore, included in its management plan reef dwelling species. Biodiversity of an environment acts as a litmus paper to objectives the enhancement of the capacity of Cagayancillo residents to manage the health of that environment. A recent study of some Andamans reefs their resources in a sustainable manner. This was done through information and revealed their pristinely condition and highlighted their importance as seeding education campaign simultaneous with research and monitoring. Having grounds for other reefs in the Indian Ocean which are severely affected by increased local awareness on the importance of their marine and coastal bleaching. The state of Andamans, with high scleractinian diversity and new resources, communities in Cagayancillo became actively involved in developing their 10-year Coastal Resource Management Plan. Capacity records for, are a litmus test for the reefs of India and neighboring countries. building interventions were then focused on participatory planning and But the real acid test is to build genuine commitment to the conservation of decision-making processes. Local resource management structures were Indian reefs, to formulate effective strategies, and to implement actions that will formalized based on partnership between government and communities. lay a strong base for protecting the reefs, without delay. Scleractinian diversity Resource management strategies were designed to balance environment and is taken as a reckoner to asses the status of each reef region in the light of the human concerns. Likewise, science and traditions were given due consideration. site-specific disturbances and an assessment of the expected zooxanthellate At this point, local resource managers are taking the initiatives in developing scleractinian diversity with a comparison to the diversity in the countries financial mechanism to sustain their coastal resource management actions. around is attempted. Fresh site-specific strategies are suggested to sustainably conserve the reefs.

392 Poster 4-8 Critical Appraisal of Local, Customary, Participatory and Co-management 10th ICRS

Privatising Fish? Barriers to the Use of Marine Protected Areas for The Landing Tour and Conservation Issue at Yabiji Reef (Miyako Islands, Conservation and Fishery Management in Melanesia Okinawa, Japan). II. Construction of Community Based Framework Simon J FOALE, Bruno K MANELE* towards Reef Conservation Resource Management in Asia-Pacific Program, Dept of Anthropology, Kenji KAJIWARA*, Hisashi MATSUMOTO RSPAS, Australian National University, Australia ACT 0200 Australia 3485 Karimata, Hirara, Okinawa 906-0002 Japan [email protected] [email protected]

Miyako Islands, located in 300 km southwest of Okinawa Island, has some reef In this paper we examine the strengths and weaknesses of state-supported Customary Marine Tenure (CMT) systems in two independent Melanesian conservation issues in common with other reef areas. One of the weighty states in the context of burgeoning commercial and subsistence fisheries. Both subjects is the tourism use of coral reef. Two local shipment services have been Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands are categorised by most observers as operating landing tours at Yabiji Reef, an isolated patch reef group. It is thought “weak states” where access by foreign-owned fishing companies to state-owned to be the largest tourism activity in the number of the tourists, at coral reefs of resources (e.g. tuna) is typically easy to obtain by allegedly bribing the relevant Japan. The shipment services carry about 2,000 or 3,000 tourists by large politicians and bureaucrats at national and/or provincial level. By contrast, ferries, and land them onto the reefs during the ebb of spring tide for about 3 access to near-shore fishery resources necessitates negotiation with the days in April. Although prefectural fishery regulation ordinances state the landowners of adjacent coastal zones. However the expansion of markets and banning coral taking, and limit shellfish taking, the Japanese legal system for rapid increases in populations in the region are exerting pressures on reef conservation including enforcement is inadequate generally. The Hirara subsistence and commercial fisheries that are already creating significant problems. In Solomon Islands the recent civil unrest has also meant that any City local government of Miyako Island, has been promoting a conservation escalation in marine resource piracy is likely to proceed unchecked. The project against the landing tour issue since 1998. The project includes management tool of choice for multi-species fisheries across the world, and investigations of reef status and actual tour situations, raising awareness on particularly in cash-poor developing countries is the Marine Protected Area coral reef, recommendation of alternative or improved tour style, and the (MPA), and this system has proved quite successful in many instances, formation of reef use guidelines based on community consensus. The results of particularly in rich, industrialised countries. However, with some exceptions, investigations suggested that introducing interpreters, who give information or typical Melanesian CMT regimes make MPAs difficult to establish because warning for reef conservation to the tourists, may be able to reduce the negative many coastal zones are finely divided along clan boundaries, such that few impacts on the reef community. Thereat Hirara City has been training citizens clans would be willing to “lock up” their own reefs for the benefit of as coral reef interpreters, and test-introducing them to the landing tour since neighbouring clans. How then can local communities in these countries most 2001. Some citizens, who participated in the program, founded a NGO, “Reef effectively manage their marine resources in an environment of escalating fishing pressure and weak governance? In this essay we analyse the social and Interpretation Society, Miyako Islands” in 2002, and they hold reef observation institutional contexts of near-shore community-based fishery resource events for the residents to raise awareness on reef nature and culture. These management, and explore options for the future. We look at the utility of movements tempering the conflictive atmosphere of the stakeholders, and it set educating reef owners about the life cycle of marine organisms and how this a discussion table for reef use guidelines which is based on community information could empower villagers to better formulate their own management consensus. regimes.

Predator Dominated Ecosystems: The Political Ecology of Marine The Landing Tour and Conservation Issue at Yabiji Reef (Miyako Islands, Protection in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Okinawa, Japan). I. Investigation of Coral Status for the Base of Stephanie FRIED* Stakeholders Discussion P.O. Box 520, Waimanalo, Hawai`i United States of America Hisashi MATSUMOTO*, Kenji KAJIWARA [email protected] 4377 Karimata, Hirara, Okinawa 906-0002 Japan [email protected] This paper explores the political ecology of marine protection efforts in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands which comprise the most remote archipelago on Yabiji Reef, an isolated patch reef group consisting of about 100 table and earth. This largely uninhabited region of spectacular biodiversity is located platform reefs in a 10 ? 6.5 km area, is located at the northern offing of Miyako where little fishing occurs, where clear scientific evidence exists for strong Island. Two shipment services have been operating landing tours at Yabiji Reef protection measures, and where there is tremendous public support for such since 1983. They carry about 2,000 or 3,000 tourists by large ferries, and land measures. In theory, this should be a simple region in which to establish a them onto reefs during the ebb of spring tide, for about 3 days in April. marine protected area. In 1909, U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt issued an Although significant disturbance is expected from this activity, the Japanese executive order designed to protect the NWHI. By the mid-1970s, however, legal system has almost no legistation on reef conservation. The Hirara City significant NWHI lobster populations had been discovered. Over the following local government in Miyako, has been promoting a conservation project against decades, more than 10 million lobster and close to 200 species of bycatch were the landing tour issue since 1998. Hirara City established a conservation policy removed from the ecosystem by a small number of vessels, operating far in to investigate the reef status and promote stakeholders discussion towards excess of “maximum sustainable yield” estimates. At the same time, the sustainable reef use. There were almost no objective information about Yabiji population of the highly endangered Hawaiian monk seal (Monachus Reef, regarding biological aspects, tourism situations and even the schauinslandi) plummeted and juveniles were found starving and emaciated in topographical chart. As the first step, Hirara City investigated reef coral fauna their NWHI breeding grounds. In response to public concerns, almost a century at Yabiji Reef in 1998-2000, and has been monitoring the growth of the coral after Roosevelt’s protection efforts, U.S. President William Clinton issued community since 1998. The investigated area of coral fauna was limited within executive orders in 2000 and 2001 designed to further protect the NWHI the range from reef edge to reef flat, however 13 families, 37 genera and 174 through the establishment of the 340,000 km2 Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve, species of reef building corals were observed. Yabiji Reef could be divided into the largest protected area under U.S. jurisdiction.This paper explores the factors 5 faunas based on the composition of coral species. It suggests the various (including leadership by Hawaiian cultural-rights activists, local fishers, and environments exist within of Yabiji Reef, which might assist decision making community-based non-governmental organizations, backed by experienced about reef use with a zoning system. But coral growth data also shows non- scientists and key political figures) that have, to date, supported protection anthropogenic disturbance exists over the corals on reef flats, thus the efforts for this vast and fragile ecosystem. It also explores those factors anthropogenic disturbance must be reduced to the utmost. (including national political actors, the politics of science, and the corrosive impact of entrenched conflicts of interest) that weigh against the establishment of meaningful protection measures for the NWHI.

393 10th ICRS Critical Appraisal of Local, Customary, Participatory and Co-management Poster 4-8

Improving Management of Small Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) through Networking and Integration of Participatory and Co-management Frameworks Severino G SALMO III*, Porfirio M ALINO, Ma Antonette R JUINIO-MENEZ, Liana TALAUE-MCMANUS The Marine Science Institute, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines [email protected], [email protected]

The networking of fourteen small marine protected areas (MPA; average size of fifteen hectares) in the four adjoining municipalities of Bolinao, Anda, Bani and Alaminos City (Lingayen Gulf, northwestern Philippines) as a strategy to improve MPA management is presented. The management frameworks of these MPAs are generally categorized into two: community-based (in the case of Bolinao and Anda), and is managed primarily by community-based or peoples organizations; and co-management (in the case of Bani and Alaminos), and is a joint undertaking between the local government units (LGU) and the peoples organizations. These frameworks underwent different establishment process and have different implementation mechanisms. The former capitalizes on community empowerment and strengthening of community-based institutions while the latter relies on the duly delegated mandate of LGUs in performing administrative and resource-use regulatory functions. Both management frameworks have varying levels of accomplishments and success. However, all MPAs encountered trans-municipal/city boundary problems. Most prominent of which are poaching and encroachment of fishers from other municipalities/city, unclear delineation of management units of each municipal/city governments, and incoherent management plans. To address this problem, the MPA managers from the four municipalities/city initiated the networking of MPAs at two levels: within their municipal/city waters; and among municipal/city governments. MPA networking facilitates the integration of management frameworks and fosters critical collaboration among MPA managers. More importantly, networking helps in systematizing and improving MPA management through sharing and drawing of lessons among sites, cross-site visits, facilitating inter-LGU patrolling, and facilitating the formation of an inter-LGU MPA management council. This case study therefore aims to present and evaluate the accomplishments, and draw lessons and recommendations in facilitating the networking of small MPAs over a five-year period (1998-2003).

Clan versus Community-based Marine Management Practices in Melanesia Mark SOLON*, Chris TUMI P.O.Box 697, Kimbe. West New Britain Province. Papua New Guinea [email protected]

This paper critically highlights issues relating to clan or community-based traditional marine management practices in Melanesia, with particular reference to Papua New Guinea (PNG). A clan is defined as a group of families with the same ancestral origin, and a community is defined as a group of clans using a common dialect and living in a particular area. The clan-based management approach to conserving coastal marine resources may prove to be more effective than the community-based approach, because in the former, sustainable use and protection over the resources involves group effort and commitment from the clan members as they (clan members) as they realize the scarcity of the clan owned resources and the need their is for the protection of these resources for the generations to come. In the latter, sustainable resource utilization and conservation in most cases, is a concern for only a few number of people, most probably due to larger resource base, increased population and economic pressures being experienced by the community members. Several case studies from PNG will be presented that discuss the strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and conflicts for the two management approaches, and will highlight future implications for effective conservation and management of coastal resources by local peoples as well as conservation groups.

394 Poster 4-14 Modeling and Decision Support 10th ICRS

Reefs at Risk in the Caribbean - Information to Support Priority Setting Reefmodel: an Agent-based Model for Exploring the Effects of Coral Reef and Management Biodiversity Changes on Fisheries Yield Jon MAIDENS*, Lauretta BURKE Andre Jon UYCHIAOCO, Rollan C GERONIMO*, May T LIM, Johnrob Y 10 G Street NE, Washington DC 20002 USA BANTANG, Edgardo D GOMEZ [email protected] Velasquez St., Diliman, Quezon City 1101 Republic of the Philippines [email protected] Coral reefs are highly valuable resources in the Caribbean, providing a wide range of goods and services and supporting many economic activities and The quantitative contribution of biological diversity to ecological function is livelihoods. There is considerable activity in the region focused on assessment poorly known beyond experimental grassland and microbial communities. and monitoring of coral reefs, but, surprisingly, information is still fairly Biodiversity is not easy to quantify beyond a limited few taxa and is even more limited, and not well consolidated. Currently lacking are comprehensive data difficult to experimentally manipulate. Because of the lack of studies and sets on status of, threats to, and protection of coral reefs for the Wider extensive data required to assess and quantify the effects of biological diversity Caribbean region. The Reefs at Risk in the Caribbean project is a collaborative on reef ecological functions particularly on fisheries yield, and the tempo- effort which integrates available information coral reef locations, observed spatial limitations in conducting experiments to directly measure such impacts to coral reefs, and changes in condition. The project then attempts to relationship, an agent-based model of a hypothetical coral reef ecosystem, fill in some data gaps through inferential modeling of threats to coral reefs from ReefModel, was designed and built based on some simple relationships and human activities, including coastal development, pollution and sediment from assumptions. Developed using RePast, ReefModel is composed of 2 interacting land-based sources, and overfishing. Data from remote sensing are used by layers: a cellular-automata reef bottom and an agent-based simulation of fishes project partners to develop coral reef maps; to map changes in land cover which and invertebrates. The reef bottom provides the environment on which the feed into a watershed-based analysis of sediment threat; and to estimate extent agents live; while the agents mediate the competition between the components of sediment plumes in coastal waters. Spatial and hydrologic modeling are of the reef bottom. Corals and algae compete for empty spaces using implemented using a geographic information system (GIS) to evaluate degree straightforward spatial rules. Above this lattice, agents sense, move, feed, of threat to coral reefs from human activities. Results show significant grow, and reproduce. During reproduction, the genome traits of a parent agent differences in level of threat, nature of threat, and coral reef condition across are mutated by a certain factor for each of its offspring. This provides the the region. The threat indicators are used as input to an economic valuation of variability among individuals and also simulates evolution which is needed to coral reefs where the sustainable value of healthy reefs is compared to the value generate sufficient diversity of agents. The model is first run through an of degraded reefs (using the threat scenarios evolutionary phase wherein initial parameters and values are fed into the model and then run for a long period to generate the necessary “agents" pool. In the ecological phase fisher agents selectively fish high biomass cells. Several simulations for the ecological phase are run at different initial levels of diversity (i.e. at 100%, 10%, and 1% of the diversity generated at the evolutionary phase). The resulting target fish biomasses are then translated to economic values.

Biodiversity and Trophic Functioning of a Mexican Caribbean Fringing Effective Search and Mapping of Coral Reef Information Reef System: Stability and Degration Steven H WONG, Peter THOMPSON, Sandra L AGUILAR*, Hongli LUO, Fabian A RODRIGUEZ-ZARAGOZA, Enrique NUNEZ-LARA, Doug HARPER, Mei-Ling SHYU Roberto C HERNANDEZ-LANDA, Hector RODRIGUEZ-SANCHEZ, 75 VIRGINIA BEACH DRIVE, MIAMI, FLORIDA United States of America Jesus E ARIAS-GONZALEZ* [email protected] Km 6 Antigua Carretera a Progreso, A.P. 73, Cordemex, C.P. 97310, Merida, Documents and datasets related to coral reef research, management and Yucatan, Mexico outreach are voluminous. The efficient and effective mechanism for search, [email protected] visualize, and query the information is critical to the success of activities The Mexican Caribbean fringing Reef system is located along the eastern coast intended for the conservation of coral reef ecosystems. We have developed a of the Yucatan Peninsula. Coral reefs are distributed in a semi-continuous web-based coral reef database and mapping system to facilitate scientific barrier stretch along 400 km of coast. The systems exhibit a gradient of reef research, project coordination, and the outreach to the general public for the complexity, which increases from North to South, due to the continental shelf coral reef ecosystem research and management. The system functions as an geomorphology. In terms of human uses, it can be divided into three regions: 1. information repository, search engine, and mapping tool. Users of the system Tourist region located in the North; 2. Reserve region located in the Center are able to actively upload/download contents; schedule and share events; (Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve -SKBR area); Fishing region located in the search documents, data and metadata; and visualize/query datasets with a GIS South from the southern limit of SKBR to Belizean Border. The human uses (Geographic Information System) interface. The contents in the system include have impacted and degraded coral reefs in different ways. The main objective is news, announcements, presentations, reports, data, metadata, images, and web to identify how human uses affect the biodiversity and reef stability in links. One of the main features of our system is its capability to search functioning (i.e. biomass, net production, resiliency, etc.) We have performed a information based on attributes from both the metadata and data. This spatial multi-scale survey desing on 13 coral reefs distributed along Mexican capability overcomes the limitation imposed by conventional metadata search Caribbean coast. Each reef was divided into 4 habitats: lagoon, front, slope and engines and database management systems. With the conventional search terrace. From apriory nested analisys of variance (nesAnova) we obtained mechanism, finding information based on attributes from both the metadata and similar reef habitats within the three mentioned regions. We constructed a mass data contents may take multiple steps. However, it can be done in a single balance models for three nested slope habitats to describe its trophic search in our application that is based on an Internet file system.An Internet functioning. Models were developed from fish abundance obtained directly map server is integrated with the Internet file system so that data files from the from reefs and considering a top-down control. Afterward, we modeled the search results or from the file folders (accessible on web browsers) can be stability in function of persystense, resilience and resistance of the systems selected for visualization and query within a GIS interface. Researchers have from mass balance models. Biodiversity results were correlated with stability been using the system to effectively conduct investigations, coordinate projects, and other trophic macro-descriptors to determine how human uses influence and outreach to the general public on a wide range of coral reef subjects. coral reef ecosystems stability and degradation.

