Towards reef restoration in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, México: lessons learned

Introduction: Coral reef structures in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero are well-preserved. The coverage of living corals, near 60 % at several locations, makes them comparable to other coral reefs in the states of Oaxaca, Jalisco, and Nayarit and with high potential to promote their conservation. Objective: To present the outcome of 12 years of research in coral communities from Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, as a justifying argument for the current conservation efforts in the area. Methods: We developed a baseline on the conservation status of the reef structures, bioerosion processes and the source of major natural and anthropogenic impacts. We assessed the genetic diversity of the coral zooxanthellae symbionts, the outcome of a technique of coral transplantation to recover the coverage of living corals and the local ecological knowledge to involve local inhabitants to promote conservation. Results: At least five coral reefs remain exposed to a medium-low level of impact by bioerosion and anthropization. Coral transplantation experiments made in the area showed records of transplant survival nearing 90 %. Although the warming of the sea surface temperature that occurred during the El Niño of 2015-2016 caused coral bleaching and mortality in several coral populations in this area, there were no affectations attributed to this phenomenon in other locations. This response was not related to the level of exposure to anthropogenic impacts, and the presence of thermal resistant zooxanthellae was assessed using molecular tools, confirming the existence of zooxanthellae of the genus Durusdinium. The analysis of local ecological knowledge of the inhabitants of Zihuatanejo showed that they keep elaborate knowledge on the ecology of coral reefs. This is complemented with scientific knowledge that will encourage community participation in conservation strategies. Conclusions: A long-term multidisciplinary strategy is required for coral reef conservation that encompasses: 1) assessing the role of the overall holobiont in the thermal resistance of corals from this area and 2) establishing restoration strategies of coral reefs that include the local knowledge about marine ecology, for the establishment of coral reef protection and management schemes put in place by local inhabitants.

Introducción: Los arrecifes coralinos de Zihuatanejo Guerrero están bien conservados. La cobertura de corales vivos, cerca del 60 %, los hace comparables a otras comunidades coralinas presentes en Oaxaca, Jalisco y Nayarit y con un alto potencial para promover su conservación. Objetivo: Presentar los resultados de 12 años de investigación en las comunidades coralinas de Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, como un argumento que justifica los esfuerzos actuales de conservación en el área. Métodos: Desarrollamos una línea base del estado de conservación de la estructura arrecifal, los procesos de bioerosión y las fuentes principales de impactos naturales y antropogénicos. Evaluamos la diversidad genética de los simbiontes zooxantelados de los corales, el resultado de una técnica de trasplante de corales para recuperar la cobertura de corales vivos y el conocimiento ecológico local para desarrollar estrategias de conservación con participación local. Resultados: Cinco de esas comunidades coralinas permanecen expuestas a un nivel de impacto medio a bajo por bioerosión y antropización. Los experimentos de trasplante de corales en el área mostraron una supervivencia cercana al 90 %. Aunque el calentamiento de la temperatura superficial del mar ocurrido durante el evento El Niño 2015-16 causó blanqueamiento y mortalidad coralina en algunas poblaciones de corales del área, no hubo afectaciones atribuidas a este fenómeno en otras. Esta respuesta no se relacionó con el nivel de exposición a impactos antropogénicos y la presencia de poblaciones de zooxantelas fue examinada usando herramientas moleculares, confirmando la existencia de una población del género Durusdinium. El análisis del conocimiento ecológico local de los habitantes de Zihuatanejo mostró que estos resguardan conocimientos complejos sobre la ecología de las comunidades coralinas. Este conocimiento es complementario al conocimiento científico y servirá para promover estrategias de participación ciudadana en la conservación de las comunidades coralinas. Conclusiones: Se requiere una estrategia multidisciplinaria de largo plazo para la conservación de las comunidades coralinas que incluya: 1) examinar el papel del holobionte completo en la resistencia térmica de los corales de esta área y 2) establecer estrategias de restauración en arrecifes coralinos que incluyan el conocimiento ecológico local para el establecimiento de esquemas de protección y manejo de los arrecifes coralinos a cargo de los habitantes locales.

Recruitment of crustose coralline algae on tiles material for monitoring coral larvae settlement's consolidators at Nature Reserve Pulau Sempu, East Java, Indonesia / Recrutamento de algas coralinas crustosas em azulejos para monitorar consolidadores de assentamentos de larvas de coral na Reserva Natural Pulau Sempu, Java Oriental, Indonésia

Crustose coralline algae (Corallinophycideae) are red algae that produced calcium carbonate and are well recognized as foundation species in the epipelagic zone of the marine ecosystem. These algae induced settlement juvenile of coral by released chemical cues from bacterial communities on the surface of their colonies. Their extracellular calcium carbonate also can stabilize reef structure that influencing many invertebrate attaches and growth in the seabed. Crustose coralline algae (CCA) have obtained attention because of their distribution and health compromise to increasing seawater temperature, ocean acidification, and pollutant. As a cryptic species in the ecosystem, the presence of CCA recruit sometimes doesn’t have attention, especially on their capability to occupy the empty space. This study aimed to document coverage and number of CCA recruit in two different recruitment tile’s material. The highest CCA percentage of the cover was showed inside surface than others surface in all stations. Light intensity and low sedimentation were suggested as a key factor of success of high coverage. Overall, station higher CCA recruits have shown from Tiga Warna. Low sedimentation and protection from aerial exposure became the main reason for it. No significant difference number of CCA recruits between marble and sandstone in this study. Successful CCA recruitment in this study can give a wide picture that natural recruitment of coral and other reef biodiversity in Southern Malang might be will succeed because of the abundance of coralline algae that support their life history stage.

As algas coralinas crustosas (Corallinophycideae) são algas vermelhas que produzem carbonato de cálcio e são bem reconhecidas como espécies de base na zona epipelágica do ecossistema marinho. Essas algas induziram o assentamento juvenil de coral por meio de estímulos químicos liberados por comunidades bacterianas na superfície de suas colônias. Seu carbonato de cálcio extracelular também pode estabilizar a estrutura do recife que influencia muitos invertebrados anexados e crescimento no fundo do mar. As algas coralinas crustosas (CCA) têm obtido atenção devido à sua distribuição e comprometimento da saúde com o aumento da temperatura da água do mar, acidificação dos oceanos e poluentes. Como uma espécie enigmática no ecossistema, a presença de recrutamento CCA às vezes não recebe atenção, especialmente em sua capacidade de ocupar o espaço vazio. Este estudo teve como objetivo documentar a cobertura e o número de recrutamento de CCA em dois materiais de recrutamento diferentes. A maior porcentagem de CCA da cobertura foi mostrada na superfície interna do que nas outras superfícies em todas as estações. A intensidade da luz e a baixa sedimentação foram sugeridas como um fator-chave para o sucesso da alta cobertura. De modo geral, recrutas de CCA mais graduados mostraram-se em Tiga Warna. A baixa sedimentação e a proteção contra a exposição aérea se tornaram a principal razão para isso. Não houve diferença significativa no número de recrutas CCA entre mármore e arenito neste estudo. O recrutamento bem-sucedido de CCA neste estudo pode dar uma imagem ampla de que o recrutamento natural de corais e outros recifes da biodiversidade no sul de Malang será bem-sucedido por causa da abundância de algas coralinas que sustentam seu estágio de história de vida.

