formal _phase_ report seychelles - mahe 002- june 2009

8/14/2019 Formal _Phase_ Report Seychelles - Mahe 002- June 2009

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Global Vision International,

Seychelles - Mah Report Series No. 002

ISSN 1751-2255 (Print)

GVI Seychelles Mah

Marine Conservation Expedition

Phase Report 002

April June 2009


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GVI Seychelles Mah/Marine Conservation Expedition Report 002

Submitted in whole to

Global Vision International

Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA)

Produced by

Lindsay Sullivan Science Coordinator

And

Tim Kirkpatrick Country Director Genevieve Gammage Expedition Manager

Ben Herington Expedition staff Rachel Mowll Expedition staff

Hazel Long Expedition staff Colin Watson Expedition staff

Adriano Schonenberger Expedition Member Kyle Breen Expedition Member

Alice Walker Expedition Member Lila Brown Expedition Member

Amy Mickel Expedition Member Thomas Schonenberger Expedition Member

Antonia Stackelberg Expedition Member Niamh Kelly Expedition Member

Christina Leggett Expedition Member Norma Colmenares Expedition Member

Christine Knutsson Expedition Member Orla Fleming Expedition Member

David Fauchier Expedition Member Philip Ollerton Expedition Member

David Sexton Expedition Member Pip Churchyard Expedition Member

Elizabeth Wollen Expedition Member Richard Vollenberg Expedition Member

Emma Spurs Expedition Member Ryan Shelley Expedition Member

Gemma Turner Expedition Member Scott Meyer Expedition Member

Greg Vicary Expedition Member Shanna Nellis Expedition Member

Jeffry Nagy Expedition Member Thomas Shepherd Expedition MemberJessica Toms Expedition Member Tom Cripps Expedition Member

Kim Locraft Expedition Member Zoe Carwardine Expedition Member

GVI Seychelles - Mah/Marine Conservation Expedition

Address: GVI c/o SNPA, PO Box 1240, Victoria, Mah, SeychellesEmail: [email protected]

Web page: http://www.gvi.co.uk and http://www.gviusa.com


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Global Vision International 2009 i

Executive SummaryThe 20th 10-week phase of the Seychelles Global Vision International (GVI) Expedition on

Mah has now been completed. This report summarises the science and local capacity

building programmes conducted during the phase, from April 3rd to June 12th 2009.

Underwater visual census (UVC) surveys were conducted to assess the reef at 18 sites

around the North West coast of the island of Mah, the largest and most populated in the

Seychelles group. Line Intercept Transects (LITs) were used as a measure of benthic

assemblage and belt transects were carried out to assess the diversity of coral and of

certain invertebrates. Some changes were made to the LIT technique used on previous

phases. It is expected that this change will reduce the impact of diver selection and

therefore more accurately represent the benthic assemblage.

Overall the results indicate a decline in coral cover since the last surveys in October

December 2008. Contributing factors may include the change in methodology techniques

and high water temperatures, however further investigation is required.

Bleaching of coral was observed to have increased at some of the sites monitored,

particularly within the Baie Ternay Marine Park, however as there is currently no

quantitative assessment of bleaching level this could not be viewed objectively. Plans

have been drawn up to include a measure of bleaching in the next phase of coral surveys.

Several sightings of whale sharks were made, with the details of the observations

documented and passed to the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS). Weekly

plankton samples were collected and passed to MCSS to assist in their ongoing whale

shark research. Several Expedition Members took part in a Crown of Thorns starfish

removal program coordinated by MCSS; more than 500 starfish were removed from a reef

on the South of Mah. In line with a regional drive in sea surface temperature research,

GVI also assisted MCSS in the deployment of data loggers at two depths at two different

sites. Plans have been made to replace the loggers every three months going forward.

While this phase has not coincided with the turtle nesting season, research has continued

into the foraging behaviour and energy budgets of turtles with Baie Ternay Marine Park.

Other projects continued this phase included lessons with the children from the

International School of the Seychelles on a weekly basis, and a lot of work invested in

development of the GVI base on Curieuse, in preparation for its launch as a full expedition.


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Global Vision International 2009 ii

Table of ContentsExecutive Summary ......................................................................................................... i1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 42 Reef Survey Programme ........................................................................................ 6

2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................. 62.2 Aim .............................................................................................................. 7

2.2.1 Species list ........................................................................................... 72.2.2 Training ................................................................................................ 8

2.3 Methodology ................................................................................................ 92.3.1 Line Intercept Transects (LITs) ............................................................. 92.3.2 Coral Diversity Belt Transects .............................................................. 92.3.3 Invertebrate Abundance & Diversity Belt Transects .............................. 92.3.4 Layout of transects ............................................................................. 102.3.5 Environmental Parameters ................................................................. 10

2.4 Results ....................................................................................................... 112.4.1 Surveys completed ............................................................................. 112.4.2 Reported coral cover .......................................................................... 112.4.3 Coral diversity .................................................................................... 162.4.4 Invertebrate abundance and diversity ................................................. 17

2.5 Discussion ................................................................................................. 192.5.1 Benthic assemblage as assessed by LITs .......................................... 192.5.2 Coral diversity .................................................................................... 222.5.3 Invertebrate abundance and diversity ................................................. 232.5.4 Coral bleaching .................................................................................. 232.5.5 New coral genera ............................................................................... 23

3 Additional Ecosystem Monitoring .......................................................................... 243.1 Crown of Thorns ........................................................................................ 243.2 Turtles ........................................................................................................ 25

3.2.1 Incidental sightings ............................................................................. 253.2.2 Beach patrols for nesting turtles ......................................................... 253.2.3 In-water surveys of turtle behaviour .................................................... 26

3.3 Cetacean sightings .................................................................................... 27


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iii

3.4 Whale shark sightings ................................................................................ 273.5 Plankton sampling ...................................................................................... 283.6 Temperature loggers .................................................................................. 28

4 Non-survey Programmes ...................................................................................... 294.1 Community Development ........................................................................... 29

4.1.1 National Scholarship Programme ....................................................... 294.1.2 Working with the International School ................................................. 29

4.2 Curieuse Island Satellite Camp .................................................................. 305 Literature cited ...................................................................................................... 316 Appendices ........................................................................................................... 32List of Figures