395 10th ICRS Fostering Positive Change for Coral Reefs - Education Resources Poster 4-24

Coral Reef Ed-Ventures: An Environmental Education Program for Coral Reef Survey and Monitoring for Management in Central Sulawesi, School Children in Belize Indonesia: Educational Aspects H Allen CURRAN*, Susan ETHEREDGE, Elizabeth CALLAGHAN, Samliok NDOBE*, Abigail M MOORE, Sofyan A YOTOLEMBAH, Harto Paulette PECKOL DARWINTO 98 Green Street, Northampton, Massachusetts 01063 United States of America Jl Tendean No 7, Palu 94111, Central Sulawesi Republic of Indonesia [email protected] [email protected]

Coral reefs, with their beauty and diversity of life, are fascinating to people of Yayasan Adi Citra Lestari (YACL) is a local NGO based in Palu, Central all ages. Healthy, well-managed reef systems are of great importance to coastal Sulawesi, a Province with over 2000 km of coastline and many small islands, communities in many tropical countries, but local knowledge of reef most fringed by coral reefs, with numerous barrier reefs and atolls. In 2000, ecosystems may be limited, and the study of coral reef ecology commonly is when YACL was a local partner in Reefs at Risk SE Asia, there was little or no not a part of school curricula. Nonetheless, coral reefs are an ideal topic for data for most reefs, and no locally based survey/monitoring capacity. YACL teaching even young school children about fundamental ecological and initiated a capacity building programme for coral reef survey and monitoring, environmental principles. As an outgrowth of the AGRRA Program to monitor including training in SCUBA and GCRMN methods. Supported by The David the health of coral reefs in Belize and in cooperation with the Hol Chan Marine & Lucille Packard Foundation, UNEP EAS/RCU, NOAA, PADI Project Reserve in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, students and faculty from Smith AWARE and the Reef Check Foundation, the result is a committed survey team College in Northampton, Massachusetts, USA, initiated the Coral Reef Ed- recruited from the local community. Substantial data has been collected and Ventures Program in summer 2000. Now in its 5th year, Smith College student submitted to local, national and international stakeholders. Examples of data teachers and up to 70 Belizean school children, ages 7 to 11, participate in an usage include planning for Pulau Pasoso and community development (YACL); intensive two-week, inquiry-based program to learn about coral reefs. The focus input to a data base for local Government (MCRMP); decision support for is on understanding the needs of a healthy reef ecosystem, how various creation/upgrading of three MPAs; materials for ICZM training, etc. One major organisms interact within the reef, threats to the reef, and how to conserve the challenge at the outset was a lack of training and other materials in Indonesian reef’s resources. Our instruction teaches marine science with a multi- language. YACL was forced to develop the ability to produce the materials disciplinary approach that includes literature, visual arts, and performing arts. needed. Initially, many training materials were produced. As the programme The curriculum has built-in flexibility, and the children are engaged in active, developed, outreach materials have become increasingly necessary. Existing hands-on classroom and field trip-based learning experiences. Daily program materials, most originally in English, have been adapted but many have been activities include demonstrations, experiments, crafts, games, local field trips, created in-house. A variety of media has been used - printed items such books, stories, and journal writing. Pre-and post-program questionnaires, completed by posters, forms, etc and audio-visual media such as video and other computer- the children, are used as assessment tools. Upon completion of the program, based presentations. A selection of materials produced and how they have been students are awarded Coral Reef Expert cards and Junior Ranger certificates by used is shown in this poster. Selected items will be available in limited the manager of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve at the Coral Reef Ed-Ventures numbers. Some have been or will shortly be made available via the YACL web- graduation ceremony. site, http://www.yacl-sulawesi.org.

Basic Educational Tools: Tabulation of Resources at the 10th ICRS Junior Park Ranger Program - Foster the Heart to Feel the Importance of Miguel A LUGO*, Carol FRETWELL the Familiar Sea of Coral Reef - 1305 East-West Hwy. SSMC4 Rm. 10126, Silver Springs, Maryland 20910 Takahiro OKANO*, Yoshiyuki SUZUKI United States of America 2-27 Yashima-Cho, Ishigaki-city, Okinawa-prefecture 907-0001 Japan [email protected] [email protected]

Having long recognized the need expressed in the description of Mini- The Ministry of the Environment has carried out the “Junior Park Ranger symposium “4-24, Fostering Positive Change for Coral Reefs — Educational Program (JPR)” as a joint program with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Resources,” the Outreach and Education Working Group of the U.S. Coral Reef Sports, Science and Technology for the purpose of developing the children’s Task Force proposes to offer its collective services from among those who will understanding and interest to the nature by making children experience the already be in attendance, to physically collect information and descriptions, in a work of National Park Ranger. International Coral Reef Research and log (database) form, of the educational resources promulgated and/or used by Monitoring Center (COREMOC) in Ishigaki Island has implemented the attendees of the ICRS, in particular, participants in the education mini- program of learning the relations between coral sea and the people in the symposium and exhibitors present. We are hopeful that an exhibitor (perhaps elementary school lessons.As for the children and their parents’ generation in NOAA, or the Waikiki Aquarium, or some other exhibitor) would contribute Ishigaki Island as well, the sea spreading out in front of them is “far” due to the space for a chair at one of their exhibits. Contributions have already been recent change of the lifestyle. JPR aims to remind children to be aware of the pledged for clipboards, pens, and time to create the “volunteer schedule.” importance of coral reefs and have pride to their familiar area by learning the Volunteers are still being sought to provide the keying-in of data into an abundance of coral reef, the relation with their life and the beauty.53 kids of electronic database (after the ICRS), to be posted and freely available on the two elementary school took part in the program in 2002 and 2003. They Working Group’s website, available for linking from other sites. The data surveyed the life in coral reef and tidal flat by snorkeling and exploratory collected would include short descriptions of the resource available, the extent research. At the end of the Program, they reported the result to the local to which it can be altered to fit local needs, any proprietary restrictions on use residents. In the program, the guidebook “Teachers Guide for Hands-on of the resource, availability (numbers and method of acquisition), and type of education on Coral Reef” compiled by COREMOC has used.JPR enabled the media being used. Additional information such as funding sources or avenues children to be deeply impressed by the beauty of coral seas by introducing the of revenue generation may also be collected. snorkeling program, which was hardly adopted by the regular curriculum on the safe side.JPR could be active together with our staff members who familiar with the environmental education and coral reef conferring with the school teachers who know their children’s understanding and growth.It is also very important for growing awareness in the region by children announcing their learning result to the adults of the area with their words.

396 Poster 4-24 Fostering Positive Change for Coral Reefs - Education Resources 10th ICRS

MOP: Extending Coral Reef Education Beyond Science Majors in Hawaii Frank G STANTON* 96-045 Ala Ike, Pearl City, HI United States of America [email protected]

The Marine Option Program (MOP) is a successful marine education program designed to integrate an awareness of the ocean environment into a wide range of college studies. Its strength is in fostering a positive attitude towards the coral reef environment of Hawaii in non-science degree programs. The program began in 1971 with the intent to allow any college student within the Univeristy system to learn more about the ocean by taking marine related courses, doing an independent project of their own choice, and participating in a wide network with other similarly interested students. Courses can be selected from a wide variety of programs including all the natural sciences, as well as art, engineering, journalism, law, economics, travel industry management, and Hawaiian studies. The MOP project is a customized experience for students to develop the links between their career and the marine environment. Projects take the form of internships with marine or career-related organizations, research projects, marine education projects, or even works of art and multi- media. Students become part of a network providing academic support, scholarships, job opportunities and social events that serve to foster an continuing interest in the ocean. Completion of the program results in a certificate that is included on the student’s academic record. MOP graduates have moved on with careers in government, business, and education taking with them a greater awareness of the coral reef environment.

397 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

The Status of Coral Reefs of Solomon Islands Status and Trend of Coral Reef Resources in the Marine Protected Areas Daniel C AFZAL*, Alec T HUGHES, Gregory P BENNETT, Peter RAMOHIA in Central Visayas, Philippines PO BOX 97, Gizo, Western Province, Solomon Islands Solomon Islands Joselito Francis A ALCARIA*, Solon D BAGALIHOG [email protected] DENR, Region 7, Banilad, Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines Papua New Guinea The Coral reefs of Solomon Islands are mainly narrow, fringing and [email protected] intermittently distributed. Some of the largest areas of coral reefs occur where there are large lagoon complexes variously protected by volcanic Islands, raised Central Visayas comprised the four island provinces of Cebu, Bohol, Negros islands, sand cays or by barrier reefs. They are recognized as having global Oriental and Siquijor in Central Philippines. Within these areas twelve marine biodiversity significance and relatively undisturbed marine ecosystems; and for sanctuaries are established. These marine sanctuaries are among the sites of their economical value in supporting the traditional subsistence economy and DENR 7, CEP maintained and managed by the communities. The monitoring commercial harvesting. In the Solomon Islands, coral reefs are coming under program of the coral reef resources within the CEP sites aimed to assess the ever increasing pressure from a suite of natural and anthropogenic impacts, status of the corals of the CEP sites through time; to determine the trend of the driven by increasing population growth, uncontrolled use of marine resources coral reef resources within the period of monitoring; and to assess the status of for subsistence and cash, large scale resource extraction, and recent coral the fish resources within the reef areas under the program.The live hard coral bleaching. Despite anecdotal evidence of the gradual decline of reef health and cover in the marine sanctuaries had decreased ranging from 1.11% to 90.66% despite calls for improve of management, there is little coordinated scientific from 1997 to 1998. The highest decline among the ten marine sanctuaries was data on the coral reefs of Solomon islands and the effects of the impacts. observed in Sulangan marine sanctuary registering 90.66% in 1998. Other Research and monitoring to date has been on an ad hoc basis with little sanctuaries like Apo Island and Lomboy have continuously declined in % live coordination or standardization at the national level. The ethnic conflicts in coral cover from 1997 to 1999. Fish population density in Apo marine 2000-2002 have hindered coral reef monitoring and research. In 2003 a sanctuary dropped significantly during the 1998 monitoring while other sites partnership involving Government, Non-Government Organizations, research have high fish population density. Although the fish densities in some Institutions and the commercial sector established the Solomon Islands Coral sanctuaries have decreased but not as much as the data gathered from Apo. Reef Monitoring Network. The network has surveyed representative reef sites Marine sanctuaries in Tulapos and Apo including Zaragosa were found to have and conducted GCMRN and Reef Check Training programs for partners and more number of fish species recorded compared to other sites in the region in community members. In this paper we present the first standardized data from terms of the number of species. In the later part of the project implementation, the coral reefs of Solomon Islands. We look at scenarios for the future statues two marine sanctuaries in Negros Oriental were monitored since 1999 and were of coral reefs and marine resources in the country and make recommendations found to have more species documented. Annual estimates of fish biomass in for their conservation and management most coral reef sites in the region are fluctuating and at declining trend.

Status and Management of Coral Reefs in the United Arab Emirates Status of Coral Reefs of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India Ashraf AL CIBAHY, Nasser AL SHAIBA* Jayakumar Balagurunathan ALFRED*, Krishnamoorthy VENKATARAMAN P.O. Box 45553, Abu Dhabi, UAE United Arab Emirates M BLOCK, NEW ALIPORE, KOLKATA 700 053 INDIA [email protected] [email protected]

Rapid economic development of the UAE over the last 30 years has been The Andaman and Nicobar group of Islands is located in the south east of the coupled with a dramatic increase in urbanization and associated infrastructure Bay of Bengal, between 6O-14O N latitude and 91O94O E longitude with 530 development. Anthropogenic influences represent another factor which adds to islands, of which only 38 are inhabited along with a number of exposed islets the stress of coral reefs. The coastal waters in particular that of Abu Dhabi are and rocks. Andaman and Nicobar has two Marine National Parks viz., Mahatma one of the most inhospitable environment for the coral growth where high Gandhi and Rani Jhansi Marine National Parks and Great Nicobar Biosphere seawater temperatures and salinities are close to or exceed the tolerance limits Reserve. The coral fauna is diverse when compared to other parts of India. of hermatypic corals.The offshore bank and patch reefs are estimated to have Today, among all the reefs in India, many areas in Andaman and Nicobar approximately 10% live coal cover on average. The poor development of these remain to be in near pristine condition (56 to 65% live coral). However, during reefs has been attributed to high sedimentation and temperature anomalles a recent survey of the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park area in South which cause mass mortalities of Acropora and other branching species. The Andaman, it was observed that siltation has caused mass mortality of corals at cycle of mortality, breakdown and re-growth inhibits framework accumulations. Tarmuguli and Hobday Island. The corals near old Wandoor area and The absence of a reef framework results in fragments being exported and Chidiatapu of South Andaman and Dugong creek and Hut Bay area of Little deposited elsewhere. Recruitment is delayed due to low number of survivors Andaman have died mainly due to siltation. 112 species of sponges, 1200 and recruits must settle on the original substratum. Consequently, no upward species of fish, 8 species of shark and spiny lobsters, dugongs, dolphins and sea growth of reef structure is achieved. Diversity in UAE in general is low (less turtles are some of major fauna reported from these islands. The Andaman and than 60 species) and many coral communities are dominated by monospecific Nicobar group of islands supports 177 species of scleractinian corals, 120 stands. Reef based tourism is limited, but reefs off the coast have proportionally species of algae, 70 species of sponges, 27 species of prawns, 30 species of crab high economic value in terms of fisheries. UAE has endorsed regional and along with lobster and barnacles. In recent days, a lot of construction and international agreements and has adopted federal laws, and local orders to developmental activities are going on in many areas of Andaman and Nicobar protect and develop living marine resources including coral reefs. This report Islands. Sand mining is the major activity that leads to destruction of coral represents the status of coral reefs, the existing conservation and monitoring reefs in many islands in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Invasion of crown of initiatives and key issues pertinent to their management. *Head of Marine thorn starfish (Acanthaster planchi) and White Band Disease are reported in Protected Areas, MERC E-mail: [email protected] Environmental many reefs in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Research and Wildlife Development Authority {ERWDA) P.O. Box 45553, Abu Dhabi, UAE

398 Poster 4-1 Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation 10th ICRS

Status of Coral Reefs in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Assessing Bioerosion Activities of Echinometra Sea Urchin on Nukubuco Khalid AL-SHAIKH*, Abdul Mohsen AL-SUFYANI, Friedhelm KRUPP Reef, Fiji P.O. Box 11071, Jubail 31961 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Subhashni D APPANA*, Veikila C VUKI [email protected] P.O.Box 8413, Nakasi, Fiji or P.O.Box 1168, Biology Department, The University of the South Pacific, Suva, Fiji The Saudi Arabian Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coasts are characterised by [email protected] complex tropical marine ecosystems including a wide range of reef types, such as coral cays, fringing, platform, patch and barrier reefs, with a life hard coral Bioerosion is a major factor influencing reef construction and morphology. Sea cover averaging 20-50 %. Threats from human activities, such as industrial and urchins are major bioeroders of coral reefs and the calcium carbonate condition urban development, oil exploration, maritime transport, fishing and recreation, of coral reefs may reflect the abundance of sea urchins. The Echinometra spp. are presently localised, but increasing rapidly. Most reef areas along the Red are well known agents of large-scale bioerosion and have been the cause of reef Sea coast are still in a healthy condition. Red Sea and Gulf reefs were severely damage in the Caribbean, Eastern Pacific and Western Indian Ocean. By affected by the 1996 and 1998 bleaching events. Only reef areas along the Gulf burrowing into coral rocks they protect themselves from predators, wave and of Aqaba coast escaped bleaching. In the northern and central Red Sea current action, and to some extent from desiccation at low tide. The bioerosion bleaching was patchily distributed and most reefs have recovered. In the rates of sea urchins, Echinometra sp. A (green-white-tipped) on Nukubuco reef southern Red Sea effects of bleaching were more widespread and severe, but was estimated by calculating the net carbonate accumulation. Cage experiments there are also signs of recovery. In contrast, all nearshore and many offshore 2 bioerosion rates (kg CaCO3/m /urchin/d) were 35-37 x 10-3 at the reef crest and reefs along the Saudi Arabian Gulf coast have died, with hardly any signs of 30-43 x 10-3 at the reef flat. It is clear that the Nukubuco reef balance between new recruitment by 2003. In response to these events Saudi Arabia has reef growth and reef destruction is shifting, with bioerosion becoming the developed a National Action Plan for Coral Reef Conservation, which focuses dominant process.KeywordsBioerosion, Bioaccretion, Echinometra sp. A, Net on improving the knowledge base about coral reef ecosystems in its territorial carbonate accumulation waters and reducing human-induced pressure. Coral reef surveys and limited monitoring activities are being carried out by King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, King Fahd University, Dhahran, and the National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development, Riyadh. Given the outstanding ecological and economic value of Saudi Arabian coral reefs, strengthening the human and institutional capacity for reef research, monitoring and management and the establishment of additional marine protected areas are of highest priority.

Status of Research on Coral Communities in Hong Kong SAR, China Living Coral Reef Resources of Sarawak, with Special Reference Kuching Put ANG JR.* Area Shatin, NT, Hong Kong SAR, China Hong Kong Daud AWANG*, Mohd Zakaria MOSHIDI, Abd Aziz MUDA [email protected] Institut Penyelidikan Perikanan Malaysia Sarawak, Jalan Perbadanan, Bintawa, 93744 Kuching, Sarawak Malaysia Hong Kong is located in subtropical region near the mouth of the Pearl River in [email protected] South China. No major reefs are formed but coral communities are found mainly in the eastern and northeastern coastal areas. Eighty four species of Belt transects surveys conducted on the reefs of Pulau Talang Talang Kecil and Scleractinian corals have recently been identified from Hong Kong waters and a Talang Talang Besar. The Line Intercept Transect Method was used to assess reference collection has now been set up. Various tertiary institutions have the distribution of coral reefs. This was a first scientific survey conducted research topics involving corals or coral communities. Recent on-going within this area. Study was carried out from April to September 2002. Around researches include studies on coral predation by corallivorous gastropods, 18 benthic were identified during the survey. Objective of this study is to bleaching, photosynthetic performance of corals as a response to coral algal identify the distribution of coral reef composition as a first database in Sarawak interactions, dynamic changes in coral community structures, coral with special reference Kuching area. Statistical Analysis, One-factor ANOVAs reproduction and recruitment, and changes in reef fish assemblages after showed that no significant difference in percentage of benthic between Pulau designation of Tung Ping Chau as a marine park and Cape D’Aguilar as a Talang Talang Kecil and Besar (P>0.05), which the P-value was 0.59. marine reserve. Several monitoring programmes are in place. These include monitoring on corals, fish, and marine flora in Tung Ping Chau and Hoi Ha Wan Marine Parks and corals in Yan Chau Tung Marine Park. Reefcheck is also an annual event sponsored by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department of the Hong Kong SAR Government and participated by more than 20 groups of volunteers. In 2003, Reefcheck covered 30 sites around Hong Kong. It is providing very useful information on the general health conditions of coral communities in Hong Kong waters.

