Global Vision International,

Seychelles - Mahé Report Series No. 002

ISSN 1751-2255 (Print)

GVI Seychelles – Mahé

Marine Conservation Expedition

Phase Report 002

April – June 2009

 GVI Seychelles – Mahé/Marine Conservation Expedition Report 002

Submitted in whole to
Global Vision International
Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA)

Produced by
Lindsay Sullivan – Science Coordinator

And
Tim Kirkpatrick Country Director Genevieve Gammage Expedition Manager
Ben Herington Expedition staff Rachel Mowll Expedition staff
Hazel Long Expedition staff Colin Watson Expedition staff
Adriano Schonenberger Expedition Member Kyle Breen Expedition Member
Alice Walker Expedition Member Lila Brown Expedition Member
Amy Mickel Expedition Member Thomas Schonenberger Expedition Member
Antonia Stackelberg Expedition Member Niamh Kelly Expedition Member
Christina Leggett Expedition Member Norma Colmenares Expedition Member
Christine Knutsson Expedition Member Orla Fleming Expedition Member
David Fauchier Expedition Member Philip Ollerton Expedition Member
David Sexton Expedition Member Pip Churchyard Expedition Member
Elizabeth Wollen Expedition Member Richard Vollenberg Expedition Member
Emma Spurs Expedition Member Ryan Shelley Expedition Member
Gemma Turner Expedition Member Scott Meyer Expedition Member
Greg Vicary Expedition Member Shanna Nellis Expedition Member
Jeffry Nagy Expedition Member Thomas Shepherd Expedition Member
Jessica Toms Expedition Member Tom Cripps Expedition Member
Kim Locraft Expedition Member Zoe Carwardine Expedition Member

GVI Seychelles - Mahé/Marine Conservation Expedition

Address: GVI c/o SNPA, PO Box 1240, Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles

Email: Seychelles@gvi.co.uk
Web page: http://www.gvi.co.uk and http://www.gviusa.com
Executive Summary
The 20th 10-week phase of the Seychelles Global Vision International (GVI) Expedition on
Mahé has now been completed. This report summarises the science and local capacity
building programmes conducted during the phase, from April 3rd to June 12th 2009.

Underwater visual census (UVC) surveys were conducted to assess the reef at 18 sites
around the North West coast of the island of Mahé, the largest and most populated in the
Seychelles group. Line Intercept Transects (LITs) were used as a measure of benthic
assemblage and belt transects were carried out to assess the diversity of coral and of
certain invertebrates. Some changes were made to the LIT technique used on previous
phases. It is expected that this change will reduce the impact of diver selection and
therefore more accurately represent the benthic assemblage.
Overall the results indicate a decline in coral cover since the last surveys in October –
December 2008. Contributing factors may include the change in methodology techniques
and high water temperatures, however further investigation is required.
Bleaching of coral was observed to have increased at some of the sites monitored,
particularly within the Baie Ternay Marine Park, however as there is currently no
quantitative assessment of bleaching level this could not be viewed objectively. Plans
have been drawn up to include a measure of bleaching in the next phase of coral surveys.
Several sightings of whale sharks were made, with the details of the observations
documented and passed to the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS). Weekly
plankton samples were collected and passed to MCSS to assist in their ongoing whale
shark research. Several Expedition Members took part in a Crown of Thorns starfish
removal program coordinated by MCSS; more than 500 starfish were removed from a reef
on the South of Mahé. In line with a regional drive in sea surface temperature research,
GVI also assisted MCSS in the deployment of data loggers at two depths at two different
sites. Plans have been made to replace the loggers every three months going forward.
While this phase has not coincided with the turtle nesting season, research has continued
into the foraging behaviour and energy budgets of turtles with Baie Ternay Marine Park.
Other projects continued this phase included lessons with the children from the
International School of the Seychelles on a weekly basis, and a lot of work invested in
development of the GVI base on Curieuse, in preparation for its launch as a full expedition.

© Global Vision International – 2009 i

Table of Contents
Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... i
1 Introduction............................................................................................................. 4
2 Reef Survey Programme ........................................................................................ 6
2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................. 6
2.2 Aim .............................................................................................................. 7
2.2.1 Species list ........................................................................................... 7
2.2.2 Training ................................................................................................ 8
2.3 Methodology ................................................................................................ 9
2.3.1 Line Intercept Transects (LITs) ............................................................. 9
2.3.2 Coral Diversity Belt Transects .............................................................. 9
2.3.3 Invertebrate Abundance & Diversity Belt Transects .............................. 9
2.3.4 Layout of transects ............................................................................. 10
2.3.5 Environmental Parameters ................................................................. 10
2.4 Results ....................................................................................................... 11
2.4.1 Surveys completed ............................................................................. 11
2.4.2 Reported coral cover .......................................................................... 11
2.4.3 Coral diversity .................................................................................... 16
2.4.4 Invertebrate abundance and diversity ................................................. 17
2.5 Discussion ................................................................................................. 19
2.5.1 Benthic assemblage as assessed by LITs .......................................... 19
2.5.2 Coral diversity .................................................................................... 22
2.5.3 Invertebrate abundance and diversity ................................................. 23
2.5.4 Coral bleaching .................................................................................. 23
2.5.5 New coral genera ............................................................................... 23
3 Additional Ecosystem Monitoring .......................................................................... 24
3.1 Crown of Thorns ........................................................................................ 24
3.2 Turtles ........................................................................................................ 25
3.2.1 Incidental sightings ............................................................................. 25
3.2.2 Beach patrols for nesting turtles ......................................................... 25
3.2.3 In-water surveys of turtle behaviour .................................................... 26
3.3 Cetacean sightings .................................................................................... 27