Recruitment of crustose coralline algae on tiles material for monitoring coral larvae settlements consolidators at Nature Reserve Pulau Sempu, East Java, Indonesia

Abstract Crustose coralline algae (Corallinophycideae) are red algae that produced calcium carbonate and are well recognized as foundation species in the epipelagic zone of the marine ecosystem. These algae induced settlement juvenile of coral by released chemical cues from bacterial communities on the surface of their colonies. Their extracellular calcium carbonate also can stabilize reef structure that influencing many invertebrate attaches and growth in the seabed. Crustose coralline algae (CCA) have obtained attention because of their distribution and health compromise to increasing seawater temperature, ocean acidification, and pollutant. As a cryptic species in the ecosystem, the presence of CCA recruit sometimes doesnt have attention, especially on their capability to occupy the empty space. This study aimed to document coverage and number of CCA recruit in two different recruitment tiles material. The highest CCA percentage of the cover was showed inside surface than others surface in all stations. Light intensity and low sedimentation were suggested as a key factor of success of high coverage. Overall, station higher CCA recruits have shown from Tiga Warna. Low sedimentation and protection from aerial exposure became the main reason for it. No significant difference number of CCA recruits between marble and sandstone in this study. Successful CCA recruitment in this study can give a wide picture that natural recruitment of coral and other reef biodiversity in Southern Malang might be will succeed because of the abundance of coralline algae that support their life history stage.

Resumo As algas coralinas crustosas (Corallinophycideae) são algas vermelhas que produzem carbonato de cálcio e são bem reconhecidas como espécies de base na zona epipelágica do ecossistema marinho. Essas algas induziram o assentamento juvenil de coral por meio de estímulos químicos liberados por comunidades bacterianas na superfície de suas colônias. Seu carbonato de cálcio extracelular também pode estabilizar a estrutura do recife que influencia muitos invertebrados anexados e crescimento no fundo do mar. As algas coralinas crustosas (CCA) têm obtido atenção devido à sua distribuição e comprometimento da saúde com o aumento da temperatura da água do mar, acidificação dos oceanos e poluentes. Como uma espécie enigmática no ecossistema, a presença de recrutamento CCA às vezes não recebe atenção, especialmente em sua capacidade de ocupar o espaço vazio. Este estudo teve como objetivo documentar a cobertura e o número de recrutamento de CCA em dois materiais de recrutamento diferentes. A maior porcentagem de CCA da cobertura foi mostrada na superfície interna do que nas outras superfícies em todas as estações. A intensidade da luz e a baixa sedimentação foram sugeridas como um fator-chave para o sucesso da alta cobertura. De modo geral, recrutas de CCA mais graduados mostraram-se em Tiga Warna. A baixa sedimentação e a proteção contra a exposição aérea se tornaram a principal razão para isso. Não houve diferença significativa no número de recrutas CCA entre mármore e arenito neste estudo. O recrutamento bem-sucedido de CCA neste estudo pode dar uma imagem ampla de que o recrutamento natural de corais e outros recifes da biodiversidade no sul de Malang será bem-sucedido por causa da abundância de algas coralinas que sustentam seu estágio de história de vida.

Diversidad de los hábitats submareales de la Península de Santa Elena e Islas Murciélago, Pacífico Norte, Costa Rica

Introducción: Los hábitats costeros de todo el mundo están experimentando una presión cada vez mayor debido a la contaminación, el desarrollo costero, la pesca y el cambio climático. Identificar y registrar la biodiversidad costera es esencial para evaluar la salud, los cambios y el alcance de la pérdida de biodiversidad de los ecosistemas. Los hábitats costeros tropicales como los arrecifes de coral y los lechos de pastos marinos han sido el foco de investigación de los científicos durante las últimas décadas; sin embargo, se han descuidado otros ecosistemas, como los bosques de macroalgas, los fondos de sedimentos submareales (20-30 m de profundidad) y los arrecifes rocosos. Objetivo: Este trabajo reporta la biodiversidad marina asociada con arrecifes rocosos, arrecifes de coral, bosques de Sargazo y fondos submareales sedimentarios (20-30 m de profundidad), en un área tropical de afloramiento estacional (Península de Santa Elena, Bahía de Santa Elena e Islas Murciélago, Costa Rica). Métodos: Durante la Expedición Santa Elena (21 de abril-2 de mayo de 2018), se visitaron un total de 28 sitios para registrar la biodiversidad en cuatro hábitats diferentes (arrecifes rocosos y de coral, bosques de sargazo y fondos de sedimentos submareales), utilizando SCUBA, en muestreos sistemáticos, evaluaciones visuales y en algunos fondos de sedimentos se utilizó una draga de arrastre por 20 minutos. Resultados: Se identificaron un total de 254 taxones, siendo los peces óseos el grupo más diverso con 91 especies, seguido de los gasterópodos (25 spp.), las algas rojas (21 spp.) y los antozoos (19 spp.). Se reportan cuatro nuevos registros para el Pacífico continental de Costa Rica, incluida la subclase de una anémona tubícola (Ceriantharia). Conclusiones: Los resultados muestran que la península de Santa Elena, la bahía de Santa Elena y las islas Murciélago albergan hábitats poco comunes y no estudiados, como bosques del alga parda Sargassum, fondos de sedimentos, arrecifes construidos por el coral masivo Pavona gigantea, que es muy inusual, y comunidades de arrecifes rocosos dominadas por colonias calcáreas de poliquetos (Salmacina tribranchiata).

Introduction: Worldwide, coastal habitats are experiencing increasing pressure from pollution, coastal development, fisheries, and climate change. Identifying and recording coastal biodiversity is essential to assess ecosystem health, changes and the extent of biodiversity loss. Coastal tropical habitats such as coral reefs and seagrass beds have been the research focus for scientists during the last decades; however, other ecosystems have been neglected, such as macroalgae forests, subtidal (20-30 m deep) sedimentary bottoms, and rocky reefs. Objective: Our study reports the marine biodiversity associated with rocky reefs, coral reefs, Sargassum forests and sedimentary subtidal bottoms (20-30 m deep), in a tropical seasonal upwelling area (Santa Elena Peninsula, Santa Elena Bay, and Murciélago Islands, Costa Rica). Methods: During the 'Santa Elena Expedition' (April 21-May 2 2018), a total of 28 sites were visited in order to record the biodiversity across four different habitats (rocky and coral reefs, Sargassum forests, subtidal sedimentary bottoms), using SCUBA and both systematic surveys and visual assessments; in some sedimentary bottoms a 20-minute dredge tows were done. Results: A total of 254 taxa were identified, being bony fishes the most diverse group (91 species), followed by gastropods (25 spp.), red algae (21 spp.) and anthozoans (19 spp.). We report four new records for the Pacific mainland of Costa Rica, including the subclass of tube-dwelling sea anemone (Ceriantharia). Conclusions: Our results show that Santa Elena Peninsula, Santa Elena Bay, and Murciélago Islands harbor uncommon and unstudied habitats, such as Sargassum forests, sedimentary bottoms, reefs constructed by the stony coral Pavona gigantea -which is very unusual- and rocky reef communities dominated by calcareous colonies of polychaetes (Salmacina tribranchiata).

Reef fishes biodiversity and conservation at the largest Brazilian coastal Marine Protected Area (MPA Costa dos Corais)

Abstract Coral reefs harbor one of the largest fish biodiversity on earth; yet information on reef fishes is still absent for many regions. We analyzed reef fish richness, distribution, and conservation on the largest Brazilian multiple use coastal MPA; which cover a large extent of coral reefs at the SWA. A total of 325 fish species have been listed for MPA Costa dos Corais, including Chondrichthyes (28 species) and Actinopterygii (297). Fish species were represented by 81 families and the most representative families were Carangidae (23 species), Labridae (21) and Gobiidae (15). The MPA fish richness represented 44% of all recorded fish species of the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean (SWA) highlighting the large-scale importance of this MPA. A total of 40 species (12%) are registered at Near Threatened (NT), Vulnerable (VU), Endangered (EN) or Critically Endangered (CR). This study reinforces the importance of MPA Costa dos Corais on reef fish biodiversity and conservation and emphasize the urgent need of conservation strategies.