399 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

Present Status of Unique Turbid Reefs in Gulf of Kutch, the First Marine Recent Mortality and Other Health Conditions of the Sea Fan Gorgonia National Park in India and Poshetra, its Sanctum Sanctorum and ventalina in Santa Marta, Colombian Caribbean, 15 Years after a Mass Strategies for their Sustainable Development Mortality Event Anandkumar AYYASWAMY*, Satyanarayana CH, Alfred J R B Sonia BEJARANO*, Nelson A MANRIQUE, Jaime GARZON-FERREIRA Zoological Survey of India, M-Block, New Alipore, Kolkata-700 053, INDIA. Cerro Punta Betin, Santa Marta, Magdalena Republic of Colombia Republic of India [email protected] [email protected] Coral reef degradation has taken place worldwide increasingly during last Gulf of Kutch, the first Marine National Park in India is unique and fragile, decades, apparently along with growing human populations and their inevitable because of its location in the dry tropical monsoon climate, large semi-diurnal unbalancing impacts on coastal regions. A sign of such degradation at many amplitudes, high velocity water currents, high sediment input, negative water Caribbean localities including Colombian reef areas is complete population balance. Out of the 42 islands present 34 are with coral reefs in the southern decimation of gorgonian sea fan Gorgonia ventalina. Today, 15 years after Kutch. It is also tectonically unstable and raising at a rate of 1.3cm per year. A mass mortality of this formerly conspicuous coral reefs dweller, exact causes recent earthquake took a toll of more than 50000 human lives. The biota is remain merely hypothesized and no population health assessments have been subjected to constant stress. Biodiversity is less documented, attributable to the performed. This study was developed to contribute to this critical lack of information and also on the way to compare current situation with a series of unfavorable conditions prevailing. Only 37 species of hard corals belonging to assessments carried before mass mortality (1987) and eight years later (1995) at 24 genera are documented a decade back. Branching corals like Acropora, Santa Marta area (Colombian Caribbean). Sea fan habitats were extensively Pocillopora have become extinct. It is studded with and threatened by explored during 2003 and 120 60m2 belt transects were surveyed at 20 shallow industries dealing with Salt, Cement, Chemical, Ship building and mostly sites to determine incidence of mortality, diseases and other health conditions Industries dealing with importing of Petroleum products due to its proximity to on remaining populations. Sea fan skeletons accounted for more than 90% of Gulf countries. Tourism is also at its peak because of its historical significance. colonies at various sites, revealing the presence of former luxuriant populations Poshetra the Sanctum sanctorum of Kutch is significant because of the presence unknown until today. Conditions threatening actual recovering populations of more number of submerged reefs with high biological diversity; good growth were classified as recent mortality, predation, diseases and fouling by algae or of mangroves, breeding and nursery ground for many shell and finfish and is a invertebrates. While mean incidence of the fungal disease aspergillosis was remarkably low (1.3±4.6 %colonies) and other diseases were absent from the treasure chest of fossils. This valuable section of Kutch is under threat due to a study area, striking abundance of gastropod predators occurred (32.8±4.4 to proposal to construct a port. Surveys carried out by Zoological Survey of India 7.5±4.4 %colonies). Grazing activity of some species provided considerable to assess the quantitative and qualitative status of scleractinian fauna of Kutch amount of available substrate for algae and invertebrate colonization, while not only exposed significant observations related to Ecosystem diversity and other colonizers overgrew sea fan living tissue either causing direct partial Faunal (Hard coral, Associated & Vertebrate) diversity but also its importance mortality or not. Valuable quantitative data and detailed descriptions are in relation to the fisheries and fossil deposits. The study exposes the very provided for various mortality sources previously reported sporadically. A sensitive ecological, social and economic status of the reefs and answers many comprehensive analysis of the way they interact and endanger persistence of unanswered questions. It aims at formulation of effective strategies for this vulnerable species is presented as base for future research initiatives and for sustainable development. generation of species and habitat conservation strategies.

Changes in the Coral Reef Community Seven Years after a Mass Mortality Coral Reefs Monitoring in the French Caribbean Islands (Martinique, Event in Morrocoy, Venezuela Guadeloupe, Saint-Barthelemy) Carolina BASTIDAS*, Aldo CROQUER, David BONE Claude BOUCHON*, Yolande BOUCHON-NAVARO, Max LOUIS, CCS 90050, PO Box 025323, Miami FL 33102-5323 USA Republic of Pedro PORTILLO Venezuela B.P. 592, Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe (France) [email protected] [email protected]

Playa Caiman (CAI, Parque Nacional Morrocoy PNM) was monitored from The coral reefs of the French Caribbean Islands (Martinique, Guadeloupe, 1993 to 1996 as part of the CARICOMP program. In 1996, abnormal Saint-Barthelemy) have been monitored since 1999. Benthic communities as oceanographic conditions affected all marine communities in the park. At CAI, well as reef fish assemblages were surveyed on a biannual pattern. Coral hard coral cover declined from 40 to 3%, and this site was dropped from the coverage remained stable on the stud ied period, whereas the algal assemblages CARICOMP program. We assessed the changes in the coral community seven (macro-agal, turf and cyanobacteria) exhibited important seasonal variation years after this event using the same protocol on the ten fixed transects which render the monitoring necessarily pluriannual.Reef fish communities had previously monitored. Comparisons among data from March 1993, January very variable patterns according to the location in the di fferent islands and 1996 and August 2003, showed that living cover of sessile taxa recovered to showed strong seasonal variations. In all the studied areas, the number of existing levels prior to the mortality (68% ±5 SE vs. 60% ±6 SE; p>0.05). species, the number of fishes and their total biomass were higher during the dry When excluding encrusting octocorals (Erythropodium spp. and Briareum sp.), season (February to July). Fish communities become richer during that period, however, the living cover declined from 62% in 1996 (±4, SE) to 34% (±5, SE) due to the recruitment of the fish juveniles, which mainly occurs during that in 2003. The hard coral cover was significantly lower in 2003 than in 1996 period. (2.5% ±0.67 vs. 43% ±5). Thus, although there was a recovery in living cover, there are proportionally more encrusting octocorals, and less hard corals in 2003 than in 1996. In 2003, we observed 272 recruits (colonies <5 cm in diameter) for an overall density of 1.4 recruits/m2. Although hard coral cover has not recovered, there is evidence of successful recruitment at CAI. Therefore, there must be either a strong post-recruitment mortality or a variable recruitment rate with less recruitment before 2003. The relative abundance of the new recruits differs from that of the adult community in 1996. This suggests that if the community eventually recovers with the current recruitment abundance and composition, it will have a different structure. Given the lack of increase in hard coral cover in the past seven years, the time scales for a recovery are difficult to foresee.

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Status of Coral Reefs of Peninsular and Eastern Malaysia The Status of Coral Reefs in Taiwan from 1997 to 2003 Annadel S CABANBAN*, Affendi YANG AMRI, Ridzwan ABDUL RAHMAN, Chien-Hsun CHEN*, Chang-Feng DAI, Keryea SOONG, Chaolun A CHEN, Yusri YUSUF, Badrul HUZAIMI TAJUDDIN Tung-Yung FAN, Hernyi HSIEH Sepangar Bay, Locked Bag 2073, 88999 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Room 424, Institute of Oceanography, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, [email protected] Taiwan, R.O.C. Taiwan [email protected] More information on the coral reefs in Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia has been gathered from 2000 to 2003 by the Marine Parks Centre, Department Taiwan is near the northern boundary where coral reefs can no longer form. The of Fisheries, Malaysia and Sabah Parks in collaboration with national and southern tip of the island and many offshore islands have well-developed international volunteers. Reef Check method was the main survey method and fringing reefs. However, corals form patchy communities rather than reefs sometimes complemented with manta tow surveys, exploratory dives, and along northern and northeastern coasts. Coral reefs in Taiwan are threatened by sampling species richness. In Peninsular Malaysia, coral reefs in Pulau Redang, typhoons, sedimentation, wastewater pollution, and destructive fishing. To Pulau Tioman, and Pulau Tinggi Marine Parks were surveyed in 2000 while the monitor the changes of coral reefs, we applied the ReefCheck protocol to coral reefs in Pulau Perhentian were in 2003 by Coral Cay Conservation, survey the reefs at 8 localities from 1997 to 2003. The percentage of hard coral Incorporated and researchers under the auspices of the Marine Parks Center. cover (HCC) among sites showed a wide range of variation and the average These Marine Parks are impacted by coral bleaching in 1998 and by ranged from 22.9 to 36.3% and 25.9 to 32.1% for reef flat and reef slope sedimentation, eutrophication, overfishing, and disturbance from anchors, respectively. There was no significant difference in HCC among years because diving, and snorkelling. In general, the coral reefs in the east coast of Peninsular both increasing and decreasing trends were observed. However, more sites at Malaysia are in better condition compared to the coral reefs in the west coast, reef slope showed a trend of HCC increasing and more sites at reef flat showed possibly due to higher sedimentation rates from coastal land development. In the trends of decreasing. This suggests that the reef flat habitat is possibly East Malaysia, more coral reef areas were surveyed by Greenforce, Singapore suffering more frequent or stronger disturbances. Moreover, 71% of the cases International Foundation, Sabah Parks, and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS). showing the trend of HCC decreasing were coupled with increasing of other Most reefs surveyed were assessed as disturbed by fish-bombing and overfished substrates such as bare rock, dead coral, or algae. The abundances of fish and but have high diversity of corals, fishes, and algae. Malaysia has some coral invertebrate indicators were at low levels suggesting that most reefs were under reefs with excellent coral cover although many areas have reduced coral cover. the stress of overfishing. The results of trend analysis indicate that seven-years’ Individual surveys were done quite extensively but temporal and spatial survey is not sufficient to reveal the trend of coral reef change and a long-term comparison of coral cover is challenging as various methodologies were used monitoring program of more than 10 years is required. A combination of coral and only few permanent transects were monitored consistently. In conclusion, cover data and growth forms may also provide better resolutions to reveal the coordinated surveys and planned monitoring are needed to provide accurate status of coral reefs. assessment of the status of the coral reefs. An attempt to address this need was initiated by the Borneo Marine Research Institute, UMS in May, 2002 with funding from the Department of Environment, Japan.

Coral Conservation in Hong Kong Status of Singapore Coral Reefs Alan L K CHAN*, K CHAN Loke-Ming CHOU* 7/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543. Republic of Singapore Kowloon, Hong Kong [email protected] [email protected] The coral reefs of Singapore are located in one of the busiest harbours of the world, and are exposed to a variety of anthropogenic impacts. The most Hong Kong is located at the northern edge of the tropical Indo-Pacific region widespread impact is sedimentation, particularly over the past four decades. It and experiences a sub-tropical climate. Corals in Hong Kong do not form extensive reef system. Instead, they form scattered fringing coral communities resulted in a steady decline in live coral cover since monitoring commenced in along the coasts. Despite the geographical constraint, the coral fauna and the 1987, and a reduction in the depth limit of scleractinians, from 10 to 6 metres. associated marine life in Hong Kong are rich and diverse. There are 84 species Despite these ecological responses, reef biodiversity remains high. Only two of of scleractinian corals and over 300 reef-associated fish species recorded in the almost 200 scleractinian species recorded are believed to be locally extinct. Hong Kong waters.Coral communities in Hong Kong face various forms of The 1998 bleaching affected Singapore reefs on a scale not previously known. threats/ disturbance including coastal development, fishing and recreational Recruitment and growth continue to remain vigorous with major mass activities, etc. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department of the spawning events taking place in March or April. Such resilience helps to Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has put in place a series of measures support restoration activities, which are being investigated. and programmes which encompasses public education, monitoring, research, management and law enforcement to protect and conserve the coral communities in Hong Kong. We have organized a range of educational and publicity activities to enhance public understanding of the importance of protecting the marine environment and coral communities. Active monitoring is conducted at major coral sites through annual coral surveys Reef Check. We also undertake comprehensive coral studies to extend our knowledge and baseline information on coral communities in Hong Kong for sound and adaptive management. To protect coral communities from anchor damage, coral marker buoys have been installed at sensitive coral areas where recreation pressure is high. Underwater monitoring results indicate that damages to corals caused by boating activities have been significantly reduced following the installation of marker buoys. We have designated four marine parks and one marine reserve for protection and conservation of important marine ecological systems, including coral communities. Feasibility studies are underway to identify more suitable areas for marine parks designation. A comprehensive and direct regulatory framework is established in Hong Kong for the protection of coral communities.

401 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

Software to Aid Reporting Monitoring Data The Venezuelan Coral Reef Monitoring Network (VCRMN): Summary of Greg COLEMAN, Ian MILLER, Kate OSBORNE, Hugh SWEATMAN* Activities during the 2003 PMB 3, Townsville MC, Queensland 4810 Australia Aldo CROQUER*, Carolina BASTIDAS, Eduardo KLEIN, Martina KURTEN [email protected] Sartenejas,Caracas,Miranda Republic of Venezuela [email protected] Many monitoring programs commit by far the greatest part of their efforts and resources to collecting data, though the effectiveness of a program ultimately In 2003, the INTECMAR (Universidad Simon Bolivar) and the Global Coral depends heavily on analysis and reporting. Two pieces of software used by the Reef Monitoring Network for South America (STA-GCRMN) conducted a AIMS Long-Term Monitoring Program streamline reporting. (1) The series of monitoring activities in Venezuela. Four new coral coral reef sites Reportwriter program calls up text from previous reports from an Oracle were stablished to improve the monitoring capabilities of the country. database and provides a window in which to enter updated text into a database Madrizqui (MDQ)and Dos Mosquises (DMS) are located in the Archipelago of table. It also gives access to standard summary graphs and to other graphs Los Roques, whereas Cayo Norte (CNOR) and Caiman (CAI) are in the showing results for the individual taxa that underlie the summaries. The text Morrocoy National Park area.In this work we present a comparison among and the standard summary graphs can then be exported as Acrobat files for these sites and with other Venezuelan and Caribbean coral reefs in terms of the printing or to HTML for web presentation. (2) As part of the broad scale sessile benthic community, the incidence of coral disease (both following the surveys of reef perimeters, observers fill in a multiple choice questionnaire CARICOMP methodology), and the fish community structure (using AGRRA concerning the general characteristics of each quadrant of the survey reefs. and REEF methodologies).The scleractinean coral cover differed significanlty Drawing these questionnaire entries from a database, a second program (p<0.01) among sites (CNOR = 50.3%, DMS = 47.3%, MDQ = 18.2%, CAI = constructs text to describe each quadrant of each survey reef. These 1.4%). Interestingly, a site from the heavily affected nearshore reefs of the automatically generated descriptions are linked to aerial photographs of the Morrocoy area had the highest coral cover among these sites. The coral cover in reefs on the AIMS Monitoring web page (see www.aims.gov.au/reef- Cayo Norte and Dos Mosquises are among the highest values recently reported monitoring). in Venezuelan coral reefs (e.g. Morrocoy = 30-45% , Mochima bay = 2-40%, Cienaga de Ocumare = 6.3-34.5% , etc) and also above for certain Caribbean coral reefs (e.g. Colombia = 35%, Curacao = 35.9%, Bonaire = 30%, etc). A total of 96 species of fishes were identified during the surveys performed in all sites. The total densities varied from 2.5 ind/m2 (Cayo Norte) followed by Dos Mosquises (2.3 ind/m2) Caiman (2.1 ind/m2) and Madrizqui (1.53 ind/m2). The total incidence of coral diseases ranged from 2.66% (Madrizqui) to 15.11% (Cayo Norte), being the most common across sites, the yellow blotch syndrome (1.38-12.95%), white plague disease (1.32-3.97%) and dark spots syndrome (0.33-1.32%). The addition on new sites located at the eastern Venezuelan mainland and the regular monitoring of these new sites will allow the consolidation of VCRMN in the short-term.

Status of Coral Communities in Hong Kong, 2004 Climate Change?, Mass Fish Deaths, Livelihoods and the Status of Coral Andrew S CORNISH*, Denise MCCORRY Reefs in Nauru in 2004 Pokfulam Road Hong Kong Margo DEIYE*, Reuben SULU [email protected] Nauru Kiribati [email protected] Much can be learnt from Hong Kong, where coral communities lie alongside Mass fish deaths were recorded in Nauru between October to December 2003. one of the most densely populated cities on the planet. As a result of a sub- The majority of the fish that were dying seemed to be the coral reef fish species. tropical climate and a complex hydrology predominately influenced by Coincident with the fish deaths was a certain level of coral bleaching. This estuarine conditions to the west, corals primarily occur as shallow non-reefal paper reports on the mass fish deaths, possible causes of such an uncommon coral communities in eastern waters. Research into these communities has been phenomenon and the state of the coral reefs after the mass fish deaths. fairly extensive since the first quantitative studies in the late 1970s but only a few programmes consist of on-going monitoring of multiple sites. One of these, ReefCheck has been carried out since 1997 as this global initiative was piloted in Hong Kong. Coordination of ReefCheck was taken over by the government in 2000 and it is now their primary coral monitoring programme with 32 sites surveyed in 2003. Additional recent and more focused studies have found higher coral diversity than previously known, with 85 scleractinian species now recorded. The available data suggest that although corals are under considerable natural stress and have been eliminated from some areas due to additional impacts from reclamation and pollution, most coral communities today are holding their own, as indicated by a high number of species and coral cover. Persistence and survival is due to natural resilience and partly to chance, as eastern waters which support most corals are away from centers of development, buffered by country parks and protected in Marine Parks. In addition, government has placed an increasing emphasis on minimizing disturbance to corals, including the creation of no-anchoring zones. However, reef fish populations show severe signs of overfishing, something the creation of Marine Parks has done little to address.

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Induction of Heat Shock Protein 70 in the Coral Reefs of the Persian Gulf The Status of Coral Reefs in Brazil Exposed to Natural Environmental Stressors Beatrice P FERREIRA*, Mauro MAIDA, Tamara M D’AMICO, Ana P PRATES, Peyman EGHTESADI-ARAGHI, A. MAGHSOUDLOO* Clovis B CASTRO, Debora O PIRES, Fabiana C CAVA, Sergio M REZENDE, #9, Etemeadzadeh St., Fatemi Ave, P.O.Box 14155-4781, Tehran, Iran Danilo MARX, Caroline FEITOZA, Fabiana B CESAR [email protected] , [email protected] Av. Arquitetura s/n., Campus universitario, Recife, cep 29060-900, Pernambuco, Brazil During the past two decades, coral reefs have experienced extensive [email protected] degradation worldwide. Coral reef communities of the Persian Gulf has also suffered from a severe decline of populations in the last decade in this region Coral reefs in Brazil are distributed along 3,000 km of the Brazilian which is subjected to natural and human-made environmental pressures. This Northeastern coast, and represent the only coral reef ecosystem in the South area is a semi-enclosed marginal sea with harsh conditions for the marine Atlantic. In 2002, the Brazilian Institute of Environment funded a pilot project organisms, especially coral reef communities with regard to salinity, to assess the status of conservation of Brazilian reefs using the global methods temperature and extreme low tides. Coral bleaching and mortality have been of Reef Check. Six representative regions of Brazilian reefs, between latitudes associated with elevated seawater temperature and elevated air temperature 3° and 18°S, were chosen for the assessment, including four coastal areas, one during periods of aerial exposure. Also, widespread coral mortality and limits oceanic island and one atoll. The selected reefs were located inside the of distribution coral species in areas such as Florida, Panama and Hawaii have boundaries of marine protected areas of the two main types established in also been related to temperature stress. We have studied the application of the Brazil: fully protected and of sustainable use, where extraction is allowed. heat shock protein (HSP) expression in the coral reefs as a biomarker for Intensity of use in this last category was variable, largely depending on local environmental stress and forerunner of coral community destruction. In this conditions such as human population densities and management regimes. From way the activity of repairing enzymes has been determined and also the March 2002 to April 2003 reef check surveys were conducted along 192 antibodies to cnidarian Hsp70, cnidarian Hsp60, and cnidarian Cu/Zn transects distributed in several areas and sites within this regions. A geographic superoxide dismutase has been applied for HSP determination. Our results information system was build using LANDSAT imagery. Reef check methods indicate that corals that experienced this environmental stress had higher HSP were adapted so to fit local requirements while permitting collection of the (chaperonin) levels and protein same basic data. Hard coral cover varied between 5 to 35%. Higher cover was found at Abrolhos reefs and in some areas of Fernando de Noronha. Specific hard coral composition varied between regions, with lower diversity of corals registered at northern reefs. Indicator species of fish, including Lutjanids, Scarids, Serranids and ornamental species were significantly less abundant in areas were fishing and collecting were allowed. The same pattern was observed for commercially exploited species of lobster and octopus. Larger species of groupers were generally absent of all areas with very few exceptions. In the summer of 2003 a synchronized event of bleaching was registered. This is the first large scale event registered and shows the importance of large scale monitoring in Brazil.