Figure 2.1 Location and substrate type of GVI survey sites Figure 2.2 Layout of transects at each survey site, where the shoreline is represented by

the top of the figure and distance from shore indicates increasing depth Figure 2.3 Mean percentage coral cover SE at the carbonate and the granitic sites, for

each survey period from 2005 to 2009Figure 2.4 Mean percentage cover of algae and of epibenthic organisms at the granitic

reef sites surveyed, for each survey period from 2005 to 2009Figure 2.5 Mean percentage cover of algae and of epibenthic organisms at the carbonate

reef sites surveyed, for each survey period from 2005 to 2009. Figure 2.6 Mean percentage cover of live hard coral at the shallow sites and at the deep

sites, for each survey period from 2007 to 2009Figure 2.7 Mean percentage cover of live hard coral for sites on different reef types and in

different depth zones, for each survey period from 2007 - 2009Figure 2.8 Mean coral genera richness SE for the carbonate and for the granitic sites, for

each survey period from 2005 to 2009Figure 2.9 Mean density (individuals m-2) of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea

urchins at carbonate reef sites, for every survey period from 2005 to 2009 Figure 2.10 Mean density (individuals m-2) of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea

urchins at granitic reef sites, for every survey period from 2005 to 2009. Figure 2.11 Density of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea urchins on the carbonate

and on the granitic reefs for the survey period April June 2009


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Global Vision International 2009 Page 4

1 Introduction

The Global Vision International (GVI) Seychelles expedition is based on the island of Mah

at Cap Ternay Research Centre in the Baie Ternay National Park, which is run by the

Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA). A satellite camp has also been established

on the island of Curieuse, which is just north of Praslin. All of GVIs scientific work in the

Seychelles is carried out on behalf of our local partners and at their request, using their

methodology; GVI supplies experienced staff, trained volunteers and equipment to conduct

research in support of their ongoing work. GVIs key partner is the Seychelles Centre for

Marine Research and Technology (SCMRT), the research arm of SNPA. Additional local

partners include the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS) and the Seychelles

Fishing Authority (SFA).

Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA): A local parastatal organisation partly

funded by the government, encompassing the SeychellesCentre for Marine Research

and Technology (SCMRT) andthe Marine Parks Authority (MPA). These organisations

have the respective aims of carrying out marine research in the Seychelles and protecting

the marine parks. The coral and fish monitoring carried out for SCMRT constitutes the

majority of the work conducted by the Expedition Members. Expedition Members also

work alongside MPA rangers on the satellite camp located on Curieuse.

Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS): A local NGO that carries out

environmental research in the Seychelles, currently monitoring whale sharks, cetaceans

and turtles around Mah. GVI assists with all three of these research programmes by

reporting incidental sightings of cetaceans and whale sharks, documenting the presence

or absence of turtles on every dive throughout the phase, conducting in-water turtle

surveys, nesting turtle surveys and undertaking weekly plankton monitoring tows.

Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA): The governing body which oversees the

management and regulation of commercial and artisanal fisheries in the Seychelles. This

government agency is directly concerned with setting the catch, bag and seasonal limits

that apply to local stocks on an annual basis, as well as managing the international export

industry that is generated from the harvest of fisheries across the Seychelles Exclusive

Economic Zone (EEZ).


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In 1998, a worldwide coral bleaching event decimated much of the coral surrounding the

inner granitic islands of the Seychelles, with hard coral mortality reaching 95% in some

areas (Spencer et al. 2000). It is thought that this was caused by the high ocean

temperatures associated with an El Nino Southern Oscillation event at that time. Efforts to

monitor the regeneration of reefs in the Seychelles were initiated as part of the Shoals of

Capricorn, a three year programme started in 1998 and funded by the Royal Geographic

Society in conjunction with the Royal Society. SCMRT was set up by the Shoals of

Capricorn in an effort to ensure continuation of the work started, as well as to assist the

Marine Parks Authority (MPA) with the management of the existing marine parks. The

predominant objective for the Seychelles GVI expedition is to aid this monitoring

programme and thereby assist in the construction of management plans that will benefit

the future recovery of coral reefs in the area.

Between the end of the Shoals of Capricorn programme in 2001, and the beginning of the

GVI expedition in 2004, monitoring efforts were continued by Reefcare International, a

non-governmental organisation based in Australia. The protocols established by Reefcare

International provided a foundation for those adopted by GVI, differing only in the more

thorough taxonomic criteria adopted by the latter, and logistical constraints that restrict

GVIs monitoring efforts to the North West coast of Mah.

The data collection conducted by GVI Expedition Members contributes to a long-term

monitoring programme that has now been in progress for ten years. By providing this

support to SCMRT, it is hoped that their capacity to monitor, manage and ultimately

conserve the reefs of the Seychelles during this fragile period of regeneration will be

greatly enhanced.

The project runs in ten week cycles, four per year; each is known as a phase.

Health and Safety: The safety of all Expedition Members is paramount. All Expedition

Members are given a health and safety brief on the camp as soon as they arrive and

conservative diving guidelines are adhered to for the duration of the expedition. In

addition, Expedition Members complete the PADI Emergency First Response first aid

course, and are taught how to administer oxygen in the event of a diving related incident.


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2 Reef Survey Programme

2.1 Introduction

GVI surveys a maximum of 24 sites around North West Mah in the course of a year (Fig.

2.1). There are 16 sites which are visited every phase, a further four which are included

twice a year, and four additional sites which can be surveyed whenever time permits (see

Appendix A for site details). The sites are evenly divided between carbonate and granitic

reefs and they describe varying degrees of exposure to waves and current.

Figure 2.1 Location and substrate type of GVI survey sites

Each survey site is divided into shallow and deep zones, where the shallow zone is

defined by the depth range 1.5 5.0 m and the deep zone is defined by the depth range

5.1 15.0 m. Each site has a central point, marked by a distinctive landmark on the


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coastline, and is further divided into left, centre and right areas. These areas are loosely

defined as such by their position with respect to the centre marker of the site.

All depths are standardised with respect to chart datum.

2.2 Aim

Until April 2009, coral surveying was conducted on every phase, and fish included on

alternate phases. Following discussions with SCMRT on their data requirements, phases

now alternate between surveying coral only and surveying fish only. A selection of other

invertebrates is included on each phase type.

The focus of phase 20 was on surveying coral. The aims for the phase were to assess thebenthic assemblage, the coral diversity, and the abundance and diversity of invertebrates

at the 18 sites selected for the phase. These sites include the 16 bi-annual sites,

surveyed every phase and thus are surveyed twice a year for coral, plus two annual sites,

18. Lilot North Face and 12A. Willies Bay Reef (see Appendix A) (Fig. 2.1).

2.2.1 Species list

2.2.1.1 Coral

The list of corals surveyed now covers 49 genera, following the addition of Coscinaraea,

Siderastreidae and Halomitra, Fungiidae. See Appendix B for a full list. Corals are

specific to genus only; Expedition Members are not required to identify coral accurately to

species. This is because in situ identification beyond genus level is not possible in the

case of some corals, and is beyond the requirements of the project aims. Expedition

Members are also encouraged to record the genus as unknown if they are not able to

confidently identify a coral beyond the family level, and similarly to record unknown hard

coral where even the family is not determinable with a level of confidence.