© Global Vision International – 2009 ii

 3.4 Whale shark sightings ................................................................................ 27
3.5 Plankton sampling ...................................................................................... 28
3.6 Temperature loggers .................................................................................. 28
4 Non-survey Programmes ...................................................................................... 29
4.1 Community Development ........................................................................... 29
4.1.1 National Scholarship Programme ....................................................... 29
4.1.2 Working with the International School................................................. 29
4.2 Curieuse Island Satellite Camp .................................................................. 30
5 Literature cited ...................................................................................................... 31
6 Appendices........................................................................................................... 32

List of Figures
Figure 2.1 Location and substrate type of GVI survey sites
Figure 2.2 Layout of transects at each survey site, where the shoreline is represented by
the top of the figure and distance from shore indicates increasing depth
Figure 2.3 Mean percentage coral cover ± SE at the carbonate and the granitic sites, for
each survey period from 2005 to 2009
Figure 2.4 Mean percentage cover of algae and of epibenthic organisms at the granitic
reef sites surveyed, for each survey period from 2005 to 2009
Figure 2.5 Mean percentage cover of algae and of epibenthic organisms at the carbonate
reef sites surveyed, for each survey period from 2005 to 2009.
Figure 2.6 Mean percentage cover of live hard coral at the shallow sites and at the deep
sites, for each survey period from 2007 to 2009
Figure 2.7 Mean percentage cover of live hard coral for sites on different reef types and in
different depth zones, for each survey period from 2007 - 2009
Figure 2.8 Mean coral genera richness ± SE for the carbonate and for the granitic sites, for
each survey period from 2005 to 2009
Figure 2.9 Mean density (individuals m-2) of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea
urchins at carbonate reef sites, for every survey period from 2005 to 2009
Figure 2.10 Mean density (individuals m-2) of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea
urchins at granitic reef sites, for every survey period from 2005 to 2009.
Figure 2.11 Density of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea urchins on the carbonate
and on the granitic reefs for the survey period April – June 2009

iii
1 Introduction
The Global Vision International (GVI) Seychelles expedition is based on the island of Mahé
at Cap Ternay Research Centre in the Baie Ternay National Park, which is run by the
Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA). A satellite camp has also been established
on the island of Curieuse, which is just north of Praslin. All of GVI’s scientific work in the
Seychelles is carried out on behalf of our local partners and at their request, using their
methodology; GVI supplies experienced staff, trained volunteers and equipment to conduct
research in support of their ongoing work. GVI’s key partner is the Seychelles Centre for
Marine Research and Technology (SCMRT), the research arm of SNPA. Additional local
partners include the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS) and the Seychelles
Fishing Authority (SFA).

Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA): A local parastatal organisation partly

funded by the government, encompassing the Seychelles Centre for Marine Research
and Technology (SCMRT) and the Marine Parks Authority (MPA). These organisations
have the respective aims of carrying out marine research in the Seychelles and protecting
the marine parks. The coral and fish monitoring carried out for SCMRT constitutes the
majority of the work conducted by the Expedition Members. Expedition Members also
work alongside MPA rangers on the satellite camp located on Curieuse.

Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS): A local NGO that carries out
environmental research in the Seychelles, currently monitoring whale sharks, cetaceans
and turtles around Mahé. GVI assists with all three of these research programmes by
reporting incidental sightings of cetaceans and whale sharks, documenting the presence
or absence of turtles on every dive throughout the phase, conducting in-water turtle
surveys, nesting turtle surveys and undertaking weekly plankton monitoring tows.

Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA): The governing body which oversees the
management and regulation of commercial and artisanal fisheries in the Seychelles. This
government agency is directly concerned with setting the catch, bag and seasonal limits
that apply to local stocks on an annual basis, as well as managing the international export
industry that is generated from the harvest of fisheries across the Seychelles Exclusive
Economic Zone (EEZ).

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 4

In 1998, a worldwide coral bleaching event decimated much of the coral surrounding the
inner granitic islands of the Seychelles, with hard coral mortality reaching 95% in some
areas (Spencer et al. 2000). It is thought that this was caused by the high ocean
temperatures associated with an El Nino Southern Oscillation event at that time. Efforts to
monitor the regeneration of reefs in the Seychelles were initiated as part of the Shoals of
Capricorn, a three year programme started in 1998 and funded by the Royal Geographic
Society in conjunction with the Royal Society. SCMRT was set up by the Shoals of
Capricorn in an effort to ensure continuation of the work started, as well as to assist the
Marine Parks Authority (MPA) with the management of the existing marine parks. The
predominant objective for the Seychelles GVI expedition is to aid this monitoring
programme and thereby assist in the construction of management plans that will benefit
the future recovery of coral reefs in the area.