Coral Reefs in the State of Kuwait Management and Media Muna N FARAJ*, Eiman K MOHAMMED, Hani A AL-TAMIMI Marcos GEKTIDIS* P.o. Box 24395 Safat, Kuwait 13104 State of Kuwait 28 D-91054 Erlangen Federal Republic of Germany [email protected] [email protected]

The coral reefs of Kuwait are the most northerly in the world. They are located Management and MEDIAManagement of coral reef ecosystems has one goal: in the southern region of the marine environment of Kuwait in a relatively high To keep reefs healthy and alive. The ongoing destruction of nature has turned turbidity and extreme environmental conditions which limit their development. the protection of our natural resources into the most important task of this new Coral reefs in Kuwait are either found as platforms, patches or fringing coral century. If coral reef scientists and managers fight this war without public assemblages. The most developed coral reefs are those associated with Kubbar, notice, they have lost it already. The publication of scientific papers is not Qaru and Um Almaradim islands. About 35 scleractinian coral species have enough any more. Public pays science - in times of low economies a hard job. been recorded in Kuwait, 29 species are hermatypic and 6 species are But nature cannot wait for a positive market. The worst destructions of natural ahermatypic. About 124 species of coral associated fishes were recorded in the ressources happended in times of recovering economies. The most powerful coral reefs; they constitute about 35 percent of the total number of fish species public media are visual media. Without doubt, television reaches more people (337 species) recorded in Kuwait. Among the coral associated fishes there are a than any other source of information. It is therefore a logical step to integrate number of commercially important species. Environment Public Authority television media in coral reef management. This talk will provide a media (EPA) has the mandate for the protection of the environment and the training for scientists, devoted to the management and protection of marine conservation of natural resources and biodiversity. EPA has recently proposed a coastal ecosystems. Last years cruise of the german research vessel legislation for designating a system of protected areas, among these areas are all POLARSTERN to the endangered deep-water reefs off Ireland serves as an the coral reefs in Kuwait. Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) has example of close cooperation between science and media. During three weeks been conducting coral reef researches and studies. EPA is currently in the of filming, enough footage was shot to produce 3 television shows and 3 process of building its capacity for coral reefs conservation, monitoring and movies for festivals. A one page story in a major german newspaper was management in cooperation with national, regional and international another product of this cruise. Additionally, on request, all scientists on board organizations and partners. were provided with footage for their personal use. The scientific struggle for the conservation of deep-water corals and their protection from trawling has been witnessed by millions of people. As a result, the implementation of one of the first deep-water marine sanctuaries by the EU is at hand. This is a direct result of the devotion of the leading scientist to this issue and their foresight to integrate media at an early stage of their project.

403 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

Status and Recovery of Palau's Reefs after the 1998 Bleaching Event Coral Reef Status in the Mamanucas Islands, Fiji: An Assessment of Three Yimnang GOLBUU*, Lolita PENLAND, David IDIP JR., Steven VICTOR, Years of Reef Check Data Carol EMAUROIS, Jim KOULECHAD, Masao UDUI, Ken OKAJI Simon P HARDING*, James COMLEY, Jean-Luc SOLANDT, P.O. Box 7086 Koror, Palau 96940 Republic of Palau Alastair R HARBORNE, Peter S RAINES [email protected] The Tower, 13th Floor, 125 High Street, Colliers Wood, London, SW19 2JG United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Palau launched a nationwide coral reef monitoring program in 2001. The [email protected] program consists of rapid assessment of reef habitats (spot checks) and detailed surveys of benthic organisms, fishes and coral recruitment. Spot checks were Since 2001, Coral Cay Conservation has undertaken an annual monitoring conducted at 217 sites around Palau to make qualitative record of coral cover, programme of the coral reef environment within the Mamanucas islands of Fiji major lifeforms and bottom substrates. Detailed surveys were also conducted at using a modified Reef Check method. As well as recording the standard data 14 permanent monitoring sites. Geographic balance, reef type, and potential required by Reef Check HQ, CCC divers collect further information on hard level of human impacts were considered in the selection of the sites. Data from corals (to lifeform and selected target genera or species) and a number of reef the spot checks shows that 87 percent of the sites surveyed have Acropora fish and invertebrate families. CCC volunteer divers are able to undertake the cover in the range of 0-5%. For non-Acropora corals, 68 percent of the sites more rigorous survey methods, through thorough training and testing before surveyed had coral cover lower than 25%. The results of detailed surveys show actual surveying begins.The data indicates that the region is continuing to that inner fringing reefs had the highest coral cover and patch reefs had the recover from the 2000 bleaching event with an increase in total hard coral cover lowest. This trend was evident at both 3 and 10-meter depth. For coral and a corresponding decrease in dead coral and reef rock substrata. A number recruitment, outside exposed reefs seem to have higher level of recruitment than of target groups have also been recorded often suggesting that the reef habitat is fringing or patch reefs. There is no correlation between coral cover and generally in a good condition. However, a assessment of new sites surveyed in recruitment. Based on the data collected so far, recovery of reefs is occurring 2003 suggest that tourist development may have impacted on shallow reef as evidenced by the presence of recruits and young juvenile corals at many of habitats around some of the smaller islands within the archipelago. The the monitoring sites. However, if we compare reefs that have pre and post- presence of dense beds of the macroalga Gracilaria may be related to elevated 1998 data, it is evident that the reefs have not fully recovered in terms of nutrient levels in nearshore waters. The potential causes of these extensive percent cover and species diversity. macroalgal beds are considered.

Status of Coral Reefs of India Status of Coral Reefs in the Mergui-Archipelago, Myanmar (Burma) Mohamad Asarahul HAQUE*, Krishnamoorthy VENKATARAMAN, Georg A HEISS*, Moshira HASSAN, Luca SCHUELI Jayakumar Balagurunathan ALFRED 5 A Bahgat Ali Street, Zamalek, Cairo Arab Republic of Egypt PARYAVARAN BHAVAN, C.G.O. COMPLEX, NEW DELHI - 110003 [email protected] [email protected] Reef Check surveys were carried out in the southern Mergui Archipelago in the The major reef formations in India are restricted to the Gulf of Mannar, Gulf of Andaman Sea (Myanmar) in 2001, 2003, and 2004. Natural pressure on reefs is Kachchh, Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. These reefs are mainly from river influx. Human impacts are mainly fishing (including important to the local community only to the extent of sustenance fishing. destructive fishing practices) and collection of sea cucumbers, human Tourism is being developed at a few places which are not beneficial to the settlements are dispersed. Deforestation in the hinterland leads to increase of locals to the maximum extend. The reef condition is generally poor and the already high sediment load of the rivers. Diving tourism is its early stages; a declining in near shore waters and areas of high population density. The few dive boats per week enter the archipelago from Thailand. The high bleaching event of 1998 in India has been reported to have increased dead coral sediment and nutrient input from rivers results in high turbidity in the shallow cover to about 70 + 10 % . However, post-bleaching surveys in 2001-2003 have near shore reefs. Nonetheless, coral cover is high and health of corals as well as shown recovery of some of the coral reef fauna except Lakshadweep Islands. coral coverage (up to 75%) is in general good. Low light levels are probably the Impacts of bleaching on other reef organisms and reef fisheries have not been cause for restricted growth of hermatypic corals below 9m water depth in many adequately evaluated. Sedimentation, dredging and coral mining are damaging reefs. Large fish as well as invertebrates such as lobsters or sea cucumbers were near shore reefs, while the use of explosives and bottom nets in fishing are rare. In some reefs we observed extremely high numbers of Diadema sea damaging off shore reefs in specific sites. Taking in to consideration ecological urchins (up to 300/100m2). Results of fish and invertebrate surveys show a and economic significance of Coral reefs and the threat perceptions, dramatic impact of over fishing, often through destructive fishing methods. The Government of India has initiated measures for their intensive conservation and waters of the Lampi National Park are no exception. management. Capacity for survey and underwater studies has been increased using Aus-Aid India Australia Training and Capacity Building Project. International initiative on the GEF project on the Coral reefs of Gulf of Mannar has been functional by forming a Gulf of Mannar Trust. To protect the sovereign rights of the people of the country Biodiversity Act 2002 has been enacted in the parliament and by establishing National, State and Local Biodiversity Fund. Present paper deals with ecological status of Coral reefs in the country and various national and international initiatives as well as current efforts of Government of India along with gaps and future directions for their conservation and management.

404 Poster 4-1 Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation 10th ICRS

A History of Acanthaster planci in Onna-Vill Status of Coral Reefs in Japan Akiyuki IRIKAWA*, Yoshimi HIGA Tadashi KIMURA*, Hitoshi HASEGAWA, Takeshi IGARASHI, Makoto INABA, Environmental Assistance for Community & Culture Co.,Ltd. Japan Kenji IWAO, Fumihito IWASE, Kenji KAJIWARA, Takashi MATSUMOTO, [email protected] Tatsuo NAKAI, Satoshi NOJIMA, Keiichi NOMURA, Masanori NONAKA, Katsuki OKI, Kazuhiko SAKAI, Kazuyuki SHIMOIKE, Kaoru SUGIHARA, In Onna village the west side of Okinawa island, outbreak of ,Acanthaster Mitsuhiro UENO, Shinpei UENO, Hiroya YAMANO, Hiroyuki YOKOCHI, planci of several times happened in the past 30 years, and scleratinian coral Minoru YOSHIDA community have suffered serious damage. Extermination of ,Acanthaster planci 3-10-10 Shitaya, Taito, Tokyo 110-8676 Japan has been recently performed over for 15 years in Onna village. Continuation of [email protected] extermination showed that the density of a large-sized starfishes increase before an outbreak, that generating cycles differ on the 10km scale, and that specific Although Japan is located at the northern edge of coral distribution of the coraline algae and sclaretinian corals existed abundantly in the place shallower Pacific Ocean, coral diversity is quite high at the latitude. Four hundred coral than the depth of 50m in the place where large-scale outbreak happens. species have been recorded in Japan. Corals widely distribute from Ryukyu Moreover, there is a tendency that the density of childish ,Acanthaster planci is Islands to northern islands, Kyushu, Shikoku and Honshu. Main disturbances on corals are crown-of-thorns starfish and bleaching. higher in specific geographical feature, and it became clear that many wreckage Outbreak of the starfish occurred around the Ryukyu Islands from late 1960’s to of corymbose coral colonies are seen and the place where the density of 1990’s. The outbreak finished in the middle of 1990’s after destroying almost childish starfish is higher. Now, in Onna village the trial which manages the entire coral communities there. Most of the coral have been recovered density of ,Acanthaster planci by exterminating reproductable starfishes is kept gradually in 10 to 20 years after the outbreak. However, the number of the starfish has been increasing again. continued. The catastrophic bleaching event occurred in Japan in summer of 1998. Relatively small scale bleaching occurred in 2001, 2002 and 2003. On the other hand, coral coverage is increasing in the northern islands because of elevated water temperature in winter, which limits coral distribution in the area. Soil runoff by the coastal development is still the major threat on the reefs. Large numbers of corals were killed by sedimentation after heavy rain in Ishigaki and Shikoku in 2001. The corallivorous gastropod Drupella is also one of the main disturbances on corals in northern islands. Drupella outbreaks occurred in Shikoku and Kyushu from late 1970’s to 1990’s. Some of the areas still have a large number of Drupellas. However, these threats and disturbances involve the general people to pay their attention toward the marine environment and coral conservation. There are some management practices conducted in the local communities to control the disturbances. The government also starts considering integrated coastal management for coral conservation involving different stakeholders as well as implementing individual activities.

Status of Corals in Korea The Status of Coral Reefs and the 2003 Mass Fish Deaths in Kiribati : Jong-Geel JE*, Bon Joo KOO Climate Change? Are Livelihoods at Stake Ansan P.O.Box 29, Seoul 425-600 Republic of Korea Taratau KIRATA*, Reuben SULU [email protected] Tarawa, Kiribati Kiribati [email protected] Jeju island (Jejudo) located in the southern tip of Korea has some distinct soft corals with tropical and subtropical elements because of a branch of warm The status of coral reefs in Kiribati is generally unknown. A few anecdotal current, Kuroshio, which passes mainly through the southern part of the Island, studies exist, however no permanent monitoring programme is in place. This however, Korean waters do not have any typical coral reefs by reef building paper presents results of some monitoring initiative in Kiribati in 2004 and stony corals. There are varieties of soft corals with vertical zonation on some unusual mass fish deaths, which occurred between October to December volcanic rocks around three islets, Munseom, Bumseom and Supseom in the 2003 southern area. Jejudo is considered as an ecological refuge for the tropical and subtropical marine species and is northern edge of their distribution as well. The soft coral communities have been under destruction since 1988. Major factors of threats on the marine life including corals are suspended material from coastal development, construction, land-based organic pollution including wastewater and unsustainable fishing. Recreational divers and the tourist submarine also sometimes physically impact the habitats of marine organisms, especially of soft corals on subtidal cliffs. The first protected area was designated in Nakdong River Estuary as a Natural Monument Protection Area for migratory bird habitats in 1966. The first marine national park, the Hallyeosudo Marine National Park, was established in the South Sea of Korea in 1968. Natural Monument Protection Areas at Munseom and Bumseom of Jejudo designated in 2000 are the first protected areas for marine life including corals. The southern coast of Seogwipo is also investigated for designation as a Biosphere Reserve Area by UNESCO and a Marine Protected Area by Ministry of maritime Affairs and Fisheries. A network system is needed for all protected areas relating to marine ecosystems for efficient management and conservation through sharing information and experiences, as well as integrated management for coastal and marine ecosystems of the managed areas in Jejudo.

405 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

The Status of Brazilian Coral Reefs since 5000 Years Ago Reef Check in Japan Zelinda M LEAO*, Ruy K P KIKUCHI, Leo X C DUTRA, Saulo SPANO, Yasuaki MIYAMOTO* Marilia D M OLIVEIRA, Igor C CRUZ 1-32-13-405, Unomori, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan Rua Caetano Moura 123, Federacao, Salvador, Bahia, Brasil [email protected] [email protected] We, Coral Network, have been supporting Reef Check surveys in Japan. I will Holocene reef growth in Brazilian waters began after 8000yrs BP. Until show Reef Check results and how we successflly inclease survey teams. 5000yrs BP reefs developed upward to catch-up a transgressive sea, exhibiting a framework mainly composed by the endemic coral Mussismilia braziliensis, which colonies reached up to 1m diameter. A 5m sea-level lowering that occurred after 5000yrs BP, exposed nearshore reefs to solar radiation and influx of terrigenous sediment, causing a catastrophic coral cover decline, from about 20% in fossil reefs to less than 8% in living reefs. Nowadays, a sediment accumulation rate over 10mg.cm-2.day-1 seems to be critical for the vital condition of this low diversity coral fauna, because there is an inverse relationship with respect to some of their biotic parameters. Bleaching events registered in 1993, 1994, 1997/98 and 2003 did not cause mass mortality; all bleached corals recovered after 6 months. The results of three years (2000, 2001, 2002) monitoring the offshore reefs of Abrolhos National Marine Park, applying the AGRRA (Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment) protocol, are: a) benthos surveys indicate that fringing reefs of Abrolhos Islands show some reef damage in sites where intensive diving is permitted; b) giant offshore pinnacles rate as well preserved in terms of density and health of large stony corals, recruits density and macroalgae scarcity, c) pinnacles microtopographic complexity may enhance fish species diversity in relation to fringing reefs, where tourists or artisanal fishers (night illegal fishing) may have been reducing the density of carnivores, and d) no signs of disease or coral plague are seen in any stony corals. Sea-level rise may favor nearshore reefs in Brazil, while global warming seems not to be an important threat to this selected robust coral taxa. Management strategies for establishment of no-take reef areas need to be implemented in Brazil, for minimizing human impacts and ensure long-term protection of coral reefs.

The Jamaica Coral Reef Monitoring Network (JCRMN): Facilitating Status of Coral Reefs in Tanzania Increased Monitoring of Jamaican North and South-coast Reefs Mohammed S MOHAMMED*, Christopher A MUHANDO, Haji M ALI, Dulcie M LINTON*, Peter E EDWARDS, George F WARNER Carol DANIELS Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica Livingstone House, P.O. Box 774, Zanzibar - Tanzania [email protected] [email protected]

The JCRMN was launched by the Caribbean Coastal Data Centre (CCDC), Coral reef recovery after the 1998 bleaching event in Tanzania is significant, Centre for Marine Sciences, University of the West Indies in June 2003 at the despite the occurrence of a minor coral bleaching episode in April 2003. The Discovery Bay Marine Laboratory. Seventeen individuals representing live coral cover on Unguja (Zanzibar), Tanga, Dar es Salaam, Songo Songo, academic, governmental and non-governmental organizations and institutions and Mtwara reefs was medium (20-35 %) to good (35-55 %). However, participated and agreed on priority areas for coral reef monitoring in Jamaica. recovery is very slow and macroalgal abundance is high in sites that were Through this collaborative effort, resources are shared and a growing volunteer severely hit (70-80 % mortality) by the 1998 bleaching event, e.g. in Kitutia (in group of divers have been trained through a series of training workshops in Mafia). Recent reef studies have indicated a slight change in coral species coral reef monitoring organized by the CCDC. Data have been collected on the composition and an increase in settlement and recruitment rates in 2003 status of corals, selected invertebrates and fish on a number of reef sites in compared to 1999 years. The density of reef fish has shown a slight decline in Jamaica, particularly on the south coast, where coral reef data is scarce. unprotected areas and a slight increase in protected areas (e.g., Mafia Island Preliminary results indicate that south coast reefs generally have better hard Marine Park and Chumbe Island Marine Sanctuary). Similarly, some changes in coral cover than north coast reefs, suggesting that the impacts of sedimentation, reef fish composition, in favour of herbivores have been observed in some pollution and over-fishing may not be as pronounced as on the north coast. Reef Unguja reefs. The densities of macro-invertebrates have fluctuated up and fish population is low at all reef sites while diadema showed some spatial down over the past five years, e.g., increased in Pemba and declined in Mafia, pattern to its distribution, suggesting that the recovery of diadema populations depending on exploitation levels and recruitment success. The use of may be facilitated more at some sites than at others. destructive fishing practices, overfishing, sedimentation and pollution are the main anthropogenic threats to coral reefs in Tanzania. Algal competition and to a less extent, crown of thorn starfish predation (in Unguja) also contributed to slow recovery of coral reefs. Environmental education, community resource monitoring programmes as well as establishment of more marine protected areas are some of the efforts taken to enhance sustainable coral reef exploitation.