Resumo Os recifes de coral abrigam uma das maiores biodiversidades de peixes do planeta; no entanto, as informações sobre peixes de recife ainda estão ausentes em muitas regiões. Analisamos a riqueza, distribuição e a conservação de peixes recifais na maior Área de Proteção Ambiental (APA) costeira de uso múltiplo do Brasil; área que possui grande extensão de recifes de corais no SWA. Um total de 325 espécies de peixes foram listadas para APA Costa dos Corais, incluindo Chondrichthyes (28 espécies) e Actinopterygii (297). As espécies de peixes foram representadas por 81 famílias e as famílias mais representativas foram Carangidae (23 espécies), Labridae (21) e Gobiidae (15). A riqueza de peixes da APA representou 44% de todas as espécies de peixes registradas no Oceano Atlântico Sudoeste (SWA), destacando a importância em grande escala desta APA. Um total de 40 espécies (12%) estão registradas como Quase Ameaçada (NT), Vulnerável (VU), Em Perigo (EN) ou Criticamente Em Perigo (CR). Este estudo reforça a importância da APA Costa dos Corais na biodiversidade e conservação dos peixes recifais e enfatiza a necessidade urgente de estratégias de conservação.

Cnidae sizes in the two morphotypes of the giant Caribbean anemone Condylactis gigantea (Actiniaria: Actiniidae) / Tamaños de cnidae en dos morfotipos de la anémona gigante del Caribe Condylactis gigantea (Actiniaria: Actiniidae)

Abstract The sea anemone Condylactis gigantea is an ecologically important member of the benthic community in coral reefs of the tropical Atlantic, and displays two morphotypes with respect to the color in their tentacular tips: the green tip morphotype and the pink/purple tip morphotype. Although some molecular and ecological differences have been found between these morphotypes, no other morphological distinctions have been reported, and currently both are still considered a single taxonomic species. In the present study, we perform an exploration on the variability in the size of cnidae between these two morphotypes and performed statistical analyses to compare the 10 categories of cnidae from specimens hosted in the Cnidarian Collection of Gulf of Mexico and Mexican Caribbean, of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, which were previously collected in several coral reefs localities of the Yucatán Peninsula. Results reveal no significant variation in cnidae size between the two morphotypes, but significant variations were found within each morphotype. In addition, we update the composition of the cnidom of C. gigantea, and the utility of the size of cnidae to distinguish between morphotypes or closely related species is discussed. Rev. Biol. Trop. 66(3): 1055-1064. Epub 2018 September 01.

Resumen La anémona Condylactis gigantea es un miembro ecológicamente importante de la comunidad bentónica en arrecifes de coral del Atlántico tropical, y exhibe dos morfotipos con respecto al color de las puntas de sus tentáculos: el morfotipo de puntas verdes y el morfotipo de puntas rosadas/púrpuras. Aunque se han encontrado algunas diferencias moleculares y ecológicas entre estos morfotipos, no se han reportado otras distinciones morfológicas, y actualmente ambos siguen siendo considerados una sola especie taxonómica. En el presente estudio, realizamos una exploración sobre la variabilidad en el tamaño de los cnidocistos entre estos dos morfotipos y realizamos un análisis estadístico de 10 categorías de cnidocistos a partir de especímenes albergados en la Colección de cnidarios del Golfo de México y Caribe Mexicano, de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, los cuales fueron previamente recolectados en varias localidades arrecifales de la Península de Yucatán. Los resultados no revelan variación significativa en el tamaño de los cnidocistos entre los dos morfotipos, aunque fueron encontradas variaciones significativas dentro de cada morfotipo. Adicionalmente, actualizamos la composición del cnidoma de C. gigantea, y discutimos sobre la utilidad de la talla de los cnidocistos para distinguir entre morfotipos o entre especies estrechamente relacionadas.

Population dynamics of Siderastrea stellata Verrill, 1868 from Rocas Atoll, RN: implications for predicted climate change impacts at the only South Atlantic atoll

ABSTRACT Coral reefs are one of the most vulnerable ecosystems to ocean warming and acidification, and it is important to determine the role of reef building species in this environment in order to obtain insight into their susceptibility to expected impacts of global changes. Aspects of the life history of a coral population, such as reproduction, growth and size-frequency can contribute to the production of models that are used to estimate impacts and potential recovery of the population, acting as a powerful tool for the conservation and management of those ecosystems. Here, we present the first evidence of Siderastrea stellata planulation, its early growth, population size-frequency distribution and growth rate of adult colonies in Rocas Atoll. Our results, together with the environmental protection policies and the absence of anthropogenic pressures, suggest that S. stellata population may have a good potential in the maintenance and recovery in the atoll. However, our results also indicate an impact on corals' recruitment, probably as a consequence of the positive temperature anomaly that occurred in 2010. Thus, despite the pristine status of Rocas Atoll, the preservation of its coral community seems to be threatened by current global changes, such as more frequent thermal stress events.

Influence of sediments and tungsten traces on the skeletal structure of Pseudodiploria: a reef building scleractinian coral from the Veracruz Reef System National Park, Mexico / Influencia de los sedimentos y trazas de tungsteno en la estructura del esqueleto de Pseudodiploria un coral escleractinio constructor de arrecifes del Parque Nacional Sistema Arrecifal Veracruzano, México

Abstract:Coral reefs are under intense conditions of stress caused by the anthropogenic activities in coastal areas and the increase of human population. Water effluents from urban and industrial areas carry large amounts of sediments and pollutants affecting corals populations, inducing bioerosion, increasing diseases and promoting the development of algae that compete for space with corals. In the Veracruz Reef System National Park (VRSNP) coral reefs are strongly affected by human activities carried out in the area. Gallega and Galleguilla reefs are among the most affected by wastewater discharges from the industrial (petrochemical and metallurgical) and urban areas in their vicinity. To assess the potential impact of this contamination on corals in the VRSNP, a chemical composition and morphology study of 76 Pseudodiploria colonies collected in reefs Gallega, Galleguilla, Isla Verde and Isla de Enmedio, was performed. Fragments of ~10 cm2 were collected and boric acid at 0.5 % was used to remove tissue from the skeleton; once clean, the morphology of each sample was determined with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Subsequently, to test the chemical composition, an energy dispersion spectroscopy of X-ray chemical microanalysis (EDSX) was performed in the SEM. We found that corals from Gallega and Galleguilla reefs, located closer to human populations, presented high levels of tungsten and the skeleton exhibited multiple perforations. In contrast, corals from the farthest offshore reefs (Isla Verde and Isla de Enmedio) exhibited lower levels of tungsten and fewer perforations in their skeleton. These results demonstrated that anthropogenic activities in the NPVRS are affecting corals skeleton, highly damaging and promoting their bioerosion. The presence of traces of tungsten in the skeleton of corals is an evidence of the damage that waste discharges are causing to coral reefs. Discharges of large amounts of contaminants promoted the growth of harmful species that grow and develop into the corals skeleton, causing its bioerosion, and making them susceptible to disease and physical damage. This study is the first evidence of the effects of contamination on these species; therefore, further studies are necessary to determine the impact of pollution on their biology and survival. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (3): 1077-1089. Epub 2016 September 01.

