SNPA partners with GIF and GVI for marine survey |11 August 2014

Staff from Global Vision International (GVI) and the Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA) teamed up to assist the Green Islands Foundation (GIF) during the month of May with a two-week coral reef monitoring survey around two inner islands -- Denis and North.

GVI and SNPA put together a specially designed monitoring protocol to survey fish, coral and invertebrate diversity and abundance as an indication of the reef’s health and biodiversity.

The method involved identifying different coral species and their class size, types of fish and other marine animals such as invertebrates and molluscs.

The team first went to Denis Island, accompanied by GIF general manager, where they undertook the survey. Over the one week period, they completed 15 dives around the island, confronting waves associated with the south east trade wind, which did not create ideal conditions for undertaking the surveys.

The dive team collected data on different fauna and flora as well as habitat composition. After finishing a one-week survey on Denis Island, the team proceeded to North Island for another week of intensive survey using the same protocols.

Regardless of the harsh weather condition, they managed to complete the survey in the time frame given. These data will be used by GIF to assess reef health and identify areas of high biodiversity for future protection and conservation.  

Contributed by Patsy Theresine
Seychelles National Parks Authority