406 Poster 4-1 Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation 10th ICRS

Coral Reef Monitoring for Management in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia The Current Ecological Status of Coral Reef Ecosystems in Mnazi Bay - Abigail M MOORE*, Sofyan A YOTOLEMBAH, Samliok NDOBE, Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park Harto DARWINTO David OBURA, Redfred NGOWO*, Julie CHURCH, Mohammed NUR, Jl Tendean No 7, Palu 94111, Central Sulawesi Republic of Indonesia Nsajigwe MBIJE [email protected] P.O.BOX 845, MTWARA, TANZANIA Republic of Kenya [email protected] \ Yayasan Adi Citra Lestari (YACL) is a local NGO based in Palu, Central The Mnazi Bay-Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park, located at the extreme south of Sulawesi, a Province with over 2000 km of coastline and many small islands, most fringed by coral reefs, with numerous barrier reefs and atolls. In 2000, Tanzania’s coastline (40o23’E, 10o18’S), includes a complex of outer fringing when YACL was a local partner in Reefs at Risk SE Asia, there was little or no reefs, channel fringing reefs, lagoon patch and platform reefs over an area of data for most reefs, and no locally based monitoring capacity. YACL initiated a approximately 150km2. A biodiversity inventory and habitat assessment capacity-building programme for coral reef monitoring, including training in conducted in late November 2003 updated information on the area from SCUBA and GCRMN methods (Manta Tow, Reef Check and LIT). Supported previous studies in the mid-1990s. A total of 258 species (59 genera/15 families by The David & Lucille Packard Foundation, UNEP EAS/RCU, NOAA, PADI - the highest number recorded for a site in East Africa) of reef building corals Project AWARE and the Reef Check Foundation, the result is a capable survey and 369 species of reef fish (146 genera/47 families) were identified. The coral team recruited from the local community, with strong commitment to coral reef reefs showed evidence of having suffered major coral mortality in the El Nino conservation. Data collected has been submitted to local, national and of 1998, but recruitment and re-growth of hard and soft corals was high, and international stakeholders. Fourteen permanent transects at four long-term hard and soft coral cover were estimated at an average of 30% and 18% monitoring sites are regularly surveyed: two protected areas with marine respectively. The impacts of destructive and excessive fishing pressure on the components, Pulau Pasoso Provincial level Game Reserve and Tanjung Api reefs were high. Dynamite fishing was stopped in 1998, but craters and Strict Nature Reserve; Palu Bay (YACL base and main training area); and damaged corals were abundant in all sheltered and shallow areas. Continuing Labuana (community awareness programme site, including ecotourism). damage to the benthos from drag nets is likely until proposed management Additional sites surveyed include a control area for Tanjung Api and locations regimes are implemented. These, together with pressure from the large artisanal where data is required for planning purposes, in collaboration with other fishery in the area have resulted in a near-total absence of not only the preferred projects and organisations. Applications include: planning a support programme higher predators (groupers, emperors, snappers), but also of herbivores for Pulau Pasoso, community development & extension activities, and (parrotfish, surgeonfish, rabbitfish). Nevertheless, the high ecological production of a variety of training and awareness materials (YACL); input to resilience of the reef system, suggested by the massive recruitment and high the Marine and Coastal Resources Management Project (local Government and recovery rates of hard and soft corals observed, suggest that the proposed ADB); decision support for MPA creation or status change in the Togean Islands, Banggai Archiplegao, Pulau Pasoso (National programme). In addition management of fishing and other pressures could result in rapid and successful to providing data and data-related products, involvement in education, return of the reef ecosystem to a less damaged state. community outreach, and coastal resource management is expected to increase in 2004/2005.

Status Report on Coral Reefs in the Philippines Data and Information Standards for Coral Reef Monitoring and Status Cleto L NANOLA*, Angel C ALCALA, Porfirio M ALINO, Hazel O ARCEO, Reports Wilfredo L CAMPOS, Edgardo D GOMEZ, Wilfredo Y LICUANAN, James K OLIVER*, Marco NOORDELOOS Miledel C QUIBILAN, Andre J UYCHIAOCO, Allan T WHITE PO BOX 500, 11680 Bayan Lepas, Penang Malaysia Bago Oshiro, Tugbok District, Davao City 8000, Philippines [email protected] [email protected] Management and sustainable development of coral reefs are ideally based on a sound understanding of marine and coastal processes and resources. Reef Regular update of the status report on coral reefs has been ongoing for more monitoring programs play an important part in this, as they regularly generate than two decades. Initial report indicated that only 5 percent were in excellent condition. Through the years this state has declined. Various management important volumes of data and information on coral reef parameters. However, interventions were conducted in various forms such as establishment of marine standardized and easily accessible data and information from these programs is protected areas and strict enforcement of the law on destructive and illegal often lacking. As a result, global, regional and in some cases even national coral fishing methods. Based from the year 2002 monitoring report, 24 percent of the reef status reports of the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) do studied reefs through time showed an increasing trend on hard coral cover, 17 not always make use of the full range of data which has been collected through percent were stable and 20 percent were decreasing. Fish abundance indicates these programs. Similarly, although ReefBase is the official data repository for that 17 percent were increasing, 5 percent were stable and 18 percent were the GCRMN, to date only a small proportion of the available data is lodged decreasing. At present, most of these areas being monitored are being managed there. Sensible standards and guidelines for reef monitoring reporting structure and thus may indicate a relatively optimistic outlook than what is prevalent. and formats could help to bridge the current reef information gaps, and enable The most prevalent threats to reef health remain to be overfishing and its production of essential statistics, indicators, and status reports at national, resultant associated destructive fishing. Sedimentation though pervasive and regional, and global scales.The recent International Workshop on Coral Reef can be detected through many of the condition indices of reefs, does not seem Monitoring Data addressed a range of ideas and suggestions on how national, to be as widespread especially in areas which are less accessible and far from regional and global coral reef status reports could be structured and presented as river runoff areas. Storm damage and wave surge are also important forcing part of the GCRMN. An important goal was to produce guidelines for GCRMN factors, though these associative relationships are derived from more refined reports that would make effective use of the data that is currently being community benthos and fish correlation analyses. Previous distinct stress (e.g. collected around the world on coral reef condition, and threats. Additionally, coral bleaching in 1998) from El Nino associated events has not been as the workshop aimed to provide guidance on how data collection might be better discernible in this recent update. Additional information from areas monitored focused and standardized to enable specific questions to be addressed and through time (2002 to 2004) derived from managed areas suggests that there are comparisons made. This paper discusses reef data and information reporting increases in more areas than before. Although these results may be standards, and how they could facilitate better sharing of results from multiple encouraging, present simulation studies indicate that it may take more than a hundred years for reefs to recover from the prevailing stresses unless monitoring programs into an unprecedented public knowledge base on the enhancement measures are improved and with more areas being managed more status of coral reefs. effectively.

407 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

Taking Two Steps Back with Each Step forward: Seychelles Coral Reefs Status of the Coral Reefs in Wallis Island (French Overseas Territory of Remain at the Mercy of Bleaching Events Wallis & Futuna) Rolph A PAYET, Jude BIJOUX* Michel PICHON*, Claude PAYRI, Francesca BENZONI, Paino VANAI P.O. Box 677, Victoria, Mahe, SEYCHELLES Republic of Seychelles Service de l’Environnement, Administration Centrale, Mata Utu, Ile Wallis, [email protected] Wallis & Futuna [email protected] Coral reefs around the Seychelles inner granitic islands suffered extensively from the mass coral bleaching event of 1998. Many reefs were reduced from a Wallis Island (French Overseas Territory of Wallis & Futuna) is an almost-atoll more or less pristine state to less than 10% live coral cover. Extensive with a 155 m high central island, encircled by a a 63 km long barrier reef. The monitoring of reefs has been undertaken from the year 2000 on a 6 months central island, and smaller high islands present in the lagoon are lined with basis. During this period 2 additional coral bleaching events were recorded, fringing reefs. Numerous patch reefs and pinnacles also occur in the lagoon. which further impacted the recovering reefs. A number of factors are known to The coral reefs of Wallis Island have not been affected in the recent past by be affecting recovery of many reefs in the Seychelles. We hypothesize that severe disturbances such as cyclones, Acanthaster infestations or significant recurring coral bleaching events remain the most important factor limiting coral bleaching episodes. A detailed survey of coral and algal species diversity and recovery. Data on trends in recovery and reduction in live coral cover caused by community structure was carried out in 2002. This survey revealed a hich coral bleaching events are presented to support this hypothesis along with and algal diversity (including encrusting coralline algae) on the outer slopes of extrapolation of expected coral cover in the absence of new bleaching events. It the barrier reef, lagoon reefs and fringing reefs, with up to 160 scleractinian was concluded that renewed coral bleaching event remains the single most coral species and 216 species of algae and segrasses. Conversely, the barrier important factor limiting recovery of coral reefs around the Seychelles inner reef flat is largely covered by carbonate sediments, with very low coral cover granitic islands. We further concluded that live coral cover on many reefs except for the back reef margin. This situation can be explained by the fact that, around the Seychelles inner granitic islands will increase from about 10% to in geological terms, the coral reefs of Wallis Island have reached a stage of 40% in 5 years in the absence of renewed coral bleaching event. maturity with respect to the present sea level, rather than as a result of anthropic pressure. Degradation of coral reef communities, presumably as a result of dynamite fishing was observed in a number of areas of the barrier reef flat. The effects of anthropic disturbances were also observed near the harbour area, where large brown algae (Sargassum polycystum) were conspicuous, and on some fringing reefs along the mainland shores. The coral reefs of Wallis Island are noteworthy by the richness of the barrier reef slope communities, particularly the lower slope communities, between 25 and 40 m, and the occurrence, sometimes in high abundance of coral species which are relatively rare, or with a very restricted geographical distribution range.

Effects of Environmental and Biological Factors on Juvenile and Adult Status of the Coral Reefs of Mayotte Island (SW Indian Ocean) Five Years Coral Communities in Kuwait Off-shore Reefs after the 1998 Bleaching Event Michel PICHON*, Francesca BENZONI, Shakier ALHAZEEM Michel PICHON*, Fany SEGUIN, Stephanie HERNANDEZ, 66860 PERPIGNAN Cedex. FRANCE French Republic Bernard THOMASSIN, Dhahabia CHANFI, Spem DAF [email protected] EPHE Universite de Perpignan, Perpignan, France French Southern Territories [email protected] The Arabian Gulf is a shallow sedimentary basin where environmental conditions can be limiting for coral reef growth. Such conditions include, The scleractinian coral fauna of the barrier reef encircling Mayotte Island (SW among others, extremes (both high and low) in seawater temperature regime Indian Ocean) was severely affected by the 1998 bleaching episode. Between 0 and the Shatt al Arab freshwater input. a waterway into which the Tigris, and 6 m depth, coral mortality was higher than 90%, affecting mostly the Euphrates and Karun rivers discharge their waters. Coral reefs fringing the off- Pocilloporidae and the genus Acropora, which were overwhelmingly dominant shore islands of Kubbar, Qaro and Um Al Maradeem off the southern shores of on the upper outer reef slopes. Below ca. 6 m, the coral fauna was little affected Kuwait are the most northerly reefs in the Arabian Gulf. These shallow high- by the bleaching event, with no evidence of mortality, or only partial mortality latitude reefs are characterized by a low coral species diversity, and a relatively observed during surveys carrried out in 2000 and 2002. Limited recolonization, high cover dominated by Acropora spp. and Porites spp. paucispecific mostly by species of Acropora was observed on the upper slope in December assemblages, a typical condition in other high-latitude reefs in the Arabian 2002, with up to 14 colonies per square metre, belonging principally to the region. In late 2003 a survey of kuwaiti off-shore coral reefs was carried out in humilis and the robusta groups of species. The average colony size ranged order to assess coral community structure, and adult and juvenile coral diversity between 10 and 15 cm. Conversely, only a few Pocilloporidae, which were and distribution. A survey of the abundance and distribution of the sea urchin present before the 1998 bleaching event, had re-established almost 5 years Echinometra mathaei was also conducted in order to investigate possible later.Detailed surveys carried out in 1989 and 1997 on the fringing reefs relationships between the density of coral juveniles, and grazing sea urchins. indicate an average decrease in coral cover of 5-10% over the 8-year period, Coral reefs at Kubbar, Qaro and Um Al Maradeem were surveyed at sites with and recent evidence suggests an on-going trend of degradation. In contrast to different exposure to the Shatt al Arab input, to predominant hydrodynamic the situation observed on the barrier reef, corals on the fringing reefs were not actions and at different depths (1-3 m and 5-8 m). Although coral cover affected at all by the 1998 bleaching event. This situation can be explained by showed no significant differences between sites or depth, and between islands, the fact that fringing reefs experience more extreme environmental conditions significantly lower species diversity was found at exposed sites. Coral juveniles in particular in terms of seawater temperature and salinity variations, as well as density was significantly higher in sheltered sites, and at deeper depth, whereas heavier loads of nutrients and silt from terrigenous runoff . Corals on the Echinometra mathaei density showed an opposite pattern , being significantly fringing reefs would therefore have adapted to harsher conditions and become higher at exposed sites, and at shallower depth. Our results suggest that the more tolerant, in particular to above normal temperature increase in summer. It Shatt al Arab water input influences the coral diversity and juvenile coral is further hypothesized that recolonization by corals of the barrier reef after the abundances in the reefs of the northern Arabian Gulf. bleaching event results from the settlement of propagules originating from the more resistant fringing reefs.

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A National Status Report for Coral Reefs in Bermuda Papua New Guinea's Participation in a Global Assessment of Human Joanna M PITT*, Samantha J DE PUTRON, Alexandra AMAT, Thaddeus Effects on Coral Reefs, 1998 to 2000 MURDOCH, Brian LUCKHURST Norman J QUINN*, Rebecca SAMMUEL, Barbara L KOJIS 17 Biological Station Lane, St. George’s GE01, Bermuda PO Box 35, Discovery Bay, St. Ann Jamaica [email protected] [email protected]

The high latitude coral reefs of Bermuda have not escaped impact but are The transformation of Papua New Guineas economy has altered the use of coral generally healthy. Coral cover varies greatly between reef zones, but appears reefs. Today reefs are increasingly fished commercially, visited by tourist stable within zones over recent years. Highest cover is found on the terrace divers, and impacted by resource exploitation. The impact of these activities on reefs, followed by the rim reefs. These areas are comparable to healthy the reef ecosystem needs to be assessed. Using the Reef Check protocol, Caribbean reefs. Patch reefs have lower cover but greater species diversity. University of Papua New Guinea students conducted surveys on reefs in Species richness is restricted by distance from the Caribbean and the stress of Kavieng, Kimbe Harbour, Tufi, Madang and the Papuan Lagoon from May low winter temperatures. Differences in breeding season and fecundity 1998 to June 2000. Students were taught scuba skills and marine survey compared to the Caribbean have implications for Bermuda coral populations. techniques. From an initial group of 32 students, 15 students successfully Photosynthetic capacity and calcification rates show little spatial but large completed PADI open water dive certification and 11 participated in Reef seasonal variation. In 2003, widespread bleaching affected a variety of species Check surveys. Survey results indicated that offshore reefs still retained large and impacted photosynthetic and calcifying performance. The fire coral, fish populations as exemplified by the large schools of Maori wrasse within Millepora alcicornis, experienced high mortality, but overall mortality was low 15km of Port Moresby. Tridanca clams, lobsters, and Triton shells (Charonia as scleractinians recovered in the lower seawater temperatures brought about by tritonis) were very rare. Butterfly fish were common on most reefs. Also, coral Hurricane Fabian. No significant hurricane damage to reef communities was cover was high and there was no evident of recent deaths either by bleaching or observed. Incidence of coral diseases is low. Most families of reef fishes are Acanthaster planci. There was no evidence that dynamite or poison was used on relatively abundant and stable. The 1990 ban on fish traps has resulted in a any reefs. The PNG Dive Operators Organization supports a mooring program significant increase in the biomass of parrotfishes (Scaridae). Some carnivores which reduces the damage caused by anchors on reefs used by tourist boats. targeted by the fishery are still depleted although black grouper, Mycteroperca None of the reefs had any noticeable anchor damage or trash. The provincial bonaci, have increased in abundance in response to management measures. towns close to the reefs surveyed were small and sewage discharge did not The 29 small no-take Marine Protected Areas do not yet appear to have made a impact surveyed reefs. The main human impact on PNGs reefs is from coastal significant contribution to the enhancement of fish stocks. Surveys of juvenile artisanal fisheries. Subsequent to these surveys a fish processing plant has fishes show that common species are recruiting well, although juveniles of opened in Madang with reports of foul smelling discharges into the sea. The depleted species are still rare. Distinct spatial patterns indicate a need for Madang reefs should be resurveyed to ascertain any impacts from the fish protection of recruitment habitats. Maintaining the current status is the most processing plant and to determine if any recommendations need to be submitted realistic prediction for the next ten years. An ideal scenario would see a wider to the local or national government of PNG. range of habitats and species placed under a greater variety of protective measures.

Programs and Legal Instruments for the Conservation of Coral Reefs in Status, Diversity and Threats to Branching Corals (Scleractinia) of Gulf of Brazil Mannar Marine National Park Ana Paula L PRATES*, Beatrice Padovani FERREIRA Kosalai Pargunam RAGHURAM*, Krishnamoorthy VENKATARAMAN Esplanada dos Ministerios, Bloco B, Sala 731, Brasilia/DF, 70.068-900, Brazil 130, SANTHOME HIGH ROAD CHENNAI, 600 028 INDIA [email protected] [email protected]

In Brazil the marine and coastal zone encompasses three million squared Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is situated at southeast coast of India. kilometers. Along the northeast and north parts of the coast, warm currents There are 21 islands surrounded with fringing reefs. In the recent times the give support to a great variety of ecosystems including mangroves, coral reefs, GoMMNP reefs are under intense human pressure. Impact of anthropogenic dunes, sandbanks, sandy beaches, islands, lagoons and estuaries. Coral Reefs, in disturbances on the status and diversity of branching corals in the Gulf of Brazil, are distributed along 3,000 km of the Brazilian northeastern coast, the Mannar were studied. The LIT (Line Intercept Transect) shows ACT 1%, ACB only reef ecosystem in the Atlantic South. The establishment of protected areas 1%, CD 11%, CB 4%, CF, 3%, CE 12%, CM 68%. In Gulf of Mannar, Pillai is considered one of the main strategies for conservation of the biodiversity. In (1983) reported 12 species of Acropora out of which only 5 were observed Brazil, up to now, nine protected areas have been created over coral reef (Acropora muricata, A. hyacinthus, A. millepora, A. humilis and A. ecosystem including some international protected areas (Ramsar and Natural cythereaand). The genus Acropora forms a major branching corals in Gulf of World Heritage sites), several other measures were taken in order protect coral Mannar. The genera Acropora and Pocillopora were severely affected by boat reefs, including a significant number of conventions, laws, norms and anchoring, net entanglemnt, induced sediment settlement due to seaweed procedures. In 1992, Brazil was the first country to sign the Convention of the plucking and coral mining. Selective mining of species like Pocillopora Biological Diversity and this commitment has stimulated a series of damicornis had depleted their population in Gulf of Mannar. Recruitment rate conservation measures. In this context, the Law of Environmental Crimes and of branching corals is very low due to seaweed plucking, shoreseine operation, the Law of the National System of Conservation Units were of special blast fishing and other anthropogenic disturbances. significance. In addition, the Ministry of the Environment in partnership with other institutions has created a number of programs. Some examples are the Atlas of Coral Reef Protected Areas in Brazil, developed to map and assess the representativeness of existing MPAs; the Coral Reefs Conservation Campaign developed to increase public awareness; and the Brazilian Coral Reef Monitoring Program, developed to monitor coral reefs health through the implementation of Reef Check. This paper will bring together the main strategies established for the conservation of coral reefs in Brazil, describe the legal instruments and the most relevant programs aimed to the conservation as well as the threats to their success.