ResumenLos arrecifes de coral se encuentran bajo condiciones intensas de estrés causado por las actividades antropogénicas y el incremento de las poblaciones humanas en las zonas costeras. Las descargas de aguas de origen urbano e industrial transportan sedimentos y contaminantes que afectan a las poblaciones de corales, induciendo la bioerosion, el aumento de enfermedades en los corales y promueven el desarrollo de algas que compiten por espacio con los corales. En el Parque Nacional Sistema Arrecifal Veracruzano (NPVRS) los arrecifes de coral son afectados fuertemente por las actividades humanas que se llevan a cabo en la zona. Los arrecifes Gallega y Galleguilla son de los más afectados por las descargas de aguas residuales provenientes de la industria (petroquímica y metalúrgica) y de áreas urbanas que desembocan sus aguas en las proximidades de los arrecifes. Para evaluar el posible impacto de las descargas de aguas en los corales del NPVRS, se realizó un estudio de la composición química y morfología de 76 colonias de Pseudodiploria en los arrecifes Gallega, Galleguilla, Isla Verde e Isla de Enmedio. Se recolectaron fragmentos de ~10 cm2, el tejido del esqueleto fue removido utilizando ácido bórico al 0.5 %. Una vez limpia la muestra, la morfología fue analizada con un microscopio electrónico de barrido (SEM), posteriormente, para analizar la composición química de las muestras, realizamos una espectroscopia de dispersión de energía o micro-análisis químico de rayos X (EDSX) en el SEM. Encontramos que los corales de los arrecifes Gallega y Galleguilla que se encuentran ubicados cerca de poblaciones humanas, presentan altos niveles de tungsteno y el esqueleto exhibe múltiples agujeros. En contraste, los corales de los arrecifes más lejanos (Isla Verde e Isla de En medio) mostraron niveles más bajos de tungsteno y un menor número de agujeros en su esqueleto. Nuestros resultados demuestran que las actividades antropogénicas en el NPVRS, están afectando el esqueleto de los corales y promueven la bioerosión. Las descargas de grandes cantidades de contaminantes hacia las zonas costeras, promueven el crecimiento de especies dañinas que crecen y se desarrollan dentro del esqueleto de los corales, causando bioerosión del esqueleto, haciéndolos susceptibles a enfermedades y daños físicos. Debido a que este estudio es la primera evidencia de los efectos de la contaminación sobre esta especie de corales, son necesarios más estudios para determinar el impacto de la contaminación sobre su biología y la supervivencia de los corales.

Coral communities condition in varying wave exposure: the gulf of Cazones, Cuba / Condición de comunidades coralinas con diferente exposición al oleaje: El Golfo de Cazones, Cuba

Abstract Wave exposure can influence community structure and distribution of shallow coral reefs, by affecting organisms both directly and indirectly. To assess the current stony coral community condition under different degrees of wave exposure at a marine protected area of the Gulf of Cazones (SW Cuba), two expeditions were carried out in May 2010 and June 2012. Four sampling sites were sampled at reef crests (1.5 m deep), and twelve at fore-reefs, at 10, 15 and 20 m deep in four geographic locations. Live coral cover, species richness and composition, colony density, and maximum diameter were assessed using the AGRRA 2001 methodology. Multivariate and non-parametric statistics were applied to compare sites. The coral community structure within reef crests was not homogenous. The observed variability of indicators apparently was determined by great coral mortality events resulting from natural disturbances that occurred in the past (hurricanes, bleaching and diseases). Forereef coral communities displayed better condition and lower coral mortality than reef crests. Species richness and coral composition varied, while multivariate and statistical methods did not reveal site grouping with regard to wave exposure. The remaining biological condition indicators were similar among sites, except in the most exposed one, where coral cover and coral size were slightly lower. Wave exposure in the gulf of Cazones seemed not to have a significant influence on differences in condition and structure of the assessed coral communities. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (1): 78-93. Epub 2016 March 01.

ResumenEl oleaje es una perturbación natural que puede inferir en la estructura y condición de los arrecifes de coral someros, afectando los organismos directa e indirectamente. Para evaluar la condición de comunidades de corales con diferente exposición al oleaje, se realizaron dos expediciones al Área Marina Protegida del Golfo de Cazones durante mayo 2010 y junio 2012. Se escogieron cuatro arrecifes (localidades) ubicados en posiciones diferentes del golfo. Se ubicaron cuatro sitios en la zona de cresta (1.5 m de profundidad) y 12 en la zona de arrecife frontal (en cuatro localidades a 10, 15 y 20 m de profundidad) donde se replicaron transectos lineales (10 m de largo) de muestreo. Se evaluó la cobertura de coral vivo, riqueza y composición por especies, densidad y diámetro máximo de las colonias mediante la metodología AGRRA 2001. Para la comparación entre sitios se aplicaron métodos evaluativos multivariados y análisis estadísticos no paramétricos. La estructura y condición de la comunidad de corales en las crestas fue distinta pero la variabilidad observada parece responder a grandes eventos de mortalidad producto de huracanes, blanqueamientos y enfermedades del pasado. La condición de los arrecifes frontales fue más favorable observándose menor mortalidad coralina. La riqueza y composición por especies fue variable y los métodos estadísticos y multivariados no definieron grupos de sitios con similitud respecto a la exposición al oleaje. Los demás indicadores biológicos de condición fueron parecidos entre sitios, excepto en el más expuesto al oleaje, donde la cobertura y la talla de los corales fueron ligeramente inferiores. En general, la diferente influencia del oleaje dentro del golfo de Cazones, parece no afectar significativamente la estructura y condición de las comunidades coralinas.

Bacterias autótrofas y heterótrofas asociadas a nieve marina lodosa en arrecifes con escorrentía continental / Autotrophic and heterotrophic bacteria associated to muddy marine snow in reefs with terrestrial runoff / Bacterias autótrofas e heterotróficas associadas a neve marinila lodosa em recifes com escoamento continental

En agregados de nieve marina influenciada por escorrentía continental, la densidad de bacterias heterótrofas es mayor que la de autótrofas. Esta premisa fue puesta a prueba en cuatro zonas arrecifales localizadas a diferente distancia del Canal del Dique; principal fuente de aportes continentales a los arrecifes de coral del Archipiélago Nuestra Señora del Rosario, Cartagena, Caribe colombiano. Mediante epifluorescencia se determinó densidad promedio de microorganismos presentes en agregados de nieve marina. Los resultados mostraron mayor densidad de bacterias heterótrofas (3.63 x 10(4) ± 1.6 x 10(4) SE células mL-1) que de autótrofas (6 x 10³± 1.3 x 10³ SE células mL-1), principalmente en arrecifes cercanos a descarga de escorrentía continental (bacterias heterótrofas con densidad 8.9 x 10(4) células mL-1 y 3 x 10(4) células mL-1 para Isla Arena y Tesoro, respectivamente). La densidad de microorganismos encontrada es típica de zonas con alto contenido de materia orgánica particulada; por lo cual podría servir como potencial indicador de escorrentía continental. Estudios futuros deben enfocarse en determinar la composición de comunidad bacteriana asociada a nieve marina y posible virulencia sobre organismos arrecifales.

Em aglomerados de neve marinha influenciados por escoamento continental, a densidade de bacterias heterotróficas é maior que a de autótrofas. Esta premissa foi posta a prova em quatro zonas de recifes localizadas em diferentes distancias do Canal de Dique; principal fonte de contribuic.ao continental aos recifes do coral do Arquipélago Nossa Senhora do Rosàrio, Cartagena, Caribe colombiano. Mediante epifluorescencia determinou-se densidade de micro-organismos presentes em aglomerados de neve marinha. Os resultados mostraram maior densidade de bacterias heterotróficas (3.63 x 10(4) ± 1.6 x 10(4) SE células mL-1) que de autótrofas (6 x 10³ ± 1.3 x 10³ SE células mL-1), principalmente em recifes próximos a descarga de escoamento continental (bacterias heterotróficas com densidade 8.9 x 10(4) células mL-1 y 3 x 10(4) células mL-1 para a Ilha Arena e Tesoro, respetivamente). A densidade de micro-organismos é típica de zonas com elevado conteúdo de matéria orgànica particulada; pela qual pode servir como potencial indicador de escoamento continental. Estudos futuros devem enfocar-se em determinar a composicäo da comunidade bacteriana associada a neve marinha e possível virulencia sobre organismos recifais.

