Spatial distribution of coral communities in the northern part of the Great Reef of Toliara, Madagascar
$ 42.5
Description
Coral reefs support millions of people around the world. However, the effects of climate change and the increasing frequency and intensity of disturbances are leading to accelerated degradation and decline of scleractinian coral communities. Current concerns are focused on the resilience of these vulnerable ecosystems. In this context, it appears essential to improve the understanding of the distribution of coral communities in order to help in the conservation and management of reefs. The study was conducted in the northern part of the Great Reef of Toliara from 02 to 04 June 2021. Benthic cover data as well as the spatial distribution of living corals were collected in nine stations, three of which are located at the external slope and six at the reef flat. These data were sampled using nine transects of 500m each.