409 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

Status of Coral Reefs in Sri Lanka Reef Fish Assemblages of Three Colombian Caribbean Sites: Status and Arjan RAJASURIYA* Spatial and Temporal Trends Crow Island, Mattakkuliya, Colombo 15 Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Maria C REYES-NIVIA*, Alberto RODRIGUEZ-RAMIREZ, Lanka Jaime GARZON-FERREIRA [email protected] A.A 1016 Santa Marta Republic of Colombia [email protected] Coral reefs habitats in Sri Lanka are patchy, the majority occur as fringing reefs. There are well-developed offshore patch reefs in the Gulf of Mannar. Reef fish assemblages were surveyed annually (1998-2003) to know its status Sandstone/limestone platforms are abundant and are the most common form of and to explore spatial and temporal trends at three Caribbean sites (Chengue substrate for reef development. Coral reefs were severely bleached in 1998 bay, Rosario island and San Andres island) through the National Monitoring during the coral-bleaching event in the Indian Ocean. There is little recovery System for the Corals Reefs of Colombia “SIMAC”. Within each site, two reefs among inshore coral reefs along the west coast. In the southern coast there is were evaluated at three depth levels. The Roving Diving Technique was used to rapid colonisation by branching Acropora species at Weligama whilst assess the richness and relative abundance of species. From this data, a Montipora aequituberculata is the dominant coral species among other southern comprehensive species list (200) with 5-11 new records for each site was coastal reefs. In the Gulf of Mannar, new coral growth has been recorded from compiled. At Chengue 150 species were registered, at San Andres island 140, the Bar Reef Marine Sanctuary and other nearby patch reefs. Some individual while in Rosario island there were 129 species. These results show that there is patches contain more than 50 percent live coral, dominated by tabulate a high richness of fish in the evaluated areas, even though we only surveyed Acroporids. Shifts from newly growing coral to algal banks have been two stations and one type of environmental reef. In general, at the three sites observed. In the east coast there is good coral growth and healthy coral habitats there is a low representation or scarcity of species of commercial importance in the Pigeon Island National Park and at Punnakuda near Batticoloa. Results due its low sighting frequency and a low relative density of individuals. To from monitoring have indicated changes in coral and fish communities. Low identify the general spatial trends of the fish assemblages, a classification abundance of Chaetodontids and other coral dependent species on most shallow analyses was carried out, which identified four different groups. In general, the coral habitats reflects the impact of loss of live coral coverage on reef fish analyses showed that the stations within any locality tended to group within the species. Special Area Management Programmes are active at the Bar Reef same cluster. Inside each area, the groups formed through the multidimensional Marine Sanctuary and in two coral reef areas in the Southern Coast to better scaling ordination generally showed the influence of the depth level in spatial manage and protect coral reef resources. Two new marine protected areas have distribution of the fish community composition. The cluster showed a particular been declared in 2003 bring the total up to 4 coral reef marine protected areas community structure at shallow level and another at “mid-depth” level. With for Sri Lanka. However, management of reef fisheries and other extractive uses regards to the temporal trends, no considerable changes in the assemblages of is poor and an overall decrease in fish communities on most reefs is evident. fishes have been observed over the years of monitoring in accordance with the The current status of the coral reef habitats, their management issues and results information shown by the multivariate analyses. from recent monitoring are highlighted.

Changes in Coral and Reef Fish Communities in Sri Lanka; five Years Status and Recent Dynamics (1998-2003) of the Coral Reefs of Colombia after the Major Bleaching Event in 1998 Alberto RODRIGUEZ-RAMIREZ*, Carlos CARO-ZAMBRANO, Arjan RAJASURIYA*, Nishan PERERA, Chaminda KARUNARATHNE Jaime GARZON-FERREIRA Crow Island, Mattakkuliya, Colombo 15 Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri A.A. 1016 Santa Marta, Colombia Lanka [email protected] [email protected] Through the National Monitoring System for the Coral Reefs of Colombia Coral reefs in Sri Lanka are limited to shallow water and occur as fringing and (SIMAC), three areas of the Caribbean and one in the Pacific were evaluated offshore patch reefs. The 1998 major bleaching event had serious consequences annually (1998-2003), in order to determine their recent dynamics and status. for coral reefs around much of the country except in the northeastern coastal The information was obtained over permanent chain transects of 10 m of waters where some reefs escaped bleaching. Recovery of bleached reefs has length, established at different depth levels. The average of live coral cover been variable; several offshore patch reefs have shown better recovery ranged between 20% and 35% and the algal cover between 35% and 43% in the comparatively to inshore shallow coral habitats. In the south a shift in the coral Caribbean localities, whereas in the Pacific, live coral cover reached 60% and diversity has been recorded where previously Acropora dominated fringing reef the algal cover 28%. In the context of the Great Caribbean, the monitored coral habitats are now dominated by Montipora. In one of the monitoring sites there reefs of Colombia have a similar status to other areas. This means that algae are was rapid recovery of branching Acropora after the bleaching in 1998. In the the dominant component of the reef surface. In contrast, in the tropical eastern northwest many patch reefs are in poor condition with little live coral on them. Pacific (TEP), the monitored locality is characterized by its high live coral However some individual patches support more than 50 percent live corals and cover. Multivariate analysis indicates that there are no considerable changes in indicate good recruitment and recovery. However a shift has been observed in reef structure at any of the monitored localities between 1993 and 2003. composition and abundance from branching Acropora and Echinopora Nevertheless, repeated measures analysis done with coral, algal and principal lamellosa to tabulate Acropora species. Numerous small colonies of Faviidae, coral species covers, showed some trends of significant change in some Siderastreidae and Poritidae are present in degraded reefs indicating that the localities and depth levels. For example, live coral cover has only decreased in mass coral mortality in 1998 has created an opportunity for many species to one of the Caribbean localities (Chengue Bay) at the shallow reef zone, and in colonise. Other reef patches indicate that the presence of new coral growth may the Pacific reef (Gorgona Island) coral cover declined (~14%) at the shallow not always guarantee complete recovery in the short-term. Coral banks that reef, but increased (~8%) at the middle reef zone. The reductions were not showed recovery in 2002 has been smothered by Halimeda species one year associated with anthropogenic impacts but natural disturbances such as later. In the east coast at Pigeon Island there was no evidence of bleaching in hurricanes (in the Caribbean) or low extreme tides (in the Pacific) and only a 1998 and recent surveys indicate that there is little change in species few coral species were affected. As a consequence, our research showed composition. Monitoring results indicate that the amount of live corals stability for all monitored localities in terms of their coral reef communities, but determines the species diversity and abundance of Chaetodontids and many some temporal variability on a local scale depending on the component of the other reef fish that are dependent on live coral habitats. This paper discusses the reef considered. impact of reef degradation and recovery on fish communities on coral reef habitats.

410 Poster 4-1 Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation 10th ICRS

Status and Threats of Coral Reef in Menai Bay Conservation Area Status of Fishery Target Species on Coral Reefs of the Marianas Salim A SAAD* Archipelago P.O.Box 774 - Zanzibar, Tanzania Robert E SCHROEDER*, Michael S TRIANNI, Kate A MOOTS, [email protected] Brian J ZGLICZYNSKI, Joseph L LAUGHLIN, Brent R TIBBETTS, Mark K CAPONE STATUS AND THREATS OF CORAL REEF IN MENAI BAY NOAA Fisheries, PIFSC, Kewalo Research Facility, Coral Reef Ecosystem CONSERVATION AREA ABSTRACTMenai Bay Conservation Area is in the Division, 1125B Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, HI 96814 United States of South western of Unguja Island, is a popular for traditional fishing and tourism. America The area is known for its productive resources resulting from scattered coral [email protected] reefs and dense seagrass beds. These reefs are increasingly under threats due to destructive fishing practices such as beach seines, dynamite, noxious material Large coral reef fish were surveyed throughout the Marianas Archipelago in and anchors. Coral reefs survey conducted in 1994 shows coral reefs were August-September 2003 to assess their status as fishery targets. Three heavily degraded suffering from human sources such as beach seine, dynamite underwater visual survey methods were used: belt transect (for fish >20cm TL), and anchoring. In 2000 another survey was conducted in different reefs within stationary point count (for fish >25cm), and towboard count (for fish >50cm). conservation area like Tindiji reef, Pungume, Kwale, Kizimkazi, Ukombe reef, Fish sizes were estimated and numerical and biomass densities quantified at 14 islands and 6 shoals. Coincident habitat data were also collected. In general, all and Komonda.Line transect, manta tow and SCUBA diving were used in the three survey methods indicated that large fish (all taxa pooled) occurred in survey. The results show high percentage of hard coral cover within the area; relatively higher densities around the northernmost islands of the archipelago high levels of damage to coral reefs in all sites and smothering by brown algae (e.g., Uracas, Maug, Asuncion). Similar trends held for sharks, jacks, and as a consequence of dying coral; extensive damage from the coral bleaching snappers, considered independently. In contrast, large fish densities were event of 1998. At present, low recovery, over-harvesting of reef fish and reef generally lowest at the southernmost islands/shoal (e.g, Saipan, Tinian, invertebrates are the obvious threats to the reef communities.Establishment of Aguijan, Rota, Guam, Santa Rosa), with a few exceptions (e.g., moderate-high densities of parrotfishes, wrasses and/or emperors, at Rota, Tinian and/or no take zones in crtical sites like Kwale west, Pungume sand bank, Pungume Aguijan). Along the western chain of shoals (e.g., Stingray, Pathfinder, west, Kizimkazi reef and Ukombe reef is important for the well being of the Arakane), sharks, groupers, and jacks had high densities. At most Marianas Bay. Establishment of mooring buoys for tourist boat instead of anchoring can reefs, total large fish densities were lower than those found at some other U.S. reduce anchor damages. Environmental education for fishermen and other users island chains (e.g., the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands and the U.S. Line of marine resources can also reduce human induced degradation. It is also Islands). A few surveys from the mid-1990s have indicated that fishing pressure proposed that coral reef monitoring should be conducted annually to sea in the northern Marianas islands is much less than around the inhabited islands of the south. However, since then there have been an estimated 50-100/yr large changes over time and help in management decision. vessel fishing trips to the north and few venturing to the western shoals. Anecdotal information suggests that large target species were more abundant in the northern islands 6-8 yr ago than what these surveys found. Based on various intelligence sources, the USCG believes there are ~30-45/yr encroachments by foreign fishing vessels into the Marianas EEZ, but surveillance effort is currently insufficient to document any direct poaching activity

The Status of Coral Reefs of Samoa: 2004 Northern Persian Gulf Coral Reefs Status and their Changes from 1990 to Joyce SAMUELU*, Anama SOLOFA, Antonio MULIPOLA, Nofoaiga TAUSA 2001 Using Remotely Sensed Satellite Images (TM and ETM) and Under Apia Park, Samoa American Samoa Water Survey [email protected] Omid SEDIGHI, Hamzeh VALAVI, M MORADI, M R VARASTEH, A SAFFARIAN* Coral reefs are slowly but surely degrading due to the huge dependency of the 187, Nejatollahi Ave.,15187., P.O. Box 5181., Tehran Islamic Republic of Iran Samoan people for their livelihood everyday. The evolution of technology and [email protected] also the increase of population have produced all sorts of problems to the coastal environment and especially the coral reefs. Coral reef monitoring has In this study the distribution of coral reefs and their areas in the northern become an important role by the Fisheries Division since 1997. The Fisheries Persian Gulf (from Strait of Hormuz to the northern part, Khark and Kharkoo Division has undertaken conservation and management efforts with the Islands) were studied.The Landsat- 5 TM and Landsat- 7 ETM data path establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in local communities and (images) covering study area on 1987-1990 and 2001 respectively were used. having them actively involve in the management and monitoring. The joining of Geometric and radiometric correction, evaluation of proposed model and Samoa into the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) further accuracy estimation was carried out. The overall accuracy of classified coral addresses the intention of our Government to enforce on our coral reef map is equal to 89.85%.The biggest and best-developed coral areas were found management and monitoring. Currently, 57 communities have established around Kharkoo Island with approx. area of 310 ha in 1990 decreased to 266 MPAs under the Fisheries Extension Programs and also 10 permanent sites for ha in 2001, followed by Khark Island With 250 ha in 1990 decreased to 188 ha the GCRMN. The outcomes of monitoring from the January-November 2003 in 2001 and Nayband bay with area of 181 ha of coral reef in 2001. The time period show an overall dominance of the live corals together with the smallest area of coral reefs were also found around Bani-farour and Abu-Musa abundance and diversify population of fish and invertebrates. All Islands of Islands with a 2.5 ha and 11 ha of coral coverage in 2001, respectively. Change Samoa were hit by the latest cyclone Heta (2004) and overall damages show an detection survey by comparing two periods of 1990 and 2001 showed average of 30%. More over there are ongoing anthropogenic activities that still significant decrease of coral reefs in many parts of the northern Persian pose threats to the Coral reefs ecosystems. The local staffs have been train in Gulf.The field under water survey indicated that best-developed coral reef the Australian Institute of Marine Science on monitoring methodology but still coverage are located at Kharkoo followed by Nayband bay and Khark, which a need for more trained marine biologists, taxonomist’s ecologists and approve remotely sensed images results. The highest live coral coverage was managers to compliment conservation and monitoring efforts. 32% at Kharkoo Island and lowest in Kish Island with 10% while the highest diversity was found in Kish Island. The most abundant frequently occurred family with highest coverage was Poritidae. Despite recent growth and development of Acropora in shallow waters of Kish Island and some other parts, its high coverage and abundance has been decreased to minimum in shallow waters of many fringing Islands caused by anthropogenic and natural impacts and stresses.

411 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

The Qatar Coral Reef The Impacts of Climate Change on Cosmoledo Atoll, Southern Seychelles Saif SHANDHOUR* David SOUTER*, Olof LINDEN, David OBURA, Rolph PAYET, P.O. Box 7634., Doha State of Qatar Matthew RICHMOND, Charles SHEPPARD, Dan WILHELMSSON [email protected] 391 82 Kalmar Kingdom of Sweden [email protected] Qatar is a peninsula situated in the middle of the western cost of the Arabian Gulf. It covers more than 11.000s.q Km which includes a number of islands. It Coral and fish populations were surveyed at several permanent sites at has a very long coastline extending over 700km - approximately 23% of the Cosmoledo Atoll in the southern Seychelles to determine their status and total Gulf Coastline. The capital and most prominent City of Qatar is Doha, monitor future changes. Mortality of coral in the lagoon and on seaward slopes located on the middle of the Eastern coast of the country. In addition to Doha, was severe to a depth of 10 m with only a few Porites colonies surviving. there are also many small cities that outline the Qatari coast. eg. AI-Khoor, Beyond 10 m, survival was greater. Deeper reef slopes supported 20-25% live RasLafan, AI-Wakra, Umm Saeed. Generally, the peninsula has a flat desert coral cover. Coral diversity was high with 120 species from 15 families and 45 landscape, except certain parts of it is Western coast, which contain hills and genera recorded. The most speciose genera were Acropora, Montipora, Favites valleys. Sabkhas (salt marsh) sand dunes and mangroves can be found as well. and Porites. Favia, Fungia, Pavona, Millepora, Alveopora, and Goniopora Tourists tend to be attracted to sand dunes due to the beauty of their nature. were poorly represented.The average number of coral recruits ranged between 5 Also, they are keen to visit the coral reef. The coral reef can be found in and 6.7 m-2on the slope and 6.8 m-2 in the lagoon. On reef slopes, recruitment several parts of the coast including some Islands. In 1998 the rise in water was greater at 20 m than 10 m. Faviids were most common at 20 m, while temperature in the Arabian Gulf caused many parts of the reef to die off. At pocilloporids dominated at 10 m. The species composition of recruits differed present, there are regulation to protect and maintain the reef and what it from the pre-bleaching adult community. In the lagoon, Porites and Fungia contains. The Supreme Council for Environment and Natural Reserves, Coast recruits were most common while previously dominant acroporids were rare. Guard and the Fisheries Dept are all responsible for enforcing these regulations. The large reservoir of surviving adult corals at depth seems to be assisting In the near future The Supreme Council for Environment and Natural Reserves, recovery but a shift in species composition is underway. The prognosis for plans to launch a project for the purpose of monitoring the Coral Reef in all Cosmoledo’s reefs is good, provided further warming does not kill colonies Qatari water. surviving at depth.More than 200 species of fish were recorded. Acanthurids were common, large and medium sized serranids were recorded at all sites and lutjanids and lethrinids were frequently sighted. Obligate corallivores Chaetodon trifascialis and Chaetodon trifasciatus were rare even at depths where coral cover was greater. Not a single shark was sighted. Temperature loggers were deployed at 4 sites to determine flow and residence time of warm water masses in the lagoon and on the reef slopes to examine vulnerability of different coral communities to climatic changes.

The Coral Reefs of Cambodia: Present State of Information and Status and Management of Coral Reefs in Indonesia Management Capacity Suharsono SUHARSONO* Kim SOUR*, L M CHOU, K P P TUN Jl. Raden Saleh No. 43 Jakarta 10330 Republic of Indonesia 186 Norodom Blvd., P.O. Box 582, Phnom Penh, Cambodia Kingdom of [email protected], [email protected] Cambodia The coral reefs of Indonesia especially in the central and east regions are the [email protected] most diverse in the worlds, with 82 genera and 590 species of corals. The much is known about Cambodia’s coral reefs because of a lack of research Indonesian archipelago contains the greatest recorded diversity for the genus of capacity. Coral reef sites have not been completely identified although they are Acropora (91 species) worldwide. The world highest diversity Acropora for a distributed in various localities, generally associated with offshore islands and single restricted locality Acropora (78 species) was recorded at Togian Islands rocky beds. Diversity studies to date indicate 111 hard coral species, 6 soft (178 species), central Sulawesi, while Raja Ampat Islands had the highest coral coral species and 9 species of seafans and seawhips. Recent surveys of coral diversity ever recorded (456 species). Results of the monitoring from 57 reefs in the Koh Sdach islands showed live coral cover ranging from 4 to 72% different localities throughout Indonesia show that 31% of coral reefs are with the poorer reefs showing signs of bleaching impact. The reefs are exposed classified as being in poor condition and 32% in excellent and good condition. to anthropogenic pressures including coastal development, coral collecting and Several areas show that coral reefs are improving, while other locations become destructive fishing. There is a general lack of public awareness on the worst. Anthropogenic threat are severe including run off and sediments from significance of coral reefs. Additionally, the absence of policies and laws land based activities, destructive fishing practice. Blast fishing in the main relevant to coral reef management, coupled with the lack of enforcement all caused of coral mortality.The Indonesian government has launched a coral reef point to an urgent need to enhance management and research capacity. In recent rehabilitation and management program in order to manage coral reefs since years, this capacity has slowly expanded through the facilitation of bilateral and 1999. The results of these program are increasing the awareness of the coastal regional initiatives. communities. A policy and strategy to manage and protect coral reefs has been set up. A manual for data base, monitoring, and information system established. There have been more than 15 provincial and district regulation established and the law enforcement has been implemented and destructive fishing practice has been significantly reduced. Establishment of village community groups for implementing alternative income generating activities using a village grant, there has been more than 74 different topics of training with more than 12.000 people trained to manage coral reef in effective way.