2.2.1.2 Invertebrates

Not all Expedition Members are required to study other invertebrates. It is faster to learn

to identify and survey other invertebrates than coral and some Expedition Members prefer

to spend less time learning so as to maximise the number of surveys they complete during

their time here. Expedition Members who joined the expedition at the 5 week mark were

given the choice of learning either coral or other invertebrates.

The list of other invertebrates surveyed this phase can be found in Appendix C.


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2.2.2 Training

Dive training: All Expedition Members must be at least PADI Open Water qualified to join

the expedition. Expedition Members then receive the PADI Advanced Open Water course

covering Boat, Peak Performance Buoyancy, Navigation, Underwater Naturalist, and Deep

dives.

Species identification: Expedition Members are assigned to either corals or fish and

may also be required to learn a selection of other reef-dwelling invertebrates. Training is

initially provided in the form of presentations, workshops and informal discussion with the

expedition staff. Self study materials are also available. Knowledge is tested using

pictures on land, for which a 95% pass mark is required. Expedition Members are taken

on identification dives with staff members for in-water testing; their responses are recorded

and the dives continue until the Expedition Member has demonstrated accurate

identification of all necessary species/genera.

Survey Methodology: Expedition Members receive in-water training in the skills required

to conduct reef surveys, with all participants completing the PADI Coral Reef Research

Diver (CRRD) course. All are trained in the use of a delayed surface marker buoy and

tape reels, plus any other survey equipment specific to the research they will be

conducting. Before completing any UVCs independently, Expedition Members participate

in practice UVCs in which they are taught and supervised by a member of staff. The

CRRD course also includes a series of lectures on various aspects of the marine

environment.

Several improvements have been made to the quality of the species identification training

materials this phase. New photographs of corals were sourced from the internet to replace

existing ones of poor quality. The new pictures were used to produce new sets of

electronic flashcards, to enhance the self-study materials available, and to develop the

exams by the same means. The library of coral pictures now only includes those which

present the coral as it looks underwater, making the coral-learning process more

straightforward.

Coral skeletons were also incorporated into the on-land training. This helped the

Expedition Members to see parts of the coral anatomy, such as the columella and paliform


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lobes, which are discussed in lectures and used to distinguish between coral genera, but

which are not easily seen in photographs of corals projected onto the wall. It also enabled

Expedition Members to visualise the scale of coral genera which can be difficult to

appreciate from a photograph.

2.3 Methodology

2.3.1 Line Intercept Transects (LITs)

The Line Intercept Transect (LIT) is a cost-effective method for assessing reef composition

(Leujak & Ormond 2007). At each site, six LITs were carried out, each 10 m long running

along a single depth contour parallel to shore, using polyprophelene tape measures on

reels. Three LITs were done in each of the shallow and deep zones, evenly spread

amongst the left, centre and right of the site (Fig. 2.2). Transects were laid haphazardly

where possible. The topography in some of the granitic sites creates limited possible

places where 10 m of tape can be laid out inside the 1.5 5.0 m zone and meant that

shallow transects must be laid wherever the diver can achieve it and thus diver selection

must drive the process. Divers record a start and end depth for each transect. The

benthic assemblage is recorded in a continuous series of data of what is directly under the

tape, with start and end points for each entry, to the nearest cm. Where coral is found the

life form best describing the majority of the colony is also recorded.

2.3.2 Coral Diversity Belt Transects

The coral diversity belt transect is conducted along a 50 m tape with divers searching for

coral genera in a 5 m wide swath, each diver in a buddy pair searching the area up to 2.5

m away from the tape on one side. Each diver records the presence of all coral genera

seen in their search area. The transects both started in the shallow centre, with one

heading out to the deep left (belt B) and the other to the deep right (belt A), thus both the

depth and spread of each site is sampled.

2.3.3 Invertebrate Abundance & Diversity Belt Transects

The diver conducting the invertebrate belt transects dived as a buddy to the LIT diver and

transects were conducted along the same tape as the LITs, thus six invertebrate belts

were completed at each site (Fig. 2.2). Invertebrate divers searched the area extending to

1 m either side of the tape, thus the belt transects were 10 * 2 m.


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Global Vision Internation

2.3.4 Layout of transect

Figure 2.2 Layout of transe

top of the figure and distan

2.3.5 Environmental Pa

During each survey dive t

environmental conditions d

Turbidity is recorded u

Cloud cover is estimat

Sea state is evaluated

Surface and bottom se

Shore

al 2009

s

ts at each survey site, where the shoreline i

e from shore indicates increasing depth

ameters

e boat captain records certain abiotic fact

uring the dive.

ing a Secchi disk

d in eighths

using the Beaufort scale, a copy of which is

temperatures are recorded using personal

LIT

Invertebrate belt

Coral diversity belt

Page 10

represented by the

rs pertaining to the

ept on the boat

dive computers

Increasingdepth


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2.4 Results

2.4.1 Surveys completedAll transects were completed at each of the 18 target sites. No additional sites were

completed.

2.4.2 Reported coral cover

2.4.2.1 Substrate type comparison

Mean percentage coral cover reduced from October December 2008 to the present

study period, at both the granitic and the carbonate sites (Fig. 2.3). The granitic sites

displayed the sharpest decline, dropping from 31.6% 1.9 to 22.8% 1.8; this represents

a drop of 28%. The coral cover at the carbonate sites declined less steeply, from 21.6%

2.0 in October December 2008 to 19.4% 2.1 in April June 2009; a 10% reduction.

Figure 2.3 Mean percentage coral cover SE at the carbonate and the granitic sites, for each

survey period from 2005 to 2009

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

Engelhardt2004

APR-MAY05

NOV-DEC05

APR-JUN06

OCT-DEC06

APR-JUN07

OCT-DEC07

APR-JUN08

OCT-DEC08

APR-JUN09

MeanPercentageCover(SE)

Carbonate

Granitic


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At the granitic sites, cover of macro algae increased slightly from 0.5% to 1.1% from

October December 2008 to April June 2009 (Fig. 2.4). Soft coral cover also increased

from 0.2% to 0.9% over the same period. The cover of coralline algae has been

decreasing at a steady rate from October December 2007 to the present study period,

while the percentage cover of sponges and of corallimorphs and zoanthids combined

remained constant over this last 6 month period.

Since surveys began in 2005, the granitic sites have shown an overall increasing trend,

with slight reductions in mean percentage live hard coral cover in the April June survey

periods of each year. Soft coral cover at granitic sites is consistently lower than that at

carbonate sites (Fig, 2.4, Fig. 2.5.)

