Coral Reefs
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What?
A coral reef is composed of a myriad of species and it is impossible to name them all here. However, during Reef Check* surveys , researchers will be concentrating on a number of indicator organisms such as: Grunts (a group of fish, belonging to a taxonomic family called the Haemulidae) Other landmark species present:
Humpback, spinner & bottlenose dolphins When? This study will take place Oct. 18th thru Oct. 31st, 2009. Why? This is a pioneering study to map this currently unprotected underwater environment. The reefs boast a rich mixture of beautiful corals and a multitude of fish and other animals. Data on the current biological status of the reefs and of population levels of key indicator species are therefore crucial for educational purposes and to be able to put forward ideas for future marine protection areas. The coral reefs that grow along the margins of this area are still relatively untouched – influences such as industrial-scale fishing, pearl or scallop extraction or large numbers of recreational divers have not wreaked their destructive influence there. The area is therefore a prime target for studying intact reef ecosystems, conserving them for future generations and using them in the education of people locally and all over the world. Where? The subject of study will be the coral reefs fringing the Musandam peninsula of Oman, where mountains meet the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Below the water, coral reef development around the Musandam is one of the best in all of the northwestern Indian Ocean. More than 100 species of hard corals form the framework of a complex coral community lining most of the rocky shores. Most coral communities are very diverse and show little signs of environmental stress. Some communities are dominated by branching hard corals, whereas in others, massive, slow growing colonies from the basis of the community. The reefs are in excellent condition with percentage coral cover reaching the highest levels seen in the world (80-90%) with over 200 species present. *Data collection follows an internationally recognised coral reef monitoring program called Reef Check. This data will be used to make informed management and conservation decisions within the area. |