412 Poster 4-1 Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation 10th ICRS

Diversity and Status of Alcyonacean Fauna in Nallathanni Island, Gulf of How Much Reef Check Survey Method Is Important for India? Mannar Marine National Park, India Krishnamoorthy VENKATARAMAN* Chellasamy SURESHKUMAR*, Krishnamoorthy VENKATARAMAN 130, SANTHOME HIGH ROAD CHENNAI, 600 028 INDIA 130, SANTHOME HIGH ROAD CHENNAI, 600 028 INDIA [email protected] [email protected] Coral reefs are one of the most ancient, important, rich and dynamic ecosystems Nallathanni is one of the island of Keelakarai group in Gulf of Mannar National of India. They not only provide a sanctuary to a myriad of marine life but also Park. Soft corals come under the Phylum Coenterata, Class Anthozoa and Order play a key role in protecting the coastline from erosion. In addition, people Alcyonacea. It is second largest group of organisms in the coral reef living along the 8000 km long coastal stretch depend on coral reefs for their environment and play significant role in the coral reef ecology, provide food livelihood. The total area of coral reefs in India is estimated at 2,375 sq km. and shelter to other coral reef animals. The species richness and the abundance Unfortunately these are also some of the most threatened and little known coral of the Alcyonacean fauna were well known from the earlier reports. Very few reefs of the Indian Ocean. There are 208+ species of hard corals have been studies were conducted in Gulf of Mannar coral reef environment about soft reported so far within four major coral reefs of India viz. Gulf of Mannar and corals. The present study was conducted in Nallathanni island of Gulf of Kachchh, Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and as research Mannar Biosphere Reserve. The diversity of Alcyonacean fauna in the present continues, many more are expected to be discovered in the coming years. So study in Nallathanni Island shows the occurrence of 7 species under 2 genera far, only scientists were conducting the status surveys on coral reefs. There is and one family. The species such as, Lobophytum crassum, Lobophytum very little participation of volunteers to conduct surveys. Reasons may be due latilobatum, Sarcophyton glaucum and Sarcophyton crassocauleis abundant in to very little awareness created among the general public, lack of willingness this island. Status survey of Alcyonacean fauna in Nallathanni islands was and motivation due to various reasons and duplication of scientific works. conducted from the shoreline to back reefs using Line Intercept Transect Conservation of coral reefs are not given the top priority. Many scientific method. The status survey results show 12 % occurrence of Alcyonacean fauna training programmes are only directed towards the scientific community. in the Nallathanni Island. Remedial measures such as the capacity building and awareness programmes directed towards the common public as well as the policy makers should be the top priority. This may form the basis for conservation of coral reefs as well as the resources associated in the country. The reasons why simple methods such as Reef Check (RC) for status survey is necessary for India, the level of international support needed to introduce and conduct the surveys with NGOs and public are discussed in this paper.

Coral Reefs of Vietnam: Recent Status and Conservative Perspectives Status of Coral Reefs of Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, India Vo S TUAN, Hoang X BEN, Nguyen V LONG*, Phan K HOANG Krishnamoorthy VENKATARAMAN*, Jayakumar Balagurunathan ALFRED 01 Cau Da, Nha Trang city, Vietnam 130, SANTHOME HIGH ROAD CHENNAI, 600 028 INDIA [email protected] [email protected]

The surveys during 2002 - 2003 provided more information to confirm high The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (GoMBR) was established in 1989 and biodiversity of coral reefs in Vietnam with the records more than 300 reef it encompasses 21 coastal islands located between 8o49’ to 9O 15’ N latitude building coral species in some areas in the south coastal waters. The results of and 78O11’ to 79O 15’ E longitude on the southeast coast of India. It is one of coral reef monitoring at 10 sites, however, showed a negative figure of coral the richest coastal regions in India. A total of 82 species of corals belonging to reef status. Data obtained by Reef Check and AIMS techniques presented the 27 genera and 13 families have been reported from this area and the coral reefs dominance of reefs with poor and fair conditions of coral cover (18% and 30% are mostly of fringing type. During 2001 to 2003, Line Intercept Transect respectively at 48 monitored reefs). Abundance of invertebrate and fish surveys had been conducted in all the 21 islands to estimate the present status of indicators also showed poverty of reef economical organisms. Positive figure the coral reefs of this region. For the purpose of the survey GoMBR was was only recorded at some reefs in Ninh Thuan, Phu Quoc, Nam Du. As divided into three island groups such as Mandapam, Keelakarai and Tuticorin, presenting in previous status report, main threats to coral reefs included over- each group consisting of seven islands. The overall percentage of coral life catching and destructive fishing... Moreover, there were some abnormal forms amounted to 43.3% live coral; 44% dead coral and 11.3 % sand. Among phenomena happening during 2002 - 2003. Meanwhile coral bleaching did not the three groups of islands, Keelakarai had a higher percentage of live coral occur extensively as in 1998, there was the serious outbreak of Crown of thorn cover (49%) than the other two groups Mandapam (46%) and Tuticorin group starfish in Khanh Hoa coastal waters. Environment risk caused by algae bloom (35%). The reason for the dominance of massive corals over the other groups in killed almost coral reefs in Ca Na bay and the recovery is occurring slowly after GoMBR may be explained by the 1998-bleaching event. During the Maruch the event. Sedimentation is continuously considered as a strong impact in Ha 2003 a mild bleaching was noticed and the coral bleached recovered from the Long - Cat Ba islands with extensive threats to coral reefs. Recently, Vietnam effect. The fragile and sensitive branching coral was the most affected life form government and oversea agencies have supported to develop a network of group as a result of bleaching in this region is slowly recovering in all the island marine protected areas. Preliminary results of Hon Mun pilot marine protected groups. The recovery of coals from the 1998 bleaching and the changes in the project and initial activities of some new National Parks are creating status of the live coral cover in the GoMBR, level of threat to coral reefs, other perspective to manage MPAs with coral reefs as a target ecosystem. Local major developments on the capacity to conduct the studies, conservation and governments at number of sites are encouraging to build different models management measures taken by the government, the status of the associated suitable to their practices in coral reef management and wise use. National fauna are discussed. action plan for coral reef management is also developing in the framework of UNEP GEF / SCS project and will be approved by authorization.

413 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

Status of Coral Reefs in New Caledonia in 2004 Status of Coral Reefs in Thailand Laurent WANTIEZ*, Francois DEVINCK, Claire GARRIGUE, Sabrina VIRLY Thamasak YEEMIN* BP 4477, 98847 Noumea cedex New Caledonia Marine Biodversity Research Group, Department of Biology, Faculty of [email protected] Science, Ramkhamhaeng University, Huamark, Bangkok 10240 Kingdom of Thailand A monitoring initiative was launched in 1997, using Reef Check methods [email protected] adapted to the local context. This program contributes to the Reef Check network. The study area was limited to the Southern Province of New There are an estimated 153 km2 of coral reefs along the total coastline of 2,614 Caledonia, which funded the program. Surveys were completed in 1997, 1998, km and around 300 islands in Thai waters. These are classified in 4 distinct and 2001. In 2003 IFRECOR (French Initiative for Coral Reefs) funded a new areas with different oceanographic conditions: the inner part of the Gulf of phase of the program for 3 years, and the sampling zone has been extended to Thailand; the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand; the west coast of the Gulf of all New Caledonia reefs. The monitoring is now conducted by local Thailand; and along the coastline of the Andaman Sea. Three reef types can be communities, NGO and volunteers. Two facilitators have been employed to recognized: coral communities with no true reef structure; developing fringing reinforce capacities and willingness for monitoring on a long-term basis, as reefs; and early formation of fringing reefs. Several comprehensive reef survey resource persons for training and data processing. The analysis of the data programs covering over 400 sites in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea collected in 2003 is not finished yet. This abstract will be updated when the were carried out by governmental institutions and private agencies. In general, analysis is completed. The results presented at the present state of knowledge most reefs were rated good, fair or poor. Relatively small areas were classified concerned only the South Lagoon Marine Park. Inside the marine protected as excellent or very poor. Monitoring of reef fish was less extensive and areas of the Park butterflyfishes and commercial fishes (groupers, parrotfishes, needed more effort in order to provide clear patterns and trends. The first surgeonfishes and rabbitfishes) were present and common. Fish densities extensive coral bleaching phenomenon in the Gulf of Thailand occurred in remained relatively stable over the years with the exception of irregular grouper April-June 1998 and was the major cause of coral reef degradation. The mild and rabbitfish aggregations, which were not always recorded. Commercial coral bleaching in 2003 was also clearly observed in the Gulf of Thailand and invertebrates (giant clams, trochus, sea cucumbers) were also common inside the Andaman Sea. Adaptation to bleaching of several coral species was evident. the protected areas, and crown-of-torns were recorded in some locations. The Continued studies on coral recruitment are required to predict recovery density of these invertebrates remained relatively stable since 1997. A potential. The reefs support a variety of human activities, especially tourism significant decreased in coral cover was recorded on some stations since 1997. and fisheries-relates uses. Tourism activities, sedimentation and wastewater These modifications were attributed to spatially limited crown-of-torn pollution associated with rapid coastal development are recent and increasing outbreaks in 2000 and 2001. On the other stations, after a decreased recorded in severe problems for the next decade. Marine National Parks will play a major 1998, coral cover remained stable or increased notably. These results indicated role for coral reef management and conservation. that the status of New Caledonian coral reefs was satisfactory in 2001 in the South Lagoon Marine Park.

Status of the Coral Reefs of the Semporna Islands (Sabah, Malaysia) and Coral Reef Monitoring for Management in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. Development of an Interactive Map-based Information System for Summary of Results 2000-2003 Management Purposes Sofyan A YOTOLEMBAH*, Abigail M MOORE, Samliok NDOBE, Elizabeth M WOOD*, Andrew N DAVIES, Frances DIPPER Harto DARWINTO Hollybush, Chequers Lane, Eversley, Hook, Hants, RG27 0NY United Jl Tendean No 7, Palu 94111, Central Sulawesi Republic of Indonesia Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [email protected] ewood@globalnet,co.uk Yayasan Adi Citra Lestari (YACL) is a local NGO based in Palu, Central The Semporna Islands are situated on the fringes of the Philippines-Indonesia- Sulawesi, a Province with over 2000 km of coastline and many small islands, Papua New Guinea triangle which is acknowledged as having the highest most fringed by coral reefs, with numerous barrier reefs and atolls. In 2000, diversity of marine species throughout the Indo-Pacific. The Semporna Island when YACL was a local partner in Reefs at Risk SE Asia, there was little or no reefs are very varied in their structural diversity, include a wide range of data for most reefs, and no locally based monitoring capacity. YACL initiated a habitats and exhibit high species diversity. The area is of significant biological capacity building programme for coral reef monitoring, including training in and economic value, but is faced with a number of problems. The main impacts SCUBA and GCRMN methods (Manta Tow, Reef Check and LIT). Supported are from over-exploitation of reef resources, fish blasting, cyanide fishing and by The David & Lucille Packard Foundation, UNEP EAS/RCU, NOAA, PADI predation by crown-of-thorns starfish. There has also been some damage from Project AWARE and the Reef Check Foundation, the result is a committed coral bleaching and pollution. The 350 sq km area, including over 100km of survey team recruited from the local community. Data has been collected and reef front, is scheduled to become a Marine Park and a management plan has submitted to local, national and international stakeholders. A summary of data been prepared. Large amounts of data have been collected over the past 5 years, collected over the period 2000-2003 is displayed, in map and graphic formats and it is vital that this information is readily available so that the area can be together with examples of data application. The data show: (i) most reefs in effectively managed. . A map-based, electronic information and planning average to poor condition, (ii) threats increasing in most areas, (iii) most reefs system has been developed, the aim of which is to provide a logical and capable of natural recovery if destructive actions cease, (iv) regional variations organised system in which biological, physical, socio-economic and other in both natural conditions and major threats. Time-series data from fourteen features of the area are stored and linked together. The system can be easily permanent transects installed at four long-term monitoring sites is presented: interrogated and updated, and will help to inform and guide managers. The two protected areas with marine components, Pulau Pasoso Provincial level information system includes the following:a) Details of survey and monitoring Game Reserve and Tanjung Api Strict Nature Reserve; Palu Bay (YACL base sites, with summary information on reef profiles and features, b) type and and main training area); and Labuana (community awareness programme distribution of reef biotopes (habitats and their associated communities of including ecotourism). Major changes are highlighted, together with likely species), c) distribution and abundance of key species, d) resource use and causes. Base-line survey data for Tete B (a control area for Tanjung Api socio-economic data, e) evaluation of reef sites based on criteria including Reserve) and locations where data was required for planning purposes in biodiversity, rarity (species, communities or habitats), f) existing or potential collaboration with other projects and organisations is summarised, and regional value (extractive and non-extractive uses) impacts and overall health, g) variations highlighted. Management needs and goals.

414 Poster 4-1 Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation 10th ICRS

Status of Coral Reefs of Southwest Pacific: Fiji, Nauru, New Caledonia, Regional Coral Reef Monitoring Program and Status Report in the South Samoa, Solomon Islands Tuvalu & Vanuatu in June 2004 East Pacific Countries, GCRMN Polynesia Mana Node Reuben SULU* Caroline VIEUX, Dave FISK, Peter PETELO, Taratau KIRATA, Brendon PASISI, Laucala Bay Road, Suva, Republic of Fiji Antoine NIA, Annie AUBANEL*, Mary POWER, Bernard SALVAT [email protected] B.P. 1013, Moorea, French Polynesia [email protected] Significant efforts are underway in the Southwest Pacific GCRMN node to mitigate current threats to coral reefs. This paper provides a snap shot of the The Cook islands, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Niue, Tokelau, Tonga and Wallis status of coral reefs in these countries as at June 2004 and a summary of the and Futuna progess in order to assess coral reef health and exploitation on a initiatives undertaken by various communities, governments, organisations and regional basis (Polynesia mana node). The 7 independent or autonomous agencies to protect and conserve coral reefs. countries or territories including 347 islands with coral reefs are half a million inhabitants whose 80% are concentrated in 7 islands urban centers. Monitorings programmes are effective or on the way in French Polynesia, Wallis and Futuna, Cook islands, Tonga and Tokelau and will be developped in other islands. A major bleaching event occured in 2002 with up to 50% coral mortality in Tokelau but minor one in French Polynesia. This bleaching has also been reported in Kiribati in the Tarawa lagoon but its extent is unknown. In Tokelau, overfishing has depleted most of the lagoon and slope areas in reef fishes and giant clams. Touristic development in Kiritimati (Christmas Island) and land reclamation for building in Tarawa are a threat for reef health in Kiribati and are to be monitored. Niue has been struck by the cyclone Heta early this year and 90% of the corals have been devastated on the west coast. Rarotonga (Cook) is facing a COT outbreak affecting hard corals. Marine protected areas are planned in many islands of the Polynesia mana node and reef monitoring will be developped in these areas. Only French Polynesia has taken part to the Reef Check program in the node with 13 sites monitored in Bora-Bora and Moorea. The GCRMN node Polynesia mana, South East Pacific, plan to set up a regional database under coordination and/or cooperation with the South West Pacfic node (University of South Pacific coordination), the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) , The International Coral Reef Action Network (ICRAN, ICRI) and Reefbase of the World Fish Center (WFC).

Status of Coral Reefs in Micronesia Consolidation of the STA-GCRMN Regional Node and Status of Coral Jason KUARTEI* Reefs in Southern Tropical America PO Box 1811 Republic of Palau Jaime GARZON-FERREIRA*, Jorge CORTES, Aldo CROQUER, Hector GUZMAN, [email protected] Zelinda LEAO, Alberto RODRIGUEZ-RAMIREZ Cerro de Punta Betin, Zona Portuaria, Santa Marta Republic of Colombia The US Affiliated and Freely Associated islands of the tropical Pacific include [email protected] American Samoa and the islands of Micronesia (excluding Kiribati). Most lie north of the equator, except American Samoa, which is considered part of Since 1999 five countries (Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama and Polynesia, but has the high coral diversity and cultural dependence on coral Venezuela) are cooperating for developing coral reef monitoring in Southern reefs similar to Micronesia. Micronesia is made up of a group of small tropical Tropical America (STA) under the framework of GCRMN, the support of islands and atolls in the central and Indo-west pacific, and encompasses an area UNEP-CAR/RCU and the coordination of th Institute for Marine and Coastal of approximately 11.6 million km2. The vast majority of their area is ocean, Research (INVEMAR, Colombia). Several actions have been carried out that with a landmass just over 3000km2. From east to west, the US affiliated and have conducted to the consolidation of the STA Node: (1) a study of the Freely Associated states include: American Samoa, the Republic of the capacity and needs for reef monitoring; (2) establishment of formal agreements Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Commonwealth of the between INVEMAR and the other institutions; (3) support of monitoring Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the Republic of Palau. As a region, activities during 2000, 2002 and 2003; (4) expansion of monitoring programs in Micronesia possesses a high diversity of corals and associated organisms and all countries; (5) preparation of regional reef status reports and contribution to the human population is heavily dependent on coral reefs and related resources the global reports published in 2000 and 2002; and (6) production of a strategic both economically and culturally. The coral reefs of American Samoa and plan (2004-2013) and a 5-years project proposal. The STA region includes reefs Micronesia range in condition from nearly pristine to seriously damaged by in Pacific, Caribbean and Atlantic waters, and most of them are strongly human disturbance and climate change. The human impacts include influenced by continental runoff. There has been major damage to coral reefs of overfishing, ship groundings, sedimentation and coastal pollution. In the past, this region in the last 35 years that has been caused by a mix of natural agents human impacts were largely related to the size of the resident populations, and direct human impacts. Nevertheless, significant coral cover can still be however fishing fleets from other nations have taken their toll on even the most found at several reef locations of both Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Monitoring remote islands and atolls. Micronesia is a highly rated scuba diving destination data suggest that reefs of the STA region have not undergone noticeable and rapid tourism development including new roads, hotels, golf courses and changes or damages during the last two years (2002-2003). Live coral cover in personal watercraft, is having substantial effect on coastal reefs on some the Caribbean averaged between 1.4% (Playa Caiman) and 50.3% (Cayo Norte) islands. In the last two years, there have been monitoring activities in the in Venezuela, between 18% (San Andres) and 41% (Uraba) in Colombia and islands north of CNMI by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association between 8% (Manzanillo) and 26% (Cahuita) in Costa Rica. Pacific reefs (NOAA) and new information is now being collected for this area. showed both low and high levels of coral cover, ranging between 57% (Utria) and 75% (Gorgona) in Colombia, between 6% (Coco) and 8% (Ballena) in Costa Rica, and between 2% (Canal de Afuera) and 54% (Iguana) in Panama.