Figure 2.4 Mean percentage cover of algae and of epibenthic organisms at the granitic

reef sites surveyed, for each survey period from 2005 to 2009

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

APR-MAY05

NOV-DEC05

APR-JUN06

OCT-DEC06

APR-JUN07

OCT-DEC07

APR-JUN08

OCT-DEC08

APR-JUN09

MeanPercentageCover

Soft coral

Sponge

Corallimorphs/Zoanthids

Coralline algae

Macro algae

Live coral


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At the carbonate sites, cover of both coralline algae and of macro algae has increased

from October December 2008 to the last survey period (Fig. 2.5). Coralline algae was

found to cover 2.2% of the transects conducted in October December 2008, and 3.1% of

the transects conducted in April June 2009. Similarly, percentage cover of macro algae

species increased from 0.1% to 0.5% over the same period. Both types of algae have

shown steady levels over the longer term. Percentage cover of soft corals and of sponges

shows a slightly decreasing trend over the last 12 month period. The combined

percentage cover of corallimorphs and zoanthids has displayed varying levels for the last

24 month period.

Figure 2.5 Mean percentage cover of algae and of epibenthic organisms at the carbonate reef

sites surveyed, for each survey period from 2005 to 2009.

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

APR-MAY05

NOV-DEC05

APR-JUN06

OCT-DEC06

APR-JUN07

OCT-DEC07

APR-JUN08

OCT-DEC08

APR-JUN09

MeanPercentag

eCover

Soft coral

Sponge

Corallimorphs/Zoanthids

Coralline algae

Macro algae

Live coral


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2.4.2.2 Depth comparison

Results from transects completed within the shallow zone and the deep zone report that

mean percentage cover of live hard corals has declined at both depths from the October

December 2008 survey period to April June 2009 (Fig. 2.6). The shallow sites reported

a sharper decline, from 30.5% in October December 2008 to 21.7% in April June 2009,

than the deep sites which reduced from 26.8% to 20.5% over the same period. These

results bring the reported coral cover levels of shallow and deep reefs closer together, a

difference of 1.2%, or 0.12m, in April June 2009, reduced from 3.7%, or 0.37 m, in

October December 2008.

Since surveys distinguishing deep zones from shallow zones began in 2007 both have

displayed a drop or a slow in increase rate of mean percentage coral cover in the April

June survey periods, more pronounced in the deep transects.

Figure 2.6 Mean percentage cover of live hard coral at the shallow sites and at the deep

sites, for each survey period from 2007 to 2009

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

APR-JUN 07 OCT-DEC 07 APR-JUN 08 OCT-DEC 08 APR-JUN 09

MeanPercentageCover

Deep

Shallow


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Since 2007 the deep granitic sites have been the most varied in terms of mean percentage

coral cover, displaying the most pronounced decline during the April June survey periods

(Fig. 2.7). All four combinations of reef type and depth zone have shown a reduction in

coral cover over the most recent survey period, since October December 2008, the deep

granitic sites showing the greatest reduction and the deep carbonate sites showing the

smallest reduction. Deep carbonate sites have shown the smoothest overall trend.

Shallow granitic sites showed a large increase from April June 2007 to October

December 2007, followed by very little variation to October December 2008.

Figure 2.7 Mean percentage cover of live hard coral for sites on different reef types and in

different depth zones, for each survey period from 2007 - 2009

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

APR-JUN 07 OCT-DEC 07 APR-JUN 08 OCT-DEC 08 APR-JUN 09

MeanPe

rcentageCover

Deep carbonate

Shallow carbonate

Deep Granitic

Shallow granitic


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2.4.3 Coral diversity

Coral diversity declined from October December 2008 to April June 2009 at both the

carbonate and the granitic sites (Fig. 2.8). Carbonate sites displayed a decrease from

30.9 in October December 2008 to 29.9 genera per site while granitic sites showed a

similar reduction, from 30.3 to 29.2 genera per site in April June 2009. Viewing a longer

period, the granitic sites displayed a steady increase in coral genera richness from the first

surveys in April May 2005 until October December 2006, after which there was a drop

in April June 2007, followed again by a period of steady increasing, until the most recent

survey period in April June 2009. The carbonate sites similarly increased in coral genera

richness from the first surveys in April May 2005 but continued to increase until April

June 2007, after which there was a slight decrease, followed by a steady increase until the

recent surveys.

Figure 2.8 Mean coral genera richness SE for the carbonate and for the granitic sites, for

each survey period from 2005 to 2009

20

22

24

26

28

30

32

APR-MAY05

OCT-DEC05

APR-JUN06

OCT-DEC06

APR-JUN07

OCT-DEC07

APR-JUN08

OCT-DEC08

APR-JUN09

MeanGeneraRichess(SE)

Carbonate

Granitic


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2.4.4 Invertebrate abundance and diversity

Densities of Arthropods have been increasing overall since 2005 when surveys began,

with an acceleration in increase rate at both the carbonate and the granitic sites over the

last year (Fig. 2.9, Fig. 2.10). Long and short spined sea urchins have fluctuated around

the 0.6 individuals per metre mark throughout the four year survey history, at carbonate

and at granitic sites, displaying an increasing trend since April June 2007 at carbonate

sites and a decreasing trend at granitic sites over the same period. Mollusc species

surveyed have shown steady densities over time at the carbonate sites and more highly

fluctuating densities at the granitic sites.

In the last survey period, April June 2009, there were more than twice as many target

molluscs recorded on surveys at granitic reefs than carbonate (Fig, 2.11). Arthropods

were also found in greater abundance at granitic sites, while Annelids, Echinoderms in

general, as well as long and short spined sea urchins in particular, were recorded in higher

densities at carbonate sites than those of granitic reefs.

Figure 2.9 Mean density (individuals m-2

) of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea

urchins at carbonate reef sites, for every survey period from 2005 to 2009

0,0

0,2

0,4

0,6

0,8

1,0

1,2

1,4

Apr-Jun

05

Oct-Dec

05

Apr-Jun

06

Oct-Dec

06

Apr-Jun

07

Oct-Dec

07

Apr-Jun

08

Oct-Dec

08

Apr-Jun

09

InvertebrateDensity(individials/m2)

Annelida

Platyhelminthes

Arthropoda

Mollusca

Echinodermata

Black Spined Sea Urchins


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Figure 2.10 Mean density (individuals m-2

) of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea

urchins at granitic reef sites, for every survey period from 2005 to 2009.

Figure 2.11 Density of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea urchins on the carbonate

and on the granitic reefs for the survey period April June 2009

0,0

0,2

0,4

0,6

0,8

1,0

1,2

Apr-Jun

05

Oct-Dec

05

Apr-Jun

06

Oct-Dec

06

Apr-Jun

07

Oct-Dec

07

Apr-Jun

08

Oct-Dec

08

Apr-Jun

09

InvertebrateDensity(individials/m2)

Annelida

Platyhelminthes

Arthropoda

Mollusca

Echinodermata

Black Spined Sea Urchins

0,0

0,2

0,4

0,6

0,8

1,0

1,2

1,4

Density(individualsm-2) Carbonate

Granitic


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2.5 Discussion

2.5.1 Benthic assemblage as assessed by LITs

2.5.1.1 Changes to LIT technique

The technique used to perform LITs was reviewed this phase and some changes

introduced. While it is preferable to keep methodologies as consistent as possible to

restrict sources of variance, where the method is introducing bias it is necessary to adapt it.