The density of heterotrophic bacteria is greater than autotrophic in marine snow aggregates influenced by continental runoff. Four coral reef areas at different distances from the Canal del Dique served to evaluate this premise; this canal is the main source of inland resources for the coral reefs of the Nuestra Señora del Rosario archipelago in Cartagena in the Colombian Caribbean. The average density of microorganisms in marine snow aggregates was determined using epifluorescence. The results showed higher density of heterotrophic bacteria (3.63 x 10(4) ± 1.6 x 10(4) SE cells mL-1) than autotrophic (6 x 10³± 1.3 x 10³ SE cells mL-1), mainly in reefs near continental runoff discharges (heterotrophic bacteria density of 8.9 x 10(4) cells mL-1 and 3 x 10(4) cells mL-1 Isla Arena and Tesoro, respectively). The density of microorganisms found is typical of high-particulate organic matter areas and, therefore, could be a potential indicator of continental runoff. Future studies should focus on determining the composition of the bacterial community associated with marine snow and its potential virulence on reef organisms.

Population assessment of Acropora palmata (Scleractinia: Acroporidae): relationship between habitat and reef associated species / Evaluación poblacional de Acropora palmata (Scleractinia: Acroporidae): relación entre el hábitat y especies de arrecife asociados

Three decades ago, Acropora palmata was one of the main reef-building coral species throughout the Caribbean, forming an essential component of the structural complexity of shallow coral reef habitats. These colonies still provide microhabitats for settlement, food and shelter to many vertebrates and invertebrates. The recent decline of A. palmata has been followed by a significant loss in spatial heterogeneity and possibly in species diversity. Studies addressing whether dead and living stands of Acropora hold different fish and benthic assemblages are scarce. The status of Acropora colonies and their associated species were assessed in October 2012, at two reef zones of Cayo Sombrero, Venezuela. Visual censuses of fish abundance and the number of macrofaunal individuals were recorded for both live and dead zones. Living Acropora colonies had the lowest abundance (˂31%). In both zoned the fish community was dominated by damselfishes (˂53%) and wrasses (˂36%), the benthic macrofauna by peracarid crustaceans (˂40%) and polychaetes (˂38%). Fish and benthic communities were not correlated with the condition (live or dead) of the Acropora habitats; possibly branching structures provide the necessary shelter and protection no matter if they are dead or alive. More replication is necessary to test this unexpected result.

Hace tres décadas, Acropora palmata fue una de las principales especies de coral constructoras de arrecifes a lo largo del Caribe, formando un componente esencial de la complejidad estructural disponible en los hábitats arrecifales someros. Estas colonias todavía proveen microhábitats para el asentamiento, alimentación y refugio de muchas especies de vertebrados e invertebrados. El declive reciente de A. palmata ha sido precedido por una pérdida significativa de heterogeneidad espacial y se piensa que ésta reducción ha producido una disminución importante en la diversidad de especies. Los estudios señalan que las colonias muertas o vivas de Acropora que sostienen diferentes comunidades de bentos y de peces son escasas. El estado de las colonias de Acropora y sus especies asociadas fueron evaluadas en Octubre de 2012, en dos zonas arrecifales diferentes de Cayo Sombrero, Venezuela. Censos visuales de la abundancia de especies de peces y el número de individuos de la macrofauna fueron también registrados para ambas zonas, tanto vivas como muertas. Las colonias vivas presentaron la menor abundancia (˂31%). En ambos sitios la comunidad de peces fue dominada por los peces damiselas (˂53%) y lábridos (˂36%); la macrofauna bentónica por crustáceos peracáridos (˂40%) y poliquetos (˂38%). Las comunidades de peces y bentos no mostraron correlación con la condición (vivo o muerto) de los hábitats de Acropora; posiblemente las estructuras ramificadas proveen el refugio y protección necesario sin importar si están vivos o muertos. Una mayor replicación es necesaria para probar este resultado inesperado.

Bomb-cratered coral reefs in Puerto Rico, the untold story about a novel habitat: from reef destruction to community-based ecological rehabilitation / Los arrecifes de coral con craters-bomba en Puerto Rico, la historia no contada sobre un hábitat inusual: desde la destrucción de arrecifes hasta la rehabilitación ecológica basada en la comunidad

Ecological impacts of military bombing activities in Puerto Rico have often been described as minimal, with recurrent allegations of confounding effects by hurricanes, coral diseases and local anthropogenic stressors. Reef craters, though isolated, are associated with major colony fragmentation and framework pulverization, with a net permanent loss of reef bio-construction. In contrast, adjacent non-bombarded reef sections have significantly higher benthic spatial relief and biodiversity. We compared benthic communities on 35-50 year-old bomb-cratered coral reefs at Culebra and Vieques Islands, with adjacent non-impacted sites; 2) coral recruit density and fish community structure within and outside craters; and 3) early effects of a rehabilitation effort using low-tech Staghorn coral Acropora cervicornis farming. Reef craters ranged in size from approximately 50 to 400m² and were largely dominated by heavily fragmented, flattened benthos, with coral cover usually below 2% and dominance by non-reef building taxa (i.e., filamentous algal turfs, macroalgae). Benthic spatial heterogeneity was lower within craters which also resulted in a lowered functional value as fish nursery ground. Fish species richness, abundance and biomass, and coral recruit density were lower within craters. Low-tech, community-based approaches to culture, harvest and transplant A. cervicornis into formerly bombarded grounds have proved successful in increasing percent coral cover, benthic spatial heterogeneity, and helping rehabilitate nursery ground functions.

Los impactos ecológicos de las actividades militares de bombardeos en Puerto Rico se han descrito a menudo como mínimos, con recurrentes denuncias al confundir efectos por huracanes, enfermedades de corales y estresores antropogénicos locales. Los cráteres de arrecife, aunque aislados, están relacionados con una alta fragmentación de la colonia y pulverización del contorno, con una pérdida neta permanente de arrecife en bio-construcción. En contraste, secciones adyacentes de arrecife no bombardeado tienen mayor biodiversidad y mayor relieve espacial bentónico. Comparamos las comunidades bentónicas en cráteres-bomba de arrecifes de coral con 35-50 años de antigüedad en las islas de Vieques, Puerto Rico, en comparación con los sitios adyacentes no impactados; 2) la densidad de reclutamiento de coral y estructura de la comunidad de peces dentro y fuera de los cráteres; y 3) impactos preliminares de un esfuerzo de rehabilitación basado en la comunidad arrecifal usando tecnología simple con el cultivo del coral Staghorn Acropora cervicornis. Los cráteres de arrecife se distancian en tamaño de aproximadamente 50 a 400m² y fueron dominados ampliamente por fragmentos de bentos aplanado, con una cubierta de coral generalmente por debajo de 2% y el predominio de taxones no constructores de arrecifes (es decir, tapetes de algas filamentosas, macroalgas). La heterogeneidad espacial bentónica fue significativamente menor dentro de cráteres que también resultaron en un reducido valor funcional como tierra de vivero de peces. La riqueza de especies de peces, abundancia y biomasa y densidad coral recluta fueron significativamente menores dentro de cráteres. Tecnología simple, basada en los enfoques de cultivo de comunidad, la cosecha y transplante de A. cervicornis en terrenos anteriormente bombardeados han demostrado un éxito al aumentar el porcentaje de cobertura de coral, la heterogeneidad espacial bentónica y ayudando a rehabilitar funcionalmente la tierra para vivero.

The results of long term coral reef monitoring at three locations in Jamaica: Monkey Island, "Gorgo City" and Southeast Cay / Resultados del monitoreo a largo plazo en los arrecifes de coral en tres lugares de Jamaica: Isla Monkey, "Ciudad Gorgo" y Cayo Sureste

The global and regional impacts of climate change are having devastating consequences on the coral reef ecosystems of the Caribbean. Long term monitoring are important tool for assessing reef health. Monitoring was established in 2000 in the Bahamas, Belize and Jamaica. Following the pilot project, the program was institutionalized in Jamaica and monitoring was conducted on eight occasions from 2000 to 2010. Monkey Island and “Gorgo City” near Discovery Bay (both on the north coast) and Southeast Cay at Port Royal on the south coast were selected. Macroalgae dominated the benthic substrate. Monkey Island and “Gorgo City” had the highest coral cover. Porites astreoides, Montastraea spp., Porites porities, Siderastrea siderea, and Agaricia agaricites were the most common species. Data from this programme have been used in local and regional coral reef assessment and management initiatives.

