Reef and coral observations on the impact of the grounding of the longliner Jing Shiang Fa at Rose Atoll, American Samoa

Maragos, J

Evaulation conducted during 26-28 March 1994 of the status of coral reefs at eleven sites of physical injury to coral reefs sustained during and after the grounding of the fishing vessel Jin Shiancr Fa at Rose Atoll in October 1993. Surveys involved reef walks at low tide, snorkel surveys over shallow reef flats and terraces, and SCUBA dives along the deeper ocean reef slopes and lagoon reef and floor habitats. Observations were recorded using underwater notepads and high resolution video. All but three of the 11 survey sites were located along the western half of the atoll near the vicinity of the grounding. After the ship ran aground, it eventually broke up causing a spill of diesel fuel,, lubricant oil, and ammonia. Fishing gear, line, wood, clothing, scrap metal and other debris was also scattered over the reefs and lagoon. In early December 1993 a salvage tug attempted to' remove the remains of the ship off the reef flat and upper ocean reef slope at the grounding site on the SW rim of the atoll. However, during the March 1994 visit, it is evident that large chunks of the ship still remained on the reef flat and slopes. The reconnaissance survey revealed 60 species of stony corals belonging to-25 genera. All but 11 species and 9 genera are new records for Rose Atoll. Only 3 species and one genus reported previously were not observed during the March 1993 survey. Overall coral species diversity at Rose Atoll is low compared to other atolls, although the limited March 1994 surveys were insufficient to cover all coral habitats and compile a more thorough list. Coral abundance was also low to moderate. Coral bleaching was widespread in shallow reef and ocean reef slope habitats and recent coral mortality was moderate to high in some habitats.