The changes are detailed below.

2.5.1.1.1 Resolution of coral identification

To date, coral encountered on a LIT was divided into three categories: Acropora sp.,

Pocillopora sp. and other hard corals, and recorded as such, along with the appropriate life

form. While this is in line with the methods used by previous studies in the region

(Engelhardt 2004, Payet et al. 2005) and described by English et al. (1997) it was

commonly reported by volunteers that they found it frustrating to spend time learning to

identify coral to genus level and then not to use this knowledge. It is also considered

preferable, where possible, to record data on a transect to the highest possible resolution

and to clump data together for analysis if required (Shank, pers. comm.). Many reef

monitoring programmes may not have the expertise and/or the necessary training time

required to identify coral to genus level, however we do and thus it was decided to apply

this knowledge when conducting LITs.

2.5.1.1.2 Continuous record of substrate type

LIT surveys completed to date have not recorded substrate type, with the exception of

bare substrates and dead coral. Substrates such as sand and silt are not available

substrate for coral to colonise; correcting data for substrate type will enable assessment of

coral cover relative to the optimum state of the reef given suitable substrate availability.Both the cover and the substrate are now recorded at every point on the transect.

2.5.1.1.3 Straightness of transect tape

The reefs around North West Mah are fringing reefs, thus are very close to shore and in

certain weather conditions they are subject to considerable surge. The accuracy of LITs is

reduced by movement of the tape and keeping a measuring tape still in surge is extremely

difficult without securing it to the substrate. This had previously been achieved by


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diverting the transect line in order to wrap the tape around coral encountered along the

transect. Discussions were held with SCMRT before the start of phase 20 and it was

decided not to continue to wrap tapes around coral; not only could this damage coral

colonies but it introduces diver selection into the method and may report inflated levels of

coral cover. It was also agreed that the tape should be as taut as possible; one weakness

of line transect methods is that they over-estimate coral cover by following the contours of

individual colonies which then generates measures of coral circumferential area a instead

of planar area (Leujak & Ormond 2007), thus by keeping the tape tight it is hoped to

reduce this effect as much as possible. Various strategies for securing the tape to the reef

in a taut, straight line were discussed. On transects in the deep zone (> 5 m) the tape is

not affected by surge to the same extent and a 10 m tape laid straight is able to be kept

taut by a 2 lb lead weight block at either end. For transects laid in the shallow zone (< 5 m)

the 2 lb weight blocks are not sufficiently heavy to hold the tape in place and the surge

often rips the tape out from beneath the weight. In these circumstances the most

reasonable and successful method involved divers taking additional 4 lb lead weight

blocks on survey dives and using it to hold down the tape immediately ahead of the

section they are studying. This seemed to work sufficiently enough to enable transects to

be carried out; on all LITs the divers were required to record the level of surge on a scale

of 0 5. While subjective, this information may help to assess, in the case of any unusual

data, whether that diver conducted the survey under levels of surge sufficiently high

enough to influence their results.

2.5.1.2 Reported coral cover

The decline of coral cover since the last survey period was not accompanied by an

equivalent increase in either macro or coralline algae types. Although cover of these algae

has increased at the carbonate sites, and macro algal cover has increased at the granitic

sites, this is not yet at a level which would indicate that the coral cover is being replaced byalgal cover. This then suggests that cover of live hard corals is not decreasing because it

is being out-competed by algae; under these circumstances it would be expected that algal

cover would increase at the same rate as coral cover decreases. If the decline in the

reported percentage cover of hard corals represents a true decline in live coral on the reef

then we may see an increasing trend of algal cover as it grows on the substrate made

available by coral. This can be studied after the next surveys are done in April June

2010.


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For the first time, the transects included a continuous record of substrate type, for 100% of

each transect, as discussed in 2.5.1.1.2. The reported reduction in live coral cover could

be caused by more transects being laid upon substrate on which coral is less able to grow,

such as sand areas. Although we cannot compare the substrate types with those of

previous phases, when considered as a percentage only of available suitable substrate, i.e.

rock, the coral cover of the last survey period is still a reduction on that reported in the

survey period October December 2008 (add number to graph and ref it).

The granitic sites in particular have demonstrated a reduction in coral cover each April

June survey period. This is also when the sea surface temperatures reach an annual peak

of 29 31C (Seychelles Fishing Authority 1995); in April June 2007 temperatures

recorded on many survey dives exceeded 30C on the surface, reaching 32C at Whale

Rock on 12 May. Coral is sensitive to increases in temperatures and excessively high

temperatures over an extended period may lead to coral bleaching. After a few days,

bleached coral will become overgrown by algae; therefore increases in bleaching could

lead to increased cover of dead coral with algae. Temperature increases are usually more

pronounced in the shallower zones, however it has been the deep transects which have

reported the greater drops in mean percentage coral cover increase rates in the April

June survey periods. Future research combining a quantified measure of bleaching levels,

water temperatures and coral cover could isolate the impact that temperature has upon

benthic assemblage.

In addition, it is possible that the changes to the LIT survey techniques introduced this

phase and discussed in 2.5.1.1.3 may have exaggerated the decline seen this survey

period. Laying the tape straight and taut and not using epibenthic communities as anchors

to secure the tape to the substrate is expected to reduce the reported cover of live hard

coral. Shallow sites, particularly those on granitic reefs because of their exposed location,such as the points of bays, and their proximity to shore, frequently are those which

experience the highest levels of surge. Under the previous technique these are the

transects where divers found it the most necessary to divert the tape to anchor it around

corals, therefore it would be thought that they may also be the locations where the change

to running the tape straight may show the greatest influence on results. However all the

transects conducted at the granitic sites, plus those from the shallow areas of carbonate

reefs all showed similar declines in reported coral cover. The deep carbonate reefs


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reported the least decline, which weakly supports this theory. In order to resolve the effect

that the change in LIT methodology has had, it is recommended that transects be

conducted using the two different techniques in the same location to estimate the factor by

which coral cover is influenced.

Engelhardt (2004) attributes the elevated coral cover at granitic sites compared to

carbonate sites to the effect of water quality linked to position. Granitic sites are at more

exposed points with high water flow whereas many carbonate sites are within sheltered

bays receiving less water flow and more nutrients and sediments through run off from land.

The sites with the highest overall levels of coral cover were Port Launay West Rocks

(37%), a granitic site, and Baie Ternay Centre (34%), a carbonate site within the protected

area of the Baie Ternay National Marine Park.

2.5.2 Coral diversity

Extensive surveys conducted across the inner Seychelles islands in 2004 recorded 48

genera of coral from 14 different families (Engelhardt 2004). Our survey list now stands at

49 genera.