Los impactos regionales y globales del cambio climático están teniendo consecuencias devastadoras en los ecosistemas de arrecifes de coral en el Caribe. Se establecieron monitoreos en el 2000 en Las Bahamas, Belice y Jamaica. Siguiendo el proyecto piloto, el programa se institucionalizó en Jamaica y el monitoreo se llevó a cabo en ocho ocasiones del 2000 al 2010. Se seleccionaron los sitios: Isla Monkey, “Ciudad Gorgo “ cerca de la Bahía Discovery (ambos en la costa norte) y el Cayo Sureste en el Puerto Royal en el sur de la costa. Las macroalgas dominaban el sustrato bentónico. Isla Monkey y “Ciudad Gorgo” tuvieron la mayor cobertura de coral. Porites astreoides, Montastraea spp, Porites porities, Siderastrea siderea, y Agaricia agaricites representan las especies de corales más frecuentes. Los datos de este programa se han utilizado en las iniciativas de evaluación y manejo de arrecifes de coral locales y regionales.

Status of the coral reefs in Foul and Folly Bays, Morant Wetlands, south-eastern Jamaica, with emphasis on corals and macroalgae / Estado de los arrecifes de coral en Foul and Folly Bays, Morant Wetlands, sureste de Jamaica, con énfasis en corales y macroalgas

Foul and Folly Bays are located within the Morant Wetlands near the eastern tip of Jamaica. They have never been investigated but were believed to be important for larval productivity because of the extent of benthic habitats, absence of major coastal developments and remote location. The study was aimed at providing baseline data on the spatial distribution and status of corals and associated benthos. We investigated coral reefs and associated areas with phototransects at eight stations analysed with the Coral Point Count software. Most areas were dominated by algae, evidence of a phase shift from coral to algal reefs. Coral cover varied significantly across the bays (ANOVA, p= 0.0342) with a maximum of 27.03% at the deepest station and a mean of 5.6% at all other stations combined. Mean cover of macroalgae was 39% and varied significantly across stations (α= 0.05, F= 7.472, p= 0.005). The deepest station also had the highest percentage of calcareous algae and live coral while dead coral with algae (DCA) was a significant variable across all other stations (ANOVA, p<0.001). Gorgonians (ANOVA, p<0.001), sponges and urchins were also assessed. Diadema antillarum was not observed at any station. Overall the status of the reefs was poor, probably due to overfishing, absence of urchins and the resultant algal proliferation.

Las bahías Foul y Folly se encuentran dentro de los Humedales Morant cerca de la punta oriental de la isla de Jamaica. Estos dos bahías nunca han sido investigadas pero se cree que son áreas importantes para la productividad larvaria debido a la extensión de los hábitats bentónicos, ausencia de desarrollos importantes a lo largo de la costa y la ubicación remota de la zona. El estudio tuvo como objetivo proporcionar datos de referencia sobre la distribución espacial y el estado de los corales y del bentos asociado. Investigamos los arrecifes coralinos y áreas asociadas utilizando fototransectos en ocho estaciones analizadas con el programa Coral Point Count. La mayoría de las áreas tuvieron predominio algal, mostrando evidencia del desplazamiento de fase de coral a algas. La cobertura de coral varió significativamente a través de las bahías (ANOVA , p= 0.0342), con un máximo de 27.03% en la estación estación más profunda y una media de 5.6% en todas las demás estaciones combinadas. La media de porcentaje de cobertura de macroalgas fue de 39% y varió significativamente entre las estaciones (α= 0.05, F= 7.472, p= 0.005). La estación mas profunda presentaba el mayor porcentaje de algas calcáreas y coral vivo, mientras que el coral muerto con algas (DCA) fue una variable significativa en todas las demás estaciones (ANOVA , p<0.001). También se evaluaron las gorgonias (ANOVA , p<0.001), esponjas y erizos de mar. No se observó Diadema antillarum en todas las estaciones dentro de los transectos. En general, el estado de los arrecifes era pobre, probablemente debido a la pesca excesiva, la ausencia de erizos y la proliferación de algas resultante.

A comparison of visual and collection-based methods for assessing community structure of coral reef fishes in the Tropical Eastern Pacific / Una comparación de métodos visuales y basados ​​en colecciones para evaluar la estructura de la comunidad de peces de arrecifes de coral en el Pacífico Oriental Tropical

Gorgona Island, the major insular area in the Colombian Pacific Ocean, is characterized by a remarkably high biological and ecosystem diversity for this area of the world. Coral reefs are well developed and their fish communities have been described using conventional visual surveys. These methods, however, are known to be biased towards detecting larger and more mobile species, tending to ignore small and cryptobenthic species. The two main objectives of this study were to describe the assemblage structure of the cryptobenthic fish fauna and estimate the extent to which this fauna is underestimated by visual surveys.At the beginning and the end of the warm season, we compared the cryptobenthic fish assemblage recorded using visual surveys against the one recorded using “enclosed anesthetic/rotenone samples” on isolated coral colonies (N=54 beginning of warm season; N=17 end of warm season). The crypthobenthic fish fauna associated to coral colonies was characterized by small body sizes and was composed mainly by species of the families Antennaridae, Blennidae, Gobiidae, Labrisomidae, Muraenidae, Serranidae, Scorpaenidae and Syngnathidae. Conventional visual surveys underestimated overall species richness by 28-36% and number of individuals by 16-35%. Noteworthy, four species recorded during this study using “enclosed anesthetic/rotenone samples” were new records for Gorgona Island. Although both sampling methods can detect a largely overlapping group of species, the “enclosed anesthetic/rotenone samples” method was able to detect more individuals and species, including several species that visual surveys fail to detect. Although this study is the first effort to describe the cryptobenthic fish assemblage associated to coral reefs in the Tropical Eastern Pacific, our results suggest that these assemblages are an important component of the reef fish community in the region in terms of biodiversity and functional roles. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (Suppl. 1): 359-371. Epub 2014 February 01.

Métodos de muestreo convencionales (censos visuales) usados en el estudio de peces arrecifales han llevado a una constante subestimación de la riqueza de especies, ya que estos tienden a ignorar especies pequeñas y crípticas. En este estudio describimos la estructura del ensamblaje de peces criptobentónicos en Isla Gorgona, Colombia y estimamos el grado en que este ensamblaje es subestimado al usar censos visuales. Al comienzo y al final de la estación cálida comparamos la capacidad de detección de censos visuales vs “muestreos cerrados con anestésico/rotenona” (N=54 comienzo; N=17 final). La fauna criptobentónica se caracterizó por mantener individuos de tamaños corporales pequeños, pertenecientes principalmente a las familias Antennaridae, Blennidae, Gobiidae, Labrisomidae, Muraenidae, Serranidae, Scorpaenidae and Syngnathidae. Los censos visuales subestimaron la riqueza de especies en un 28-36% y el número de individuos en un 16-35%. Aunque un gran número de especies son detectadas usando ambos métodos, los “muestreos cerrados con anestésico/rotenona” detectan un mayor rango de especies. Este estudio, el primer esfuerzo para describir el ensamblaje de peces criptobentónicos asociados a arrecifes coralinos en Colombia, sugiere que la fauna criptobentónica puede ser un componente importante de la comunidad arrecifal en términos de biodiversidad y papel funcional.

