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Description:
Author(s):
Gouezo, M., Otto, E. I., Olsudong, D., Mereb, G., Jonathan, R.
Title:
Baseline assessment of Medal Ngediull Conservation Area
Publication Date:
2015
Institution:
Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC)
Issue:
PICRC Technical Report 16-02
Page(s):
23
Abstract:
"Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) have been used worldwide to protect biodiversity and increase marine resources yields. In 2003, the Republic of Palau established the Protected Areas Network (PAN) to help improve the management and effectiveness of Palaus MPAs. In 2006, Palau made a commitment to effectively conserve 30% of its near shore habitat through the Micronesia Challenge. Yet, very few data on the baseline status of MPAs that are part of this network have been collected. This present study was conducted to collect baseline ecological data within the different habitats of Medal Ngediull Conservation Area (CA) located in Airai State of Palau, to assess the effectiveness of the MPA over time. Findings demonstrated that one of the habitats of the CA, called reef hole, had a high coral cover and high abundance and biomass of commercially-important fish species. Observations also showed that this habitat hosted juvenile protected species such as Maml (Cheilinus undulatus) and Kemedukl (Bolbometopon muricatum). The reef flat of the CA had low fish abundance and biomass, low seagrass cover but high density of clams. The seagrass beds of the CA may be impacted by sedimentation loads and run-offs caused by the urban development and the river nearby."
Electronic Access:
Notes:
FY2011 CRCP Project ID 20682; Project Title: I096 International Coral Reef Conservation Grant Programs; Principal Investigator: Scot Frew. International grant NA11NOS4820011
Grant Number(s):
NA11NOS4820011
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