Overview of the mesophotic coral ecosystems around Sesoko Island, Okinawa, Japan

• Sinniger Frederic

  Sesoko Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus

• Albelda Ritzelle L.

  Faculty of Science, University of the Ryukyus

• Prasetia Rian

  Faculty of Science, University of the Ryukyus

• Rouzé Héloïse

  Sesoko Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus

• Sitorus Erlangga D.

  Faculty of Science, University of the Ryukyus

• Harii Saki

  Sesoko Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus

Abstract

Coral reef ecosystems extend beyond the standard SCUBA diving depth. These ecosystems found between approximately 30 and over 150 m are referred to as mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs). Mesophotic coral communities have already been reported from Okinawa over 50 years ago. However, since then little additional knowledge has been obtained on the distribution and diversity of mesophotic corals in the region. Here, we provide an overview of the coral communities observed at selected sites in the region around Sesoko Island. Using photo-quadrats, we surveyed coral communities and specifically the contribution of the dominant coral genera to the total coral cover between different sites at depths ranging from 30 to 80 m. We found that deep coral communities around Sesoko Island hold a high potential biodiversity and need to be taken into account into coastal management plans.

Journal

• Galaxea, Journal of Coral Reef Studies

  Galaxea, Journal of Coral Reef Studies 24 (1), 69-76, 2022-01-31

  The Japanese Coral Reef Society

Keywords

• MCE
• Photo-quadrats
• Coral cover
• Depth

Details

• CRID: 1390853879733438976
• NII Article ID: 130008149228
• DOI: 10.3755/galaxea.g2021_s11n
• ISSN: 18833969
• ISSN: 18830838
• Web Site: https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/galaxea/24/1/24_G2021_S11N/_pdf
• Text Lang: en
• Data Source:
  • JaLC
  • Crossref
  • CiNii Articles
  • KAKEN
• Abstract License Flag: Disallowed