The average genera diversity found by our surveys was 29.6; the highest found was in

Baie Ternay Centre where 37 genera were recorded. Engelhardt (2004) found 34 generaat this site as part of the SEYMEMP studies conducted from 2001 2004, a positive sign

that coral diversity remains high at this protected site.

Some coral genera were not found at any of the sites surveyed this phase. Seriatopora,

Diaseris, Coeloseris, Siderastrea, Pectinia, Oulophyllia, and Alveopora did not occur on

any of the coral diversity belt transects and have not been seen on any dive since the any

of the current staff team began diving here, that is for at least two years prior to 2009. This

year, Alveoporaand Oulophyllia, however, have both been by staff members during non-

survey dives in Baie Ternay and at Conception North Point, respectively. Therefore, whilethe transects have reported a decline in coral diversity, to experienced staff members it

seems as if diversity is increasing with corals considered to be rare in the area making

appearances. We look forward to these corals increasing in abundance and appearing on

coral diversity belt transects in the future.


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2.5.3 Invertebrate abundance and diversity

Invertebrates are surveyed as part of the reef monitoring program because changes in

their densities may be important indicators of changes on the reef. Filter feeding

invertebrates are indicators of changes in water quality, coral predators are useful to study

alongside coral cover and coral diversity, and algal grazers are key indicators of reef

health in terms of the relative levels of coral cover and algal cover.

Most of the target invertebrate species are demonstrating normal fluctuations in density

levels. The Arthropods surveyed are shrimps, mantis shrimps and crabs. If growth

continues at the current rate, further investigation into the driving species is recommended.

Long and short spined sea urchin densities in particular should also be closely monitored;

these algal grazers can cause inadvertent harm to new coral colonies, impeding

recruitment rates, and in high densities they may indicate an algal dominated environment.

2.5.4 Coral bleaching

Bleaching levels, particularly within Baie Ternay and most noticeably at depths of 7 m and

shallower, were observed to have increased during the survey period. As bleaching is not

something currently included on any transects no time series data exists for it and

quantitative assessment has not been possible. Staff members have been diving in Baie

Ternay many times a week for the past several months and are confident that a greaternumber of coral colonies were displaying some sign of bleaching, particularly Pocillopora,

Goniopora, Acroporaand Pavonaspecies, than in previous phases. In order to be able to

quantitatively assess bleaching levels and to consider in conjunction with water

temperatures and as a factor contributing to levels of coral cover as discussed in 2.5.1.2,

surveys of bleaching will be incorporated into the methodologies utilised on future coral

surveying phases, beginning in October December 2009.

2.5.5 New coral genera

This phase there have been multiple sightings by staff members of Polyphyllia(Fungiidae);

a coral genus which has not previously been recorded on surveys conducted in the area.

Polyphyllia is sufficiently distinctive for staff members to be confident of positive

identification and Polyphyllia talpinais common in the Western Indian Ocean (Veron 2000).

As such, with confirmed permission from SCMRT, Polyphylliawill be added to the list of

coral genera taught to Expedition Members and surveyed on the next coral phase in

October December 2009.


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3 Additional Ecosystem Monitoring

3.1 Crown of Thorns

Outbreaks of the coral predator, the Crown of Thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci), were

first reported in 1996 and were active until 1998, when the reefs suffered from the

bleaching-induced coral mortality (Engelhardt 2004). Normal density levels are less than

one individual per hectare (Pratchett 2007) and in these numbers A. plancican assist coral

diversity by feeding on the faster growing corals such as Acroporaand Pocillopora, which

are its preferred prey items (Pratchett 2007) and early colonisers of degraded reefs that

can out-compete slower growing corals (Veron 2000). In high numbers however the level

of competition for food drives the starfish to eat all species of corals and reefs can become

severely degraded with coral cover reduced to as little as 1% (CRC Reef 2001). The

causes of outbreaks are still not completely understood; it may be connected to overfishing

of A. plancipredators, such as the giant triton shell which is popular with shell collectors,

or to natural fluctuations (CRC Reef 2001). The most influential factor could be increased

nutrient levels in the oceans (Engelhardt pers. comm.), from agricultural, domestic or

industrial sources. A. planci are surveyed as part of the invertebrate abundance and

diversity belts and incidental sightings are also documented after every dive.

Numbers of A. planci seen over the phase were low; none were reported on the

invertebrate belt transects and there were only 5 incidental sightings in total. Although few

A. planci were seen at the sites surveyed by GVI in the last phase, outbreaks were

reported on other reefs around Mah. In response, the Underwater Centre, a dive centre

based in the tourist area of Beau Vallon and owned by the chairman of MCSS, Dr David

Rowat, began an A. planciremoval programme. Expedition Members assisted with these

dives on three occasions, removing over 500 starfish from a reef suffering from an

outbreak at Anse la Mouche in the south of the Mah. Starfish were speared with a stick

and physically removed from the water; tube feet were sampled from every 5 th individual

and sent to Hawaii for genetic analysis on the sources and spread of the species.


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3.2 Turtles

Five species of marine turtles are found in the Seychelles: the leatherback (Dermochelys

coriacea), loggerhead (Caretta caretta), olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), hawksbill

(Eretmochelys imbricata), and green (Chelonia mydas) (IUCN 1996). The leatherback,

loggerhead and olive ridley, although common in the Western Indian Ocean, are not

thought to currently nest in the Seychelles and are rarely seen. In contrast, the hawksbill

and green are resident in coastal waters of the Seychelles, nest on the beaches, and are

commonly observed. All five species found in the Seychelles face the combined threats of

poaching, pollution and loss of nesting sites, and are listed by IUCN as endangered or

critically endangered. The Seychelles is considered one of the most important sites for the

critically endangered hawksbill turtle and is one of the only localities in the world where

they can be observed nesting during daylight hours.

GVI staff and Expedition Members are trained in turtle identification through lectures and

PowerPoint presentations in which they learn to ID both from seeing the turtle and also

from the tracks. All are also trained in the necessary survey techniques, thus allowing

them to participate in both the water based and land based surveys.

3.2.1 Incidental sightingsFor every dive undertaken by GVI, a record of turtle observations is kept. The parameters

for each of GVIs dives are logged, regardless of whether a turtle was seen, enabling the

calculation of turtle frequency per dive and thus effort-related abundance. The species,

sex, size and behaviour of all turtles sighted is recorded wherever possible.

Out of the 103 dives completed this phase (this discounts dives that were specifically

looking for turtles as part of the focal behavioural study), 11 turtles were seen during dives;

6 hawksbill, 5 green. From January March 2009 18 turtles were seen over 132 dives.

3.2.2 Beach patrols for nesting turtles

Beach patrols are conducted on North West Mah during the hawksbill turtle nesting

season from October to March. This land-based turtle monitoring work includes beach

walks, documentation of nesting tracks, and investigation of newly hatched clutches.