Between the end of the Shoals of Capricorn programme in 2001, and the beginning of the
GVI expedition in 2004, monitoring efforts were continued by Reefcare International, a
non-governmental organisation based in Australia. The protocols established by Reefcare
International provided a foundation for those adopted by GVI, differing only in the more
thorough taxonomic criteria adopted by the latter, and logistical constraints that restrict
GVI’s monitoring efforts to the North West coast of Mahé.

The data collection conducted by GVI Expedition Members contributes to a long-term

monitoring programme that has now been in progress for ten years. By providing this
support to SCMRT, it is hoped that their capacity to monitor, manage and ultimately
conserve the reefs of the Seychelles during this fragile period of regeneration will be
greatly enhanced.

The project runs in ten week cycles, four per year; each is known as a ‘phase’.

Health and Safety: The safety of all Expedition Members is paramount. All Expedition
Members are given a health and safety brief on the camp as soon as they arrive and
conservative diving guidelines are adhered to for the duration of the expedition. In
addition, Expedition Members complete the PADI Emergency First Response first aid
course, and are taught how to administer oxygen in the event of a diving related incident.

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 5

2 Reef Survey Programme

2.1 Introduction
GVI surveys a maximum of 24 sites around North West Mahé in the course of a year (Fig.
2.1). There are 16 sites which are visited every phase, a further four which are included
twice a year, and four additional sites which can be surveyed whenever time permits (see
Appendix A for site details). The sites are evenly divided between carbonate and granitic
reefs and they describe varying degrees of exposure to waves and current.

Figure 2.1 Location and substrate type of GVI survey sites

Each survey site is divided into ‘shallow’ and ‘deep’ zones, where the shallow zone is
defined by the depth range 1.5 – 5.0 m and the deep zone is defined by the depth range
5.1 – 15.0 m. Each site has a central point, marked by a distinctive landmark on the

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 6

coastline, and is further divided into left, centre and right areas. These areas are loosely
defined as such by their position with respect to the centre marker of the site.
All depths are standardised with respect to chart datum.

2.2 Aim
Until April 2009, coral surveying was conducted on every phase, and fish included on
alternate phases. Following discussions with SCMRT on their data requirements, phases
now alternate between surveying coral only and surveying fish only. A selection of other
invertebrates is included on each phase type.

The focus of phase 20 was on surveying coral. The aims for the phase were to assess the
benthic assemblage, the coral diversity, and the abundance and diversity of invertebrates
at the 18 sites selected for the phase. These sites include the 16 ‘bi-annual’ sites,
surveyed every phase and thus are surveyed twice a year for coral, plus two ‘annual’ sites,
18. L’ilot North Face and 12A. Willie’s Bay Reef (see Appendix A) (Fig. 2.1).

2.2.1 Species list

2.2.1.1 Coral
The list of corals surveyed now covers 49 genera, following the addition of Coscinaraea,
Siderastreidae and Halomitra, Fungiidae. See Appendix B for a full list. Corals are
specific to genus only; Expedition Members are not required to identify coral accurately to
species. This is because in situ identification beyond genus level is not possible in the
case of some corals, and is beyond the requirements of the project aims. Expedition
Members are also encouraged to record the genus as ‘unknown’ if they are not able to
confidently identify a coral beyond the family level, and similarly to record ‘unknown hard
coral’ where even the family is not determinable with a level of confidence.

2.2.1.2 Invertebrates
Not all Expedition Members are required to study other invertebrates. It is faster to learn
to identify and survey other invertebrates than coral and some Expedition Members prefer
to spend less time learning so as to maximise the number of surveys they complete during
their time here. Expedition Members who joined the expedition at the 5 week mark were
given the choice of learning either coral or other invertebrates.
The list of other invertebrates surveyed this phase can be found in Appendix C.

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 7

2.2.2 Training
Dive training: All Expedition Members must be at least PADI Open Water qualified to join
the expedition. Expedition Members then receive the PADI Advanced Open Water course
covering Boat, Peak Performance Buoyancy, Navigation, Underwater Naturalist, and Deep
dives.

Species identification: Expedition Members are assigned to either corals or fish and
may also be required to learn a selection of other reef-dwelling invertebrates. Training is
initially provided in the form of presentations, workshops and informal discussion with the
expedition staff. Self study materials are also available. Knowledge is tested using
pictures on land, for which a 95% pass mark is required. Expedition Members are taken
on identification dives with staff members for in-water testing; their responses are recorded
and the dives continue until the Expedition Member has demonstrated accurate
identification of all necessary species/genera.

Survey Methodology: Expedition Members receive in-water training in the skills required
to conduct reef surveys, with all participants completing the PADI Coral Reef Research
Diver (CRRD) course. All are trained in the use of a delayed surface marker buoy and
tape reels, plus any other survey equipment specific to the research they will be
conducting. Before completing any UVCs independently, Expedition Members participate
in practice UVCs in which they are taught and supervised by a member of staff. The
CRRD course also includes a series of lectures on various aspects of the marine
environment.