Invertebrate colonization on artificial substrates in a coral reef at Gorgona Island, Colombian Pacific Ocean / Colonización de invertebrados sobre sustratos artificiales en un arrecife de coral en la Isla Gorgona, Océano Pacífico colombiano

Habitat colonization is a fundamental process in marine population dinamics and community ecology. Marine invertebrate colonization of artificial hard substrates and its spatial variation was studied over the course of one year at La Azufrada coral reef, Gorgona Island, Colombia. Five sets of artificial plates (terracotta and ceramic) were deployed parallel to the bottom in each of three reef zones (backreef, flat and slope). Plates were recovered after 12 months of their installation. The community that developed on the artificial substrate plates was composed of 24 taxa, among which corals were remarkably absent. Species richness on plates did not differ between reef zones, type of plate material or plate surfaces. The resulting community was dominated by barnacles (Balanus trigonus) with a mean density of 26 787.8 (±47 301.0) individuals/m² (mean±1S.D.). The density of this species was significantly higher on plates deployed on the reef slope than on the reef flat or back reef, and was lower on the upper than on the lower or lateral surfaces of plates. The dominance of B. trigonus on artificial plates during this experiment suggests a possible synergistic effect between its reproductive traits and competitive ability for space, which prevents the successful recruitment of other reef organisms such as corals. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (Suppl. 1): 161-168. Epub 2014 February 01.

La colonización de hábitat disponible es un proceso fundamental de la ecología de poblaciones y comunidades de organismos marinos. La colonización sobre sustratos artificiales por invertebrados y su variación espacial fue estudiada por un año en el arrecife coralino de La Azufrada, Isla Gorgona (Colombia). Cinco juegos de baldosas (terracota y grés) fueron dispuestos en tres zonas arrecifales (trasarrecife, planicie y talud). Las baldosas fueron recuperadas y examinadas después de 12 meses posteriores a su instalación. La comunidad desarrollada estuvo compuesta por 24 taxa siendo notable la ausencia de corales. No se encontraron diferencias en la riqueza de especies entre las zonas arrecifales, los materiales utilizados y las superficies de las baldosas. Las baldosas fueron dominadas por cirripedios (Balanus trigonus) con una densidad de 26 787.8 (±47 301.0) ind/m² (media±1D.E). La densidad de esta especie fue significativamente más alta en el talud y menor en las superficies superiores. La dominancia de B. trigonus durante el experimento sugiere un posible efecto sinérgico entre sus características reproductivas y su habilidad competitiva por el espacio evitando que otros organismos, como los corales, recluten exitosamente.

Short-term assessment of the sediment deposition rate and water conditions during a rainy season on La Azufrada coral reef, Gorgona Island, Colombia / Evaluación a corto plazo de la tasa de deposición de sedimentos y las condiciones del agua durante una temporada de lluvias en el arrecife coralino La Azufrada, Isla Gorgona, Colombia

One of the major stresses on corals is the settlement of suspended sediment on their surfaces. This leads to the blocking of light, the covering of the coral mucus surface and an increased risk of disease. For this reason sediment deposition on a reef is considered a highly important variable in coral reef studies. With the use of sediment traps and oceanographic sensors, the sediment deposition rate and water conditions during a rainy season (April-May 2009) on a Tropical Eastern Pacific coral reef (La Azufrada) at Gorgona Island in Colombia were investigated. To quantify sediment deposition, sediment traps were established in nine stations along the coral reef (three stations per reef zone: backreef, flat and slope). To minimize disturbance by aquatic organisms in the sediment traps these were filled with hypersaline borax-buffered 10% formaline solution before their deployment; animals found in the filter contents were fixed and stored in a 4% formalin solution, frozen and identified in the laboratory. To determine the water conditions, discrete samples of water from 1 m and 10 m depths were collected using a Niskin bottle. Oceanographic variables (temperature, salinity and dissolved oxygen) as well as turbidity, chlorophyll and nutrient concentration (nitrite, nitrate and phosphorus) were measured in the samples from both depths. Vertical records of temperature and salinity were carried out with a Seabird-19 CTD nearest to La Azufrada and water transparency was measured using a Secchi disk. We found a mean trap collection rate of 23.30±4.34gm-2d-1 and did not detect a significant difference in the trap collection rate among reef zones. The mean temperature and salinity in the coral reef depth zone (0-10m layer) were 26.98±0.19°C and 32.60±0.52, respectively. Fourteen taxonomic groups of invertebrates were detected inside the sediment traps with bivalves and copepods being the most abundant and frequen. The findings presented here constitute the first report of both the potential sediment deposition rates and the water conditions of La Azufrada coral reef. Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (Suppl. 1): 107-116. Epub 2014 February 01.

Uno de los principales factores de estrés en los corales es el asentamiento de sedimento suspendido sobre su superficie. Esto conlleva al bloqueo de la luz, el cubrimiento superficial del mucus coralino e incremento del riesgo de enfermedades. Por esta razón, la sedimentación en considerada como un variable de alta importancia en el estudio de los arrecifes coralinos. Por medio de trampas de sedimentación (en nueve estaciones: seis por zona arrecifal), este proceso fue estudiado en un arrecife coralino (La Azufrada) del Pacífico Oriental Tropical, localizado en Isla Gorgona, Colombia. En las trampas se encontró una tasa promedio de colecta de sedimento de 23.30±4.34gm-2d-1 a y no se detectaron diferencias significativas entre las zonas arrecifales. La temperatura promedio y salinidad de la columna de agua donde habitan corales en este arrecife (entre 0 y 10m) fue 26.98±0.19°C y 32.60±0.52, respectivamente. Catorce grupos taxonómicos de invertebrados fueron encontrados en las trampas de sedimentación. Los bivalvos y copépodos fueron los más abundantes y frecuentes. Los resultados presentados constituyen el primer reporte de la tasa de deposición de sedimentos y de las condiciones del agua en La Azufrada. Estos resultados representan una línea base para estudios posteriores, aunque se necesita más investigación sobre estos temas que son esenciales para el manejo de los arrecifes coralinos.

Space partitioning among damselfishes in the Caribbean coast of Panama: the role of habitat preferences

This study aimed to assess abundance and habitat use by juvenile and adult damselfishes, as much as the benthic cover of different reefs on Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro, Panama. Reefs were selected considering different levels of wave exposure and depths. Damselfish and benthic communities were distinct between reefs. The most abundant species in the sheltered deeper reef was Stegastes planifrons followed by S. leucostictus, and they were also recorded in the sheltered shallower reef. Low densities of S. partitus and S. variabilis were also observed in the sheltered deeper reef, as these species are apparently restricted to higher depths. Additionally, these reefs presented patches with high cover of live and dead massive coral. Shallow depths presented high abundances of S. adustus, indicating a preference of this species for shallow habitats and exhibiting a two-fold increase in abundance at higher wave surge. Also, Microspathodon chrysurus reached higher numbers in shallow depths. Furthermore, the exposed reef presented a high cover (%) of algae groups and the fire-coral Millepora alcicornis, acknowledged as a preferred habitat for M. chrysurus and other reef fish. In this study, distinct habitat uses were observed, with patterns regulated by depth and/or wave exposure levels and/or availability of specific benthic cover. For site-attached species as damselfish, habitat specialization, competition and/or non-random recruitment patterns have been found to rule distributional patterns. Similar results for damselfish relative abundances were found compared to studies conducted within Panama and other reefs throughout the Caribbean region over three decades ago, indicating strong habitat affinity for the most abundant species. However, severe reductions of habitat availability following coral mass-mortality events may have disrupted their distributional patterns.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a abundância e uso do habitat por juvenis e adultos de peixes-donzela, assim como as comunidades bentônicas em distintos recifes de Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro, Panamá. Os recifes foram escolhidos considerando diferentes níveis de exposição a ondas e profundidade. As comunidades de peixes e bentos estudadas se mostraram distintas. A espécie mais abundante em recifes com maior profundidade e abrigados foi Stegastes planifrons, seguida por S. leucostictus, que também foram observadas em recifes rasos abrigados. As baixas abundâncias de S. partitus e S. variabilis também foram observadas no primeiro recife citado e estas espécies foram aparentemente restritas à profundidade maiores. Adicionalmente, estes mesmos recifes apresentaram uma vasta cobertura de corais massivos, vivos ou mortos. Stegastes adustus apresentou sua maior abundância em baixas profundidades, indicando uma preferência por habitats rasos, aumentando em duas vezes com a exposição a ondas. Os recifes rasos também tiveram maior abundância de Microspathodon chrysurus. Além disso, o recife com maior exposição apresentou extenso percentual de cobertura por algas e o coral-de-fogo Millepora alcicornis, reconhecido habitat preferencial de M. chrysurus e outras espécies de peixes. Neste trabalho, diferentes padrões de uso do habitat foram encontrados, sendo regulados pela profundidade e/ou exposição e ainda a disponibilidade de determinada cobertura bentônica. Para espécies fortemente associadas ao substrato, a especialização, a competição e padrões não aleatórios do recrutamento são conhecidos determinantes dos padrões distribucionais. Este estudo apresentou resultados similares a outros conduzidos há 30 anos no Panamá e outros recifes do Caribe, indicando que as espécies mais abundantes mantêm forte afinidade com o habitat. Entretanto, severas reduções na disponibilidade de habitat, seguidas de eventos de mortalidade em massa, podem ter possivelmente afetado seus padrões de distribuição.