Beach patrols are carried out weekly at beaches local to the Cap Ternay research station

(Anse Du Riz and Anse Major) to monitor nesting turtle activity. The surveys are


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3.3 Cetacean sightings

Cetaceans are considered to be under threat in many parts of the world and in response to

this threat, a national database of cetacean sightings, the Seychelles Marine Mammal

Observatory (SMMO), has been set up. GVI records all incidental cetacean sightings and

passes all data to MCSS for inclusion in the national database. Data recorded includes

date, time, location (including GPS coordinates where possible), environmental conditions,

number of individuals, distinguishing features, size, behaviour and species.

There were five separate sightings of cetaceans during the phase April June 2009.

Estimated pod sizes, (numbers seen surfacing together at any one time), ranged from

three to seven individuals. A minimum of 21 individual were seen in total and all

observations were made the boat; there were no sightings of dolphins whilst diving. All

individuals were recorded as bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncates).

3.4 Whale shark sightings

The Seychelles is famous for its seasonal fluctuations in the abundance of whale sharks

(Rhincodon typus). However despite their public profile, relatively little is known about

their behaviour or the ecological factors which influence their migratory patterns. A whaleshark monitoring programme was started by volunteers in 1996 and is now the

cornerstone of a lucrative eco-tourism operation run by MCSS. From 2001 -2003, a

tagging programme was initiated to study migratory patterns as part of the Seychelles

Marine Ecosystem and Management Project (SEYMEMP), and it is now clear that the

sharks seen in the Seychelles are not resident, but range throughout the Indian Ocean.

The oceanographic or biological conditions that determine the movements are unclear, it is

possible however that the sharks follow seasonal variations in the abundance of the

plankton on which they feed.

All sightings of whale sharks are documented in as much detail as possible. This includes

time, date, GPS point, number of animals, size of the individuals, sex, distinguishing

features, behaviour and tag numbers if present. Photographs are also taken whenever

possible of the left and right side of the thorax from the base of the pectoral fin to behind

the gill area.


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There were five whale shark sightings during the April June 2009 phase. One sighting

occurred during a dive, all others were sightings made from the boat, three of which

involved in-water snorkel encounters for the Expedition Members present. Dr David

Rowat from MCSS visited the Cap Ternay research centre on two occasions during the

phase to deliver a lecture on whale sharks. Dr Rowats presentation outlined research

techniques and discussed the current state of knowledge. He also explained the

guidelines for behaviour during in-water encounters with whale sharks which minimise

stress and harm to the animal and maximise the time that it will remain for.

3.5 Plankton sampling

MCSS initiated a plankton monitoring programme in conjunction with the tagging andincidental recording surveys in an attempt to correlate the frequency of whale shark

sightings with plankton levels. The plankton sampling has been run by MCSS since 2003

in conjunction with their ongoing whale shark monitoring and tagging programmes. GVI

started to assist MCSS in the collection of plankton data in July 2004, and have since

carried out the survey on a weekly basis. Five plankton tows are carried out to the North

Western side of Grouper Point, just outside of Cap Ternay Marine Park, between 08:00

and 11:00 hours. The tows are carried out along a North Westerly course from Grouper

Point. In order to sample over a range of depths, the net is let out a further 5 m every 30seconds (up to 45 m). Samples are collected in the cod end of the net, decanted into a

receptacle and preserved in formalin. After the survey and the filtering process, they are

passed to MCSS for measurement of wet weight and classification of species.

Environmental conditions are also noted (sea state, cloud cover and turbidity).

Plankton tows were successfully conducted on eight occasions during the phase.

3.6 Temperature loggers

In line with a regional drive in research into sea surface temperatures, GVI staff members

assisted Dr David Rowat and Katie Brooks from MCSS in installing four temperature data

loggers early in the phase. One logger was placed at 15 m depth and one at 5 m depths

at Conception North Point and in the centre of Baie Ternay. It is aimed to change the

loggers once per phase to provide continuous temperature data on a frequent basis.


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4 Non-survey Programmes

4.1 Community Development

4.1.1 National Scholarship Programme

The National Scholarship Programme is directly funded by GVI Expedition Members

payments and aims to increase long term capacity building within the country. National

recruits such as rangers, researchers and students are selected by the local partner

organisations and are brought into the programme as Expedition Members. In order for

SNPA to continue and build upon the research conducted by GVI, scholars are invited to

join every expedition from the pool of SNPA staff.

There were no applicants for the programme this phase.

4.1.2 Working with the International School

The GVI Seychelles community education project works in conjunction with the

International School of the Seychelles (ISS). Lessons are held on Port Launay Beach,

within one of the National Marine Parks on Mah, where children aged 7 9 from ISS are

taught aspects of marine conservation in an environment that ignites and stimulates their

interest. We believe that this branch of the expedition is key to the overall impact of our

role within the Seychelles. It also increases the extent to which Expedition Members are

able to contribute on an individual level, to help raise vital awareness of marine

conservation issues related directly to the Seychelles. Topics taught include Food Chains,

specific habitats such as Mangroves, Seagrass and the Coral Reef system; Endangered

Species; aspects of Marine Pollution and finally the role of the National Marine Parks of

the Seychelles. All lessons focus on the human impacts on these topics and the ways that

we can address these issues, using education as the cornerstone. Lesson plans detail the

main points of each lesson, a time table, different teaching methods to use and games to

play with the children to reinforce the main points. These are appropriately structured for

the age group of the children.

Phase 20 has seen a continuation to the dedicated effort and hard work of staff and

Expedition Members to improve the GVI Seychelles community education project.

Lessons were conducted every Tuesday for five weeks of the phase.


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4.2 Curieuse Island Satellite Camp

Curieuse Island is situated to the North of Mah, close to Praslin. The island and its

surrounding waters are protected as National Terrestrial and Marine Park, and is one of

only a few places on the planet where a population of Aldabra Giant tortoises lives freely.

It is also one of only two places where the Coco-de-Mer, an endemic species, grows

naturally. The island and reserve serve as a major tourist attraction and economic

resource for the Seychelles, and also suffer from poaching of their resources. Coral Reef

Monitoring and Coral Recruitment surveying was initiated around Curieuse and Praslin

Islands in 2001 and continued until 2004 by Reefcare International. In addition the main

ranger station for SNPA is located on Curieuse and is where the logistical operations of

the reserve are based. In August 2005, GVI established a small satellite camp on

Curieuse to work with SNPA on the continuation and development of this surveying. As the

programme is in line with the research conducted by GVI around North West Mah, it also

serves as an expansion of the geographical range of the survey area. Curieuse was

historically home to a colony of lepers and it is a shared vision of GVI and SNPA to restore

some of the old houses to their original state, as part of a visitors attraction. At the

beginning of 2007, GVI broke ground to begin expanding one of the old leper houses, in

which GVI currently resides.