415 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

Report on the Activities of the GCRMN Northern Caribbean and Atlantic Status of Coral Reefs in Iranian Coastal Area (NCA) Node in 2003 A. MAGHSOUDLOU, P EGHTESADI* Dulcie M LINTON, Loureene A JONES*, Peter E EDWARDS No.9., Etemaadzadeh St.,Fatemi Ave.,Tehran, 1411813389 Islamic Republic of Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica, Iran [email protected] [email protected];[email protected]

Through funding from the ICRAN project (UNEP-CEP) the CCDC has been Persian Gulf is one of the most extreme environments for coral growth with an actively encouraging greater coral monitoring and reporting among node impoverished reef biodiversity compared to Indian Ocean. Coral reefs in the countries. A survey of institutions identified financial and human resource Iranian coastal waters are found around 16 islands from the northwest to the limitations as the main constraints to sustained monitoring. A draft document southeast and also some limited areas around Nayband Bay. The islands located for sustaining the node over a five-year period has been produced.The CCDC near the Straits of Hormuz are influenced by less saline, nutrient-rich upwelled spearheaded the formation of the Jamaica Coral Reef Monitoring Network waters of the Gulf of Oman. The Inner Islands tolerate the most saline (JCRMN) on June 27, 2003. Seventeen individuals, representing 12 conditions and coral communities growing around these islands are mainly in organizations agreed on the development of an organized approach to shallow waters and protected areas. In this report, general patterns of coral monitoring of coral reefs in Jamaica, with south coast reefs as priority. Reef distribution as well as the health status of them with emphasis on results of Check training and data collection workshops were conducted during INCO’s current yearly monitoring will be discussed.The coral types September and November in Negril and in Port Royal, Jamaica. Approximately chracterestic along much of the Iranian coasts are fringing reefs although some 30 individuals representing a number of different institutions and organizations patchy corals are found in some of the more sheltered bays in the Gulf of participated. A similar Reef Check training and data collection workshop was Oman. According to available data the Khark and Kharku and Larak islands held in Haiti. Data from these surveys have been submitted to Reef Check and have a relatively high coral coverage. There are about 30 species of hard coral preliminary reports produced. JCRMN activities climaxed with a survey of the in this region, aviidae with 6 genera and 8 species is most diverse, and reefs of Portland Bight Protected Area, Jamaica. Twenty-five participants Acroporidae is the most abundant among scleractinian coral. During the El collected data from 6 reef sites during a 4-day exercise from December 4-7, Nino of 1998 mass mortality had occurred in coral species particularly in the 2003. This initial survey will be followed up in 2004 with more detailed Kish Island. Fortunately, recovery through coral growth has already started at surveys of these reef sites as well as of others in Jamaica and other node Kish Island mainly for Acropora species, which were damaged during the countries. Project funding is being sought to continue activities in node above phenomenon. A moderate state Yellow-Band Disease was observed for countries such as Haiti, the Dominican Republic, the Turks and Caicos islands, the first time at Farur Island in the year 1995. In the following year, a low where coral reef monitoring data is scarce. Additionally, if funding is available, incidence of the disease was also observed in Kish Island. Among other natural it is envisaged that a workshop of NCA node participants will be conducted in impacts, Acanthaster planci had some little effects on coral, particularly in 2004 to allow sharing on best practices in coral reef monitoring and to Larak and Lesser Tonb Islands.Key words:Coral Reefs, Iran, Status, encourage collaboration and agreement on building capacity to monitor reefs within node countries.

Status of Coral Reefs in the Red Sea Status of Coral Reefs in East and North Asia (China, Taiwan, Korea and Moshira HASSAN*, Georg A HEISS, Mohammed M A KOTB Japan) The American University in Cairo, Biology Dept.; Cairo 11511 Arab Republic Tadashi KIMURA*, Put O ANG, Chang-Feng DAI, Huang HUI, Jong-Geel JE of Egypt 3-10-10 Shitaya, Taito, Tokyo 110-8676 Japan [email protected] [email protected]

The status of coral reefs bordering the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden is generally China, Korea and Japan belonging East and North Asian are located at the north good, with live hard coral cover averaging 20-50%. However, data show recent edge of coral distribution of Pacific. Because of connectivity with the decreases in live coral cover. The highest average live hard coral cover was Philippines by the flow of the Kuroshio Current, coral diversity is quite high in recorded in Yemen (53%), despite the poor development of reefs, compared to Japan. On the contrary, there are patchy distribution of coral communities more complex reefs in the Central and Northern Red Sea. Edible sea cucumbers along China and Korea where some branch flows from Kuroshio Current. are currently being fished in most countries (legally as well as illegally) for Coral reefs well develop from Nansha Island to Hainan in the South China Sea. export to Southeast Asia. Density reached from almost zero in Egypt and Sudan Coral reefs also develop along the southern coast of Taiwan comparing with up to 3 individuals per 100m2 in Yemen.Fish populations have declined slightly northern coast, which has patchy coral communities. In the north of this region, and several outbreaks of COTS were reported. Some local bleaching events and soft corals are dominant with a few stony coral species around the Jeju Island at an increase in bioeroding organisms such as the urchin Diadema setosum and southern coast of Korea the coral eating gastropods Drupella sp. and Coralliophila sp. have been Major threats on Japanese corals are crown-of-thorns starfish, bleaching, reported from several areas. Some of the most damaged reefs were seen in Drupella, and soil runoff from land. A large number of corals were killed by Yemen and Djibouti in the Southern Red Sea. The highest numbers of butterfly sedimentation after heavy rain in 2001 and the starfish is increasing in number fish were found on Egyptian Red Sea reefs (>8/100m2). In general, the Red Sea since 2000. China and Korea also have serious disturbances of environment by shows comparatively low levels of human impact, as most of the coastline is marine tourism and coastal development. Destructive fishing practice and soil sparsely populated. Threats to coral reefs differ within the region, and are runoff are major causes of coral disturbance in Hainan Island and Taiwan. continuously increasing with the increasing rate of coastal development. The Coral destruction by tourists is another threat in Hainan Island and Korea. impacts are most obvious around the larger ports and major tourist resorts. The Against these threats, China, Korea and Japan begin to grapple with the major threats are land filling, dredging, sedimentation, sewage discharge and integrated coastal environment conservation including coral ecosystem. effluents from desalination plants. In tourism areas, there is physical damage by Moreover, paying attention to marine protected area, that number is increased tourists and boat anchors as well as other impacts related to urbanization. gradually to use it as an important tool for the coastal management in China, Fishing pressure is constantly increasing throughout the region to satisfy Taiwan and Korea. For exchange of own experiences and information, demands of growing and more affluent populations. Deterioration was also cooperation among the countries of this region is being expected to be made found away from coastal developments, where it is probable that COTS and more active with becoming more strong, however, there are still issues other natural disturbances have damaged the reefs. remained on establishment of local network system and effective management practice to utilize protected areas in these countries.

416 Poster 4-1 Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation 10th ICRS

Coral Reefs of Southeast Asia: 2004 Status Report Status and Management of South Asian Coral Reefs Karenne P P TUN*, A. CABANBAN, L M CHOU, Sour K PHILREEFS, Arjan RAJASURIYA*, K VENKATARAMAN, Hussein ZAHIR, J R B ALFRED, Vo S T SUHARSONO, T. YEEMIN M A HAQUE PO Box 500, GPO, 10670 Penang, Malaysia Crow Island, Mattakkuliya, Colombo 15 Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri [email protected] Lanka [email protected] National reef monitoring programmes continued throughout the region and were maintained at previous levels or expanded. Capacity transfer was Coral reefs in South Asia were severely damaged due to the 1998 coral- increased to countries or provinces to involve them fully in regional reef status bleaching event in the Indian Ocean. Post bleaching recovery of coral reefs has assessments. Various bilateral and major regional initiatives in recent years been variable. In the Gulf of Mannar coast of India live coral cover has helped to enhance monitoring and management capacity. These include the increased. In the Lakshadweep Islands there is little recovery in the shallow ICRAN project, which focuses on the transfer of reef management capacity waters and the only appreciable live coral exists below the depth of 20m. There from successful demonstration sites to target sites in need of such capacity in is no evidence of bleaching impact in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In the the region. The region’s coral reefs continue to face widespread impacts from Maldives there is better recovery and overall reef condition in the southern human activities and are clearly in need of greater management. Monitoring atolls with variable recovery in the rest of the country. Widespread bleaching data indicate significant improvements in the condition of reefs under effective was reported in the Maldives and Gulf of Mannar during April-May 2003; management by government agencies or communities. Public education, however, quick recovery has been observed with minimal mortality. High rates awareness raising and community involvement remain important activities that of recruitment indicate good potential for recovery in the central and southern contribute positively to reef protection. atolls in the Maldives. In Sri Lanka most inshore coral habitats on the west coast have indicated poor recovery whilst there is good recovery with rapid re- colonisation by branching Acropora species in the south coast. Recovery is patchy in the Bar Reef Marine Sanctuary in the Gulf of Mannar. Monitoring and management capacity have improved in the region. The Department of Environment and Forests has formed a Gulf of Mannar Trust. Legislation has been improved to protect corals and many other species under the Wildlife Act of India. In the Maldives a protected area system management protocol and an Atoll Ecosystem Management Project has been developed. Several legal instruments with respect to marine and coastal environment has been developed and reviewed. In Sri Lanka, two new Marine National Parks have been declared in 2003 and Special Area Management Programmes at three coral reef areas are being implemented. Status of coral reefs in the region since 2003 and their management are discussed.

Coral Reef Monitoring in the South Western Indian Ocean Islands Status of Coral Reefs in East Africa, 2004 "COI/GCRMN" Node - Year 2003 Results and First Trends David O OBURA* Lionel BIGOT, Said AHAMADA, Jude BIJOUX, Meera KOONJUL, Tara LYNCH, P.O.BOX 10135, Mombasa Republic of Kenya Jean MAHARAVO*, Sabrina MEUNIER, Marylene MOYNE-PICARD, [email protected] Jean Pascal QUOD This paper will summarize the findings of biophysical and socio-economic ARVAM - 14 rue du stade de l’Est - 97490 Ste Clotilde - La Reunion - monitoring of coral reefs conducted during 2002-2004, and as reported in FRANCE French Southern Territories national GCRMN reports to be prepared in 2004. East African coral reefs that [email protected] were severely impacted by the El Nino Southern Oscillation of 1997-98 have A regional monitoring network of the GCRMN was set up for the South subsequently experienced a variety of recovery trajectories, varying from high Western Indian Ocean islands (Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, La Reunion recovery to further degradation. Surveys in the Songo Songo archipelago of and Seychelles) in 1998 coinciding with the circum-tropical mass coral Southern Tanzania in early 2003 revealed reefs that potentially experienced bleaching event.The ongoing 3 years regional project which is financed by the negligible bleaching in 1998, perhaps due to shading by consistently high Global Environment Facility (World Bank) and the European Union aim to :- turbidity levels from the Rufiji River. A moderate bleaching event was increase coral reef monitoring in the SWIO islands,- strengthen the capacity of documented from central Tanzania to northern Kenya (and in the Seychelles) in national networks to provide data,- advice stakeholders for marine resource management.Principal objective of 2003 annual network report are to early 2003 that resulted in negligible to low mortality. Socio-economic recapitulate the annual regional activities linked to reef monitoring. More monitoring of coral reefs has been built up in 2002-2003 as a GCRMN activity, precisely, it aims to analyse actual coral reef health situation on reference sites involving 4 sites in East Africa, resulting in the development of a manual and and general trends (1998-2003) of coral reef recovery and take stock of the methodology to be applied more broadly in the region. New Marine Protected various regional and national actions carried-out by the networks.The number Areas (MPAs) incorporating coral reef areas designated or instituting of monitoring stations covered by this project has increased from 43 stations in management in 2002-2004 include: the Quirimbass National Park 1998 to 88 stations in 2003, with more than 20 stations located in Marine Protected Areas.Data (benthos, fish, etc) are processed with a database system (Mozambique), Quilalea and xxx reserves (private, Mozambique), and Mnazi called”COREMO II” used by all technical stakeholders. This software is Bay-Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park (Tanzania). These and a number of fisheries flexible to cater for various methodological protocol (Reef Check, GCRMN, and community-oriented initiatives, and management effectiveness and capacity “expert” level) and allow several possibilities (screen consulting, printing of building regional programmes are progressively increasing the area of coral graphics, export data, etc). It has been recognized by Reef Base as a powerful reefs brought under management regimes, and increasing local to national and evolutive tool for monitoring and help decision making.On many sites, first capacities to manage coral reefs and threatening resource use patterns. trends show spectacular increase of coral cover recovery, particularly in Comoros (Moheli island). More often, situation is gradual with slow increase Nonetheless, increasing regional coordination is desirable, as well as expansion (Seychelles, Madagascar), or show a good stability of coral cover (Reunion, of the scope of coral reef conservation and management through collaborative Mauritius).Information gathered under this programme is helping Coastal Zone management schemes to attempt to approach the goal set by the World Parks managers to conceive concrete actions in conservation, management and Congress of 30% of marine areas effectively managed by 2010. sustainable use of the Indian Ocean reefs.

417 10th ICRS Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation Poster 4-1

CORDIO a Regional Initiative for Monitoring and Research in Central Reefbase: A Global Information System on Coral Reefs and Western Indian Ocean Marco NOORDELOOS*, James K OLIVER, Nasir Bin NAYAN, Yusri Bin YUSUF, Olof LINDEN*, David OBURA, David SOUTER, Rolph PAYET, Moi Khim TAN, Calvin FOO, Dilla Binti Mohd Shukri SHAHRIYAH Dan WILHELMSSON PO BOX 500, Bayan Lepas, 11680 Penang Malaysia PO Box 500, S-201 24 Malmo, Sweden [email protected] [email protected] ReefBase (http://www.reefbase.org) is a global information system on coral Elevated water temperatures associated with the 1997/98 El Nino caused reefs, and was developed by the WorldFish Center and the International Coral widespread bleaching of coral reefs around the world. The reefs of the Central Reef Action Network (ICRAN). This online database provides quality and Western Indian Ocean were severely affected. The CORDIO project was information on the location, status, threats, and management of coral reefs in launched in January 1999 in order to assess the impacts of the acute phase of nearly 100 coral reef countries and territories. ReefBase serves as the central bleaching. CORDIO was initiated as a regional initiative supporting activities in database for the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) and 11 countries. Funding was provided by Sweden, Finland, the Netherlands and ICRAN, and continues to provide valuable information services to managers, WWF. These activities yielded data from several monitoring stations in most of policy makers, researchers, conservationists, educators, and students around the these 11 countries during 1999. In several cases, data from previous years world.Through its central function within the GCRMN and continued monitoring were also available. Most of the research is carried out by local collaboration with numerous coral reef organizations, ReefBase is focused on experts in each country. Follow-up research conducted during 1999 showed that producing the key statistics and data summaries for coral reef status reports on the mortality of corals on reefs along East Africa, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and the national, regional, and global scales. In addition, ReefBase stores over 20,000 Maldives ranged between of 50 to 90 %. CORDIO has since supported long- references (many of which can be downloaded), providing access to a wealth of term studies in most countries of the region. These studies show a mixed management-relevant publications that are often difficult to access otherwise. picture. In several areas, significant recovery is now underway, while in other ReefBase”s online Geographic Information System (GIS), allows for display of areas very little recovery has occurred. Research also shows that the diversity of a range of coral reef related datasets on interactive maps. With continued many reefs has changed significantly since 1998, and that an evolution appears development of contents and functionality, ReefBase aims to facilitate informed to be taking place. This evolution may result in a shift from reefs dominated by management of coral reefs, and ultimately benefit poor people in developing certain groups (such as Acropora) to reefs where other species dominate. countries who depend on these resources for food, income, and livelihoods. Research under the CORDIO project will continue to carry out monitoring activities on reefs in the region where long-term data exist. In addition, CORDIO is becoming more involved in research on other stress factors affecting the survival of coral reefs, and on research related to management of reefs in the context of integrated coastal area management.

Coral Reef Monitoring- Which Methods? Monitoring for Management Using Reef Check Jos HILL* Gregor HODGSON* James Cook University, QLD 4811 Australia 1362 Hershey Hall, Institute of the Environment, Mailcode 95 1496 United [email protected] States of America [email protected] Coral reefs around the world are at risk from many threats. Monitoring the ecology of the reefs and socioeconomics of stakeholders is necessary to identify Even in small countries, the number of individual sites that should be monitored the nature of these threats and feasible solutions. Different management to obtain a reliable estimate of coral reef status is on the order of 30 to 50. In questions require different levels of monitoring intensity, data and detail. No large countries, this number would expand to hundreds of sites and in some single methodology will address all aspects deemed relevant and there is cases over 1000. The reality is that few governments have been or will be insufficient advice to help managers decide which methods they should use. willing to pay for this level of monitoring using highly detailed monitoring Unfortunately lack of standardised protocols for addressing particular questions protocols and monitoring teams comprised of coral reef ecologists. This is why has led to a proliferation of survey methods, surveyed variables and variable many governments around the world have turned to Reef Check, as the lowest definitions in different regions. This makes comparisons between areas cost method of monitoring reefs. The advantages of Reef Check are that the difficult. We review the different methods, the extent of their use and their method is now a global standard, is extremely rapid, can be carried out by advantages and limitations and provide advice to managers on the best method trained volunteers, and a new website will soon allow on-line, automated to suit their needs. comparisons between reefs by time and location. By involving the community in monitoring, Reef Check builds support for government conservation initiatives. More importantly, Reef Check has been shown to be highly effective as a tool for judging conservation success at Marine Protected Areas in all tropical oceans. Of the 101 coral reef countries, the 30 or so that are not yet part of the Reef Check/GCRMN network are invited to appoint coordinators so that a complete picture of the health of the world’s reefs can be tracked and appropriate managment actions taken.

418 Poster 4-1 Status of Coral Reefs of the World 1994, 2004 and 2014: Recommendations from 80 Nations for Remediation 10th ICRS

Status of Coral Reefs of the World: 2004, the Road to Recovery? Clive R WILKINSON* PO BOX 772, TOWNSVILLE 4810, AUSTRALIA [email protected]

The status of coral reefs has declined since the first global assessments of the mid 1980s and early 1990s through three parallel destructive forces. Reefs are damaged by direct human impacts of over- and destructive fishing, sediment and nutrient pollution and damaging shoreline modifications; from outbreaks of coral and fish diseases and predators such as the crown-of-thorns starfish, all of which may be exacerbated by human activities; and the more recent global climate change impacts of coral bleaching mortality and the potential for damage from rising concentrations of carbon dioxide. The major El Nino/La Nina event of 1998 resulted in the near destruction of approximately 16% of the worlds reefs, however about half of these now show encouraging recovery, particularly those in well managed MPAs. However, assessments by the GCRMN, World Resources Institute, Reef Check, CORDIO, AGRRA and ReefBase show an increasing rate of direct human impacts with rising populations resulting in major damage to reefs in Eastern Africa, mainland South Asia, Southeast Asia and the wider Caribbean. There are, however, major national, and international activities by governments and NGOs to conserve coral reefs, which are showing encouraging results in reversing the decline over larger coral reef areas with greater recognition of the value of community involvement. This session summarises 80 national status reports documenting greater efforts that are resulting in the sustainable conservation of many coral reefs. All this could be jeopardised if the present rate of global climate change continues and results in more coral bleaching episodes like those of 1998. The predictions are cautiously optimistic. Cold water coral reefs are finally gaining recognition just as destructive deep sea trawling is causing havoc to these slow growing structures. These are now added to the ecosystems in need of urgent conservation.

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