Massive bleaching of coral reefs induced by the 2010 ENSO, Puerto Cabello, Venezuela

El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has generated global coral massive bleaching. The aim of this work was to evaluate the massive bleaching of coral reefs in Puerto Cabello, Venezuela derived from ENSO 2010. We evaluated the bleaching of reefs at five localities both at three and five meter depth. The coral cover and densities of colonies were estimated. We recorded living coral cover, number and diameter of bleached and nonbleached colonies of each coral species. The colonies were classified according to the proportion of bleached area. Satellite images (Modis Scar) were analyzed for chlorophyll-a concentration and temperature in August, September, October and November from 2008-2010. Precipitation, wind speed and air temperature information was evaluated in meteorological data for 2009 and 2010. A total of 58.3% of colonies, belonging to 11 hexacoral species, were affected and the greatest responses were observed in Colpophyllia natans, Montastraea annularis and Montastraea faveolata. The most affected localities were closer to the mainland and had a bleached proportion up to 62.73±36.55%, with the highest proportion of affected colonies, whereas the farthest locality showed 20.25±14.00% bleached and the smallest proportion. The salinity in situ varied between 30 and 33ppm and high levels of turbidity were observed. According to the satellite images, in 2010 the surface water temperatura reached 31ºC in August, September and October, and resulted higher than those registered in 2008 and 2009. Regionally, chlorophyll values were higher in 2010 than in 2008 and 2009. The meteorological data indicated that precipitation in November 2010 was three times higher than in November 2009. Massive coral bleaching occurred due to a three month period of high temperatures followed by one month of intense ENSO-associated precipitation. However, this latter factor was likely the trigger because of the bleaching gradient observed. Rev. Biol. Trop. 60 (2): 527-538. Epub 2012 June 01.

El Niño ha generado blanqueamientos masivos en todo el mundo. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el blanqueamiento masivo de los arrecifes coralinos de Puerto Cabello, Venezuela debido al efecto del ENSO, 2010. En cada arrecife se seleccionaron dos profundidades: tres y cinco metros. Para determinar las concentraciones de clorofila-a y la temperatura en los meses de Agosto a Noviembre 2008 al 2010 se analizaron imágenes de satélite (tipo Modis Scar 1km2 de resolución). La precipitación, la velocidad del viento y la temperatura del aire fueron evaluadas según datos metereológicos del 2009 y 2010. La cobertura coralina y la densidad de colonias fue estimada, se anotó la cobertura de coral vivo de cada especie y el número y diámetro de colonias sanas y con blanqueamiento. Cada colonia fue clasificada según su área con blanqueamiento. Un 58.3% del total de las colonias fueron afectadas, estas pertenecen a 11 especies hexacoralinas. Las localidades con mayor afectación fueron las más cercanas al continente, la cuales presentaron una proporción de blanqueamiento de hasta 62.73±36.55% y un mayor porcentaje de colonias afectadas, mientras que la localidad más lejana presentó un 20.25±14.00% y una menor proporción de colonias afectadas, respectivamente. La salinidad registrada in situ varió entre 30 y 33ppm y se observó un alto nivel de turbidez. Según las imágenes de satélite, en el 2010 se observó una temperatura del agua de hasta 31ºC en los meses de agosto, septiembre y octubre. Los valores de clorofila fueron mayores en 2010 que en 2008 y 2009. Los datos meterorológicos indicaron que los valores de precipitación del 2010 triplicaron los del 2009. El blanqueamiento masivo fue la consecuencia de tres meses de altas temperaturas seguido de un mes de intensas precipitaciones asociadas al ENSO. Sin embargo, este último factor probablemente fue el detonante debido al gradiente observado.

Reef fishes captured by recreational spearfishing on reefs of Bahia State, northeast Brazil / Peixes recifais capturados pela pesca submarina recreativa nos recifes do estado da Bahia, nordeste do Brasil

Although recreational spearfishing is a growing activity, its impacts are poorly understood. This paper aims to present data on reef fishes captured by recreational spearfishing in the Bahia State, Northeastern Brazil. We analyzed 168 photos of spearfishing conducted in the reefs of this region between 2006 and 2008. A total of 1.121 fish belonging to 48 species were captured in three sub-regions of the Bahia coastline: Litoral Norte (LN), Salvador (SSA) and Baixo Sul (BS). The main species caught were: Scomberomorus brasiliensis (n = 191), Sphyraena barracuda (n = 153), Lutjanus jocu (n = 150) and Caranx bartholomaei (n = 141); these four species represented 56.5% of total captures. Over the sampling period, the highest values of catch rates per day were observed at BS, followed by SSA and LN. There were significant between-sites differences in the number of fish in the number of species caught. However, there were no significant between-years differences in the number of fish and numbers of species caught. The trophic classification of fish showed that carnivores (n = 623) were more frequently captured, followed by piscivores (n = 371), herbivores (n = 101) and invertivores (n = 26). The results showed that high sized, top predatory fishes, were the main targets, although other trophic levels were also captured.

Apesar da caça submarina recreativa ser uma atividade crescente, seus impactos ainda são mal compreendidos. Este trabalho tem como objetivo apresentar dados sobre peixes recifais capturados pela pesca submarina recreativa no Estado da Bahia, região Nordeste do litoral brasileiro. Foram analisados 168 fotos de caça submarina realizada entre 2006 e 2008. Foram registrados 1.121 peixes pertencentes a 48 espécies em três sub-regiões do litoral baiano: Litoral Norte (LN), Salvador (SSA) e Baixo Sul (BS). As principais espécies capturadas foram: Scomberomorus brasiliensis (n = 191), Sphyraena barracuda (n = 153), Lutjanus jocu (n = 150) e Caranx bartholomaei (n = 141); estas quatro espécies representaram 56,5% do total de peixes capturados. Ao longo dos anos amostrados, foram registradas taxas mais elevadas de captura por dia em BS, seguido pelo SSA e LN. Foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre os locais estudados para a quantidade de peixes e o número de espécies capturadas. Entretanto, não foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre os anos para a quantidade de peixes e número de espécies capturadas. A classificação trófica de peixes mostrou que os carnívoros (n = 623) foram mais frequentemente capturados, seguidos de piscívoros (n = 371), herbívoros (n = 101) e invertívoros (n = 26). Os dados apresentados demonstram que grandes peixes predadores de topo são o alvo principal, no entanto outros níveis tróficos também são capturados.