Expedition Members were sent to Curieuse, in groups of 4 or 5, for a total of seven weeks

of the phase. The diving programme could not be run due to logistical issues, however

with the birth of GVI Curieuse as an expedition in its own right coming up in October 2009;

there is a significant amount of preparation in order for the base to be ready to receive a

group of permanent Expedition Members. There has therefore been an increased focus on

renovation of the house.


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5 Literature cited

CRC Reef, 2001, Crown-of-thorns starfish on the Great Barrier Reef: Current state of

knowledge: April 2001. CRRCentre James Cook University, Townsville.

Engelhardt U., 2004, The status of scleractinian coral and reef-associated fish

communities 6 years after the 1998 mass coral bleaching event. Seychelles Marine

Ecosystem Management Project. Global Environment Facility/Government of

Seychelles/World Wildlife Fund, Victoria.

English S., Wilkinson C., Baker V. (Eds.), 1997, Survey Manual for Tropical Marine

Resources, 2nd edn. Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville.

IUCN 1996, A Marine Turtle Conservation Strategy and Action Plan for the Western Indian

Ocean. International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.

Leujak W., Ormond R.F.G., 2007, Comparative accuracy and efficiency of six coral

community survey methods. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 351,

168-187.

Payet R., Bijoux J., Adam P-A., 2005, Status and Recovery of Carbonate and Granitic

Reefs in the Seychelles Inner Islands and Implications for Management. Coral Reef

Degradation in the Indian Ocean: Status Report 2005. CORDIO, Kalmar

Pratchett M.S., 2007, Feeding preferences of Acanthaster planci (Echinodermata:

Asteroidea) under controlled conditions of food availability. Pacific Science61 (Issue 1),

113-120

Seychelles Fishing Authority, 1995, The Status of Seychelles Demersal Fishery.

Government of Seychelles, Victoria.

Spencer T., Telek K.A., Bradshaw C., Spalding M.D., 2000, Coral bleaching in the

Southern Seychelles During the 1997 1998 Indian Ocean Warm Event. Marine Pollution

Bulletin40 (Issue 7), 569-586.

Veron J.E.N., 2000, Corals of the world. Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville,

p. 295.


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6 Appendices

Appendix A. Details of sites surveyed by Global Vision International Seychelles Mah, year

round

Site

NoSite Name GPS

Survey

frequency

Granitic/Carbo

nate

1 Conception North Point S 0439.583, E 05521.654 Bi-annual Granitic

2 Conception Central East Face S 0439.891, E 05522.258 Bi-annual Carbonate4 Port Launay West Rocks S 0439.416, E 05523.382 Bi-annual Granitic5 Port Launay South Reef S 0439.158, E 05523.695 Bi-annual Carbonate

7 Baie Ternay Lighthouse S 0438.373, E 05521.993 Additional Granitic

8 Baie Ternay Reef NE S 0438.013, E 05522.405 Bi-annual Granitic

9 Baie Ternay Reef Centre S 0438.321, E 05522.504 Bi-annual Carbonate

10 Baie Ternay Reef NW S 0438.382, E 05522.133 Bi-annual Carbonate

11 Rays Point S 0437.347, E 05523.145 Additional Granitic

12 A Willies Bay Reef S 0437.650, E 05522.889 Annual Carbonate

12 B Willies Bay Point S 0437.589, E 05522.776 Bi-annual Granitic

13 A Anse Major Reef S 0437.546, E 05523.121 Bi-annual Carbonate13 B Anse Major Point S 0437.509, E 05523.010 Additional Granitic

14 Whale Rock S 0437.184, E 05523.424 Bi-annual Granitic

15 Auberge Reef S 0437.024, E 05524.243 Annual Carbonate

16 Corsaire Reef S 0437.016, E 05524.447 Bi-annual Carbonate

17 White Villa Reef S 0436.935, E 05524.749 Bi-annual Carbonate

18 Lilot North Face S 0438.652, E 05525.932 Annual Granitic

19 Site Y S 0437.771, E 05522.660 Bi-annual Granitic

20 Aquarium S 0436.155, E 05525.376 Additional Carbonate

21 Therese North End S 0440.101, E 05523.737 Bi-annual Granitic

22 Therese North East S 0440.099, E 05523.891 Bi-annual Carbonate

23 Therese South S 0440.764, E 05524.310 Annual Granitic

24 Site X S 0437.059, E 05523.783 Bi-annual Granitic


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Appendix B. Coral genera surveyed by Global Vision International Seychelles in the period

April June 2009

Acroporidae Fungiidae Merulinidae

Acropora Fungia Merulina

Montipora Cycloseris Hydnophora

Astreopora Diaseris Faviidae

Pocilloporidae Herpolitha Montastrea

Pocillopora Halomitra Favia

Stylophora Podabacia Favites

Seriatopora Siderastreidae Cyphastrea

Poritidae Siderastrea Plesiastrea

Porites Pseudosiderastrea Leptastrea

Goniopora Coscinaraea

Psammacora

Diploastrea

Alveopora Platygyra

Dendrophylliidae Astrocoeniidae Leptoria

Turbinaria Stylocoeniella Oulophyllia

Euphyllidae Agariciidae GoniastreaPhysogyra Pavona Echinopora

Mussidae Leptoseris Pectiniidae

Lobophyllia Gardineroseris Pectinia

Symphyllia Coeloseris Mycedium

Acanthastrea Pachyseris Echinophyllia

Blastomussa Oculinidae

Galaxea


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Appendix C. Invertebrates surveyed by Global Vision International Seychelles in the period

April June 2009

Annelida (Polychaeta)

Sabellidae Feather Duster worms

Serpulidae Christmas Tree worms

Terebellidae Spaghetti worms

(Platyhelminthes) Polycladida Flatworms

Arthropoda (Crustacea)

Caridea Shrimps

Stomatopoda Mantis shrimps

- Crabs

Mollusca (Gastropoda)

Muricidae Murex

Drupella sp. DrupellaStrombidae Conch

Cypraeidae Cowrie

Ranellidae Triton

Conidae Cone

Trochidae Top

Cassidae Helmet

- Other shells

Nudibranchia Nudibranchs

Mollusca (Bivalvia)Ostreidae Oysters

Tridacnidae Giant Clam

Mollusca (Cephalopoda)Sepoidea Cuttlefish

Teuthoidea Squid

Sea Stars (Asteroidea)

Culcita sp. Cushion Sea Star

Acanthaster planci Crown of Thorns Sea Star

Other Sea Stars

Ophiuroidea Brittle Stars

Crinoidea Feather Stars

Sea Urchins (Echinoidea)

Diadema sp. Long Spine Urchin

Echinometra sp. Mathaes Urchin

Echinothrix sp. Short Spine Urchin

Pencil Urchin

Toxopneustes sp. Flower Urchin

Cake Urchin

formal _phase_ report seychelles - mahe 002- june 2009

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