Several improvements have been made to the quality of the species identification training
materials this phase. New photographs of corals were sourced from the internet to replace
existing ones of poor quality. The new pictures were used to produce new sets of
electronic flashcards, to enhance the self-study materials available, and to develop the
exams by the same means. The library of coral pictures now only includes those which
present the coral as it looks underwater, making the coral-learning process more
straightforward.

Coral skeletons were also incorporated into the on-land training. This helped the
Expedition Members to see parts of the coral anatomy, such as the columella and paliform

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 8

lobes, which are discussed in lectures and used to distinguish between coral genera, but
which are not easily seen in photographs of corals projected onto the wall. It also enabled
Expedition Members to visualise the scale of coral genera which can be difficult to
appreciate from a photograph.

2.3 Methodology

2.3.1 Line Intercept Transects (LITs)

The Line Intercept Transect (LIT) is a cost-effective method for assessing reef composition
(Leujak & Ormond 2007). At each site, six LITs were carried out, each 10 m long running
along a single depth contour parallel to shore, using polyprophelene tape measures on
reels. Three LITs were done in each of the shallow and deep zones, evenly spread
amongst the left, centre and right of the site (Fig. 2.2). Transects were laid haphazardly
where possible. The topography in some of the granitic sites creates limited possible
places where 10 m of tape can be laid out inside the 1.5 – 5.0 m zone and meant that
shallow transects must be laid wherever the diver can achieve it and thus diver selection
must drive the process. Divers record a start and end depth for each transect. The
benthic assemblage is recorded in a continuous series of data of what is directly under the
tape, with start and end points for each entry, to the nearest cm. Where coral is found the
life form best describing the majority of the colony is also recorded.

2.3.2 Coral Diversity Belt Transects

The coral diversity belt transect is conducted along a 50 m tape with divers searching for
coral genera in a 5 m wide swath, each diver in a buddy pair searching the area up to 2.5
m away from the tape on one side. Each diver records the presence of all coral genera
seen in their search area. The transects both started in the shallow centre, with one
heading out to the deep left (belt B) and the other to the deep right (belt A), thus both the
depth and spread of each site is sampled.

2.3.3 Invertebrate Abundance & Diversity Belt Transects

The diver conducting the invertebrate belt transects dived as a buddy to the LIT diver and
transects were conducted along the same tape as the LITs, thus six invertebrate belts
were completed at each site (Fig. 2.2). Invertebrate divers searched the area extending to
1 m either side of the tape, thus the belt transects were 10 * 2 m.

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 9

2.3.4 Layout of transects

Shore

Increasing
depth

LIT
Invertebrate belt
Coral diversity belt

Figure 2.2 Layout of transects at each survey site,

site, where the shoreline is represented by the
top of the figure and distance from shore indicates increasing depth

2.3.5 Environmental Parameters

During each survey dive the boat captain records certain abiotic factors pertaining to the
environmental conditions during the dive.
• Turbidity is recorded using a Secchi disk
• Cloud cover is estimated in eighths
• Sea state is evaluated using the Beaufort scale,
scale, a copy of which is kept on the boat
• Surface and bottom sea temperatures are recorded using personal dive computers

© Global
obal Vision International – 2009 Page 10
2.4 Results

2.4.1 Surveys completed

All transects were completed at each of the 18 target sites. No additional sites were
completed.

2.4.2 Reported coral cover

2.4.2.1 Substrate type comparison

Mean percentage coral cover reduced from October – December 2008 to the present
study period, at both the granitic and the carbonate sites (Fig. 2.3). The granitic sites
displayed the sharpest decline, dropping from 31.6% ±1.9 to 22.8% ± 1.8; this represents
a drop of 28%. The coral cover at the carbonate sites declined less steeply, from 21.6% ±
2.0 in October – December 2008 to 19.4% ± 2.1 in April – June 2009; a 10% reduction.

40
Carbonate

35 Granitic

30
Mean Percentage Cover (±SE)

25

20

15

10

0
Engelhardt APR-MAY NOV-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN
2004 05 05 06 06 07 07 08 08 09

Figure 2.3 Mean percentage coral cover ± SE at the carbonate and the granitic sites, for each
survey period from 2005 to 2009

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 11

At the granitic sites, cover of macro algae increased slightly from 0.5% to 1.1% from
October – December 2008 to April – June 2009 (Fig. 2.4). Soft coral cover also increased
from 0.2% to 0.9% over the same period. The cover of coralline algae has been
decreasing at a steady rate from October – December 2007 to the present study period,
while the percentage cover of sponges and of corallimorphs and zoanthids combined
remained constant over this last 6 month period.
Since surveys began in 2005, the granitic sites have shown an overall increasing trend,
with slight reductions in mean percentage live hard coral cover in the April – June survey
periods of each year. Soft coral cover at granitic sites is consistently lower than that at
carbonate sites (Fig, 2.4, Fig. 2.5.)

