Mapping the distribution of Acropora cervicornis (Staghorn coral) and Acropora palmata (Elkhorn coral) for a reef monitoring program in Biscayne National Park, Florida
Dickman CH. 2004. Mapping the distribution of Acropora cervicornis (Staghorn coral) and Acropora palmata (Elkhorn coral) for a reef monitoring program in Biscayne National Park, Florida. Report 16271. University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science. Miami, Florida
In the last few decades corals in the genus Acropora have undergone a severe decline in population in the Caribbean. This decline is due to a variety of anthropogenic and natural stressors, and in part due to a lack of knowledge about how to manage coral reefs. In order to fill the knowledge gap about Acropora spp. that exists in Biscayne National Park, a rapid survey assessment was conducted to establish a baseline data set of known colonies of Acropora cervicornis and Acropora palmata within the Park that was representative sampling of the Park. Over the course of two years the protocol for locating acroporids in BNP and establishing a database for density and distribution analysis was refined. Geographic Information Software (ArcGIS) was used to create distribution and density maps for both species. Suggestions for improvement in management tools for the Park that might be incorporated into its General Management Plan, such as Research Natural Areas, mooring balls, and Park signage area based on these maps. This project is a component of a larger project looking at the status and trends of acroporids in the National Park units in South Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This data set can also be used in the current review of status to potentially list both acroporid species on the Endangered Species List. The ultimate goal of the project was to create a data set that can help managers and scientist better understand the management needs of acroporids in Biscayne National Park. Abstract provided by author.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Dickman, Cara
- Date of Issue
- 2004-12
- Publisher
- University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science
- Units
- BISC
- Keywords
- Acropora cervicornis, Biology, Biscayne, Density, Distribution, Elkhorn, Mapping, Monitoring, Palmata, Reef, Staghorn coral