Tracing Coral Reefs: A Citizen Science Approach in Mapping Coral Reefs to Enhance Marine Park Management Strategies

Effective marine park management and protection of its coral reef can only happen if managers have adequate knowledge of its present health status, extent and area. However, obtaining such information is labour intensive and... [ view full abstract ]

Effective marine park management and protection of its coral reef can only happen if managers have adequate knowledge of its present health status, extent and area. However, obtaining such information is labour intensive and difficult with limited funding and time. Reef Check Malaysia was engaged by Department of Marine Park Malaysia in a collaborative effort to map the coral reefs area surrounding Tioman Island Marine Park and document an overview of its health status and site specific threats. To achieve this, we utilize Reef Check survey method, a simple, rapid and holistic standardized reef monitoring procedure based on scientific principles. This method is suitable where funds and time are limited. A total of 95 sites surrounding Tioman Island were surveyed with the assistance of certified Reef Check EcoDiver volunteers and members from local stakeholders. This citizen science approach proved successful and resulted in a baseline map revealing a difference in the health of coral reefs between the west and east side of Tioman Island, where the West had <25% live coral cover as compared to >50% on the East. Combined with the data of indicator fish and invertebrates as well as human and natural impacts, the results suggest that Tioman Island should be separated into three distinctive conservation priorities zones to enhance management strategies of this marine park. This is an example of an innovative way to engage and involve local stakeholders in planning conservation and management strategies, addressing question number 48 for the advancement of marine conservation.