35
Soft coral

Sponge
30
Corallimorphs/Zoanthids

Coralline algae
Mean Percentage Cover

Macro algae
25
Live coral

20

15

10

0
APR-MAY NOV-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN
05 05 06 06 07 07 08 08 09

Figure 2.4 Mean percentage cover of algae and of epibenthic organisms at the granitic
reef sites surveyed, for each survey period from 2005 to 2009

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 12

At the carbonate sites, cover of both coralline algae and of macro algae has increased
from October – December 2008 to the last survey period (Fig. 2.5). Coralline algae was
found to cover 2.2% of the transects conducted in October – December 2008, and 3.1% of
the transects conducted in April – June 2009. Similarly, percentage cover of macro algae
species increased from 0.1% to 0.5% over the same period. Both types of algae have
shown steady levels over the longer term. Percentage cover of soft corals and of sponges
shows a slightly decreasing trend over the last 12 month period. The combined
percentage cover of corallimorphs and zoanthids has displayed varying levels for the last
24 month period.

30
Soft coral

Sponge

25 Corallimorphs/Zoanthids

Coralline algae

Macro algae
Mean Percentage Cover

20 Live coral

15

10

0
APR-MAY NOV-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN
05 05 06 06 07 07 08 08 09

Figure 2.5 Mean percentage cover of algae and of epibenthic organisms at the carbonate reef
sites surveyed, for each survey period from 2005 to 2009.

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 13

2.4.2.2 Depth comparison
Results from transects completed within the shallow zone and the deep zone report that
mean percentage cover of live hard corals has declined at both depths from the October –
December 2008 survey period to April – June 2009 (Fig. 2.6). The shallow sites reported
a sharper decline, from 30.5% in October – December 2008 to 21.7% in April – June 2009,
than the deep sites which reduced from 26.8% to 20.5% over the same period. These
results bring the reported coral cover levels of shallow and deep reefs closer together, a
difference of 1.2%, or 0.12m, in April – June 2009, reduced from 3.7%, or 0.37 m, in
October – December 2008.
Since surveys distinguishing deep zones from shallow zones began in 2007 both have
displayed a drop or a slow in increase rate of mean percentage coral cover in the April –
June survey periods, more pronounced in the deep transects.

35
Deep

Shallow
30

25
Mean Percentage Cover

20

15

10

0
APR-JUN 07 OCT-DEC 07 APR-JUN 08 OCT-DEC 08 APR-JUN 09

Figure 2.6 Mean percentage cover of live hard coral at the shallow sites and at the deep
sites, for each survey period from 2007 to 2009

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 14

Since 2007 the deep granitic sites have been the most varied in terms of mean percentage
coral cover, displaying the most pronounced decline during the April – June survey periods
(Fig. 2.7). All four combinations of reef type and depth zone have shown a reduction in
coral cover over the most recent survey period, since October – December 2008, the deep
granitic sites showing the greatest reduction and the deep carbonate sites showing the
smallest reduction. Deep carbonate sites have shown the smoothest overall trend.
Shallow granitic sites showed a large increase from April – June 2007 to October –
December 2007, followed by very little variation to October – December 2008.

40

35

30
Mean Percentage Cover

25

20

15

10 Deep carbonate

Shallow carbonate

5 Deep Granitic

Shallow granitic

0
APR-JUN 07 OCT-DEC 07 APR-JUN 08 OCT-DEC 08 APR-JUN 09

Figure 2.7 Mean percentage cover of live hard coral for sites on different reef types and in
different depth zones, for each survey period from 2007 - 2009

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 15

2.4.3 Coral diversity
Coral diversity declined from October – December 2008 to April – June 2009 at both the
carbonate and the granitic sites (Fig. 2.8). Carbonate sites displayed a decrease from
30.9 in October – December 2008 to 29.9 genera per site while granitic sites showed a
similar reduction, from 30.3 to 29.2 genera per site in April – June 2009. Viewing a longer
period, the granitic sites displayed a steady increase in coral genera richness from the first
surveys in April – May 2005 until October – December 2006, after which there was a drop
in April – June 2007, followed again by a period of steady increasing, until the most recent
survey period in April – June 2009. The carbonate sites similarly increased in coral genera
richness from the first surveys in April – May 2005 but continued to increase until April –
June 2007, after which there was a slight decrease, followed by a steady increase until the
recent surveys.

Carbonate
Mean Genera Richess (±SE)

32 Granitic

30

28

26

24

22

20
APR-MAY OCT-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN OCT-DEC APR-JUN
05 05 06 06 07 07 08 08 09

Figure 2.8 Mean coral genera richness ± SE for the carbonate and for the granitic sites, for
each survey period from 2005 to 2009

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 16

2.4.4 Invertebrate abundance and diversity
Densities of Arthropods have been increasing overall since 2005 when surveys began,
with an acceleration in increase rate at both the carbonate and the granitic sites over the
last year (Fig. 2.9, Fig. 2.10). Long and short spined sea urchins have fluctuated around
the 0.6 individuals per metre mark throughout the four year survey history, at carbonate
and at granitic sites, displaying an increasing trend since April – June 2007 at carbonate
sites and a decreasing trend at granitic sites over the same period. Mollusc species
surveyed have shown steady densities over time at the carbonate sites and more highly
fluctuating densities at the granitic sites.
In the last survey period, April – June 2009, there were more than twice as many target
molluscs recorded on surveys at granitic reefs than carbonate (Fig, 2.11). Arthropods
were also found in greater abundance at granitic sites, while Annelids, Echinoderms in
general, as well as long and short spined sea urchins in particular, were recorded in higher
densities at carbonate sites than those of granitic reefs.

1,4

1,2
Invertebrate Density (individials/m2)

1,0

Annelida
0,8
Platyhelminthes
Arthropoda
0,6
Mollusca
Echinodermata
0,4
Black Spined Sea Urchins

0,2

0,0
Apr-Jun Oct-Dec Apr-Jun Oct-Dec Apr-Jun Oct-Dec Apr-Jun Oct-Dec Apr-Jun
05 05 06 06 07 07 08 08 09

-2
Figure 2.9 Mean density (individuals m ) of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea
urchins at carbonate reef sites, for every survey period from 2005 to 2009

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 17

 1,2
Invertebrate Density (individials/m2)

1,0

0,8
Annelida
Platyhelminthes
0,6
Arthropoda
Mollusca
0,4
Echinodermata
Black Spined Sea Urchins
0,2

0,0
Apr-Jun Oct-Dec Apr-Jun Oct-Dec Apr-Jun Oct-Dec Apr-Jun Oct-Dec Apr-Jun
05 05 06 06 07 07 08 08 09

-2
Figure 2.10 Mean density (individuals m ) of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea
urchins at granitic reef sites, for every survey period from 2005 to 2009.

1,4

1,2 Carbonate
Density (individuals m-2)

Granitic
1,0

0,8

0,6

0,4

0,2

0,0

Figure 2.11 Density of invertebrate phyla and of black spined sea urchins on the carbonate
and on the granitic reefs for the survey period April – June 2009

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 18

2.5 Discussion

2.5.1 Benthic assemblage as assessed by LITs

2.5.1.1 Changes to LIT technique

The technique used to perform LITs was reviewed this phase and some changes
introduced. While it is preferable to keep methodologies as consistent as possible to
restrict sources of variance, where the method is introducing bias it is necessary to adapt it.
The changes are detailed below.

2.5.1.1.1 Resolution of coral identification

To date, coral encountered on a LIT was divided into three categories: Acropora sp.,
Pocillopora sp. and other hard corals, and recorded as such, along with the appropriate life
form. While this is in line with the methods used by previous studies in the region
(Engelhardt 2004, Payet et al. 2005) and described by English et al. (1997) it was
commonly reported by volunteers that they found it frustrating to spend time learning to
identify coral to genus level and then not to use this knowledge. It is also considered
preferable, where possible, to record data on a transect to the highest possible resolution
and to ‘clump’ data together for analysis if required (Shank, pers. comm.). Many reef
monitoring programmes may not have the expertise and/or the necessary training time
required to identify coral to genus level, however we do and thus it was decided to apply
this knowledge when conducting LITs.

2.5.1.1.2 Continuous record of substrate type

LIT surveys completed to date have not recorded substrate type, with the exception of
bare substrates and dead coral. Substrates such as sand and silt are not ‘available
substrate’ for coral to colonise; correcting data for substrate type will enable assessment of
coral cover relative to the optimum state of the reef given suitable substrate availability.
Both the cover and the substrate are now recorded at every point on the transect.

2.5.1.1.3 Straightness of transect tape

The reefs around North West Mahé are fringing reefs, thus are very close to shore and in
certain weather conditions they are subject to considerable surge. The accuracy of LITs is
reduced by movement of the tape and keeping a measuring tape still in surge is extremely
difficult without securing it to the substrate. This had previously been achieved by

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 19

diverting the transect line in order to wrap the tape around coral encountered along the
transect. Discussions were held with SCMRT before the start of phase 20 and it was
decided not to continue to wrap tapes around coral; not only could this damage coral
colonies but it introduces diver selection into the method and may report inflated levels of
coral cover. It was also agreed that the tape should be as taut as possible; one weakness
of line transect methods is that they over-estimate coral cover by following the contours of
individual colonies which then generates measures of coral circumferential area a instead
of planar area (Leujak & Ormond 2007), thus by keeping the tape tight it is hoped to
reduce this effect as much as possible. Various strategies for securing the tape to the reef
in a taut, straight line were discussed. On transects in the deep zone (> 5 m) the tape is
not affected by surge to the same extent and a 10 m tape laid straight is able to be kept
taut by a 2 lb lead weight block at either end. For transects laid in the shallow zone (< 5 m)
the 2 lb weight blocks are not sufficiently heavy to hold the tape in place and the surge
often rips the tape out from beneath the weight. In these circumstances the most
reasonable and successful method involved divers taking additional 4 lb lead weight
blocks on survey dives and using it to hold down the tape immediately ahead of the
section they are studying. This seemed to work sufficiently enough to enable transects to
be carried out; on all LITs the divers were required to record the level of surge on a scale
of 0 – 5. While subjective, this information may help to assess, in the case of any unusual
data, whether that diver conducted the survey under levels of surge sufficiently high
enough to influence their results.

2.5.1.2 Reported coral cover

The decline of coral cover since the last survey period was not accompanied by an
equivalent increase in either macro or coralline algae types. Although cover of these algae
has increased at the carbonate sites, and macro algal cover has increased at the granitic
sites, this is not yet at a level which would indicate that the coral cover is being replaced by
algal cover. This then suggests that cover of live hard corals is not decreasing because it
is being out-competed by algae; under these circumstances it would be expected that algal
cover would increase at the same rate as coral cover decreases. If the decline in the
reported percentage cover of hard corals represents a true decline in live coral on the reef
then we may see an increasing trend of algal cover as it grows on the substrate made
available by coral. This can be studied after the next surveys are done in April – June
2010.

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For the first time, the transects included a continuous record of substrate type, for 100% of
each transect, as discussed in § 2.5.1.1.2. The reported reduction in live coral cover could
be caused by more transects being laid upon substrate on which coral is less able to grow,
such as sand areas. Although we cannot compare the substrate types with those of
previous phases, when considered as a percentage only of available suitable substrate, i.e.
rock, the coral cover of the last survey period is still a reduction on that reported in the
survey period October – December 2008 (add number to graph and ref it).

The granitic sites in particular have demonstrated a reduction in coral cover each April –
June survey period. This is also when the sea surface temperatures reach an annual peak
of 29 – 31° C (Seychelles Fishing Authority 1995); in April – June 2007 temperatures
recorded on many survey dives exceeded 30° C on the surface, reaching 32° C at Whale
Rock on 12 May. Coral is sensitive to increases in temperatures and excessively high
temperatures over an extended period may lead to coral bleaching. After a few days,
bleached coral will become overgrown by algae; therefore increases in bleaching could
lead to increased cover of dead coral with algae. Temperature increases are usually more
pronounced in the shallower zones, however it has been the deep transects which have
reported the greater drops in mean percentage coral cover increase rates in the April –
June survey periods. Future research combining a quantified measure of bleaching levels,
water temperatures and coral cover could isolate the impact that temperature has upon
benthic assemblage.

In addition, it is possible that the changes to the LIT survey techniques introduced this
phase and discussed in § 2.5.1.1.3 may have exaggerated the decline seen this survey
period. Laying the tape straight and taut and not using epibenthic communities as anchors
to secure the tape to the substrate is expected to reduce the reported cover of live hard
coral. Shallow sites, particularly those on granitic reefs because of their exposed location,
such as the points of bays, and their proximity to shore, frequently are those which
experience the highest levels of surge. Under the previous technique these are the
transects where divers found it the most necessary to divert the tape to anchor it around
corals, therefore it would be thought that they may also be the locations where the change
to running the tape straight may show the greatest influence on results. However all the
transects conducted at the granitic sites, plus those from the shallow areas of carbonate
reefs all showed similar declines in reported coral cover. The deep carbonate reefs

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 21

reported the least decline, which weakly supports this theory. In order to resolve the effect
that the change in LIT methodology has had, it is recommended that transects be
conducted using the two different techniques in the same location to estimate the factor by
which coral cover is influenced.

Engelhardt (2004) attributes the elevated coral cover at granitic sites compared to
carbonate sites to the effect of water quality linked to position. Granitic sites are at more
exposed points with high water flow whereas many carbonate sites are within sheltered
bays receiving less water flow and more nutrients and sediments through run off from land.
The sites with the highest overall levels of coral cover were Port Launay West Rocks
(37%), a granitic site, and Baie Ternay Centre (34%), a carbonate site within the protected
area of the Baie Ternay National Marine Park.

2.5.2 Coral diversity

Extensive surveys conducted across the inner Seychelles islands in 2004 recorded 48
genera of coral from 14 different families (Engelhardt 2004). Our survey list now stands at
49 genera.
The average genera diversity found by our surveys was 29.6; the highest found was in
Baie Ternay Centre where 37 genera were recorded. Engelhardt (2004) found 34 genera
at this site as part of the SEYMEMP studies conducted from 2001 – 2004, a positive sign
that coral diversity remains high at this protected site.
Some coral genera were not found at any of the sites surveyed this phase. Seriatopora,
Diaseris, Coeloseris, Siderastrea, Pectinia, Oulophyllia, and Alveopora did not occur on
any of the coral diversity belt transects and have not been seen on any dive since the any
of the current staff team began diving here, that is for at least two years prior to 2009. This
year, Alveopora and Oulophyllia, however, have both been by staff members during non-
survey dives in Baie Ternay and at Conception North Point, respectively. Therefore, while
the transects have reported a decline in coral diversity, to experienced staff members it
seems as if diversity is increasing with corals considered to be rare in the area making
appearances. We look forward to these corals increasing in abundance and appearing on
coral diversity belt transects in the future.

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2.5.3 Invertebrate abundance and diversity
Invertebrates are surveyed as part of the reef monitoring program because changes in
their densities may be important indicators of changes on the reef. Filter feeding
invertebrates are indicators of changes in water quality, coral predators are useful to study
alongside coral cover and coral diversity, and algal grazers are key indicators of reef
health in terms of the relative levels of coral cover and algal cover.
Most of the target invertebrate species are demonstrating normal fluctuations in density
levels. The Arthropods surveyed are shrimps, mantis shrimps and crabs. If growth
continues at the current rate, further investigation into the driving species is recommended.
Long and short spined sea urchin densities in particular should also be closely monitored;
these algal grazers can cause inadvertent harm to new coral colonies, impeding
recruitment rates, and in high densities they may indicate an algal dominated environment.

2.5.4 Coral bleaching

Bleaching levels, particularly within Baie Ternay and most noticeably at depths of 7 m and
shallower, were observed to have increased during the survey period. As bleaching is not
something currently included on any transects no time series data exists for it and
quantitative assessment has not been possible. Staff members have been diving in Baie
Ternay many times a week for the past several months and are confident that a greater
number of coral colonies were displaying some sign of bleaching, particularly Pocillopora,
Goniopora, Acropora and Pavona species, than in previous phases. In order to be able to
quantitatively assess bleaching levels and to consider in conjunction with water
temperatures and as a factor contributing to levels of coral cover as discussed in §2.5.1.2,
surveys of bleaching will be incorporated into the methodologies utilised on future coral
surveying phases, beginning in October – December 2009.

2.5.5 New coral genera

This phase there have been multiple sightings by staff members of Polyphyllia (Fungiidae);
a coral genus which has not previously been recorded on surveys conducted in the area.
Polyphyllia is sufficiently distinctive for staff members to be confident of positive
identification and Polyphyllia talpina is common in the Western Indian Ocean (Veron 2000).
As such, with confirmed permission from SCMRT, Polyphyllia will be added to the list of
coral genera taught to Expedition Members and surveyed on the next coral phase in
October – December 2009.

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3 Additional Ecosystem Monitoring

3.1 Crown of Thorns

Outbreaks of the coral predator, the Crown of Thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci), were
first reported in 1996 and were active until 1998, when the reefs suffered from the
bleaching-induced coral mortality (Engelhardt 2004). Normal density levels are less than
one individual per hectare (Pratchett 2007) and in these numbers A. planci can assist coral
diversity by feeding on the faster growing corals such as Acropora and Pocillopora, which
are its preferred prey items (Pratchett 2007) and early colonisers of degraded reefs that
can out-compete slower growing corals (Veron 2000). In high numbers however the level
of competition for food drives the starfish to eat all species of corals and reefs can become
severely degraded with coral cover reduced to as little as 1% (CRC Reef 2001). The
causes of outbreaks are still not completely understood; it may be connected to overfishing
of A. planci predators, such as the giant triton shell which is popular with shell collectors,
or to natural fluctuations (CRC Reef 2001). The most influential factor could be increased
nutrient levels in the oceans (Engelhardt pers. comm.), from agricultural, domestic or
industrial sources. A. planci are surveyed as part of the invertebrate abundance and
diversity belts and incidental sightings are also documented after every dive.

Numbers of A. planci seen over the phase were low; none were reported on the
invertebrate belt transects and there were only 5 incidental sightings in total. Although few
A. planci were seen at the sites surveyed by GVI in the last phase, outbreaks were
reported on other reefs around Mahé. In response, the Underwater Centre, a dive centre
based in the tourist area of Beau Vallon and owned by the chairman of MCSS, Dr David
Rowat, began an A. planci removal programme. Expedition Members assisted with these
dives on three occasions, removing over 500 starfish from a reef suffering from an
outbreak at Anse la Mouche in the south of the Mahé. Starfish were speared with a stick
and physically removed from the water; tube feet were sampled from every 5th individual
and sent to Hawai’i for genetic analysis on the sources and spread of the species.

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3.2 Turtles
Five species of marine turtles are found in the Seychelles: the leatherback (Dermochelys
coriacea), loggerhead (Caretta caretta), olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), hawksbill
(Eretmochelys imbricata), and green (Chelonia mydas) (IUCN 1996). The leatherback,
loggerhead and olive ridley, although common in the Western Indian Ocean, are not
thought to currently nest in the Seychelles and are rarely seen. In contrast, the hawksbill
and green are resident in coastal waters of the Seychelles, nest on the beaches, and are
commonly observed. All five species found in the Seychelles face the combined threats of
poaching, pollution and loss of nesting sites, and are listed by IUCN as endangered or
critically endangered. The Seychelles is considered one of the most important sites for the
critically endangered hawksbill turtle and is one of the only localities in the world where
they can be observed nesting during daylight hours.

GVI staff and Expedition Members are trained in turtle identification through lectures and
PowerPoint presentations in which they learn to ID both from seeing the turtle and also
from the tracks. All are also trained in the necessary survey techniques, thus allowing
them to participate in both the water based and land based surveys.

3.2.1 Incidental sightings

For every dive undertaken by GVI, a record of turtle observations is kept. The parameters
for each of GVI’s dives are logged, regardless of whether a turtle was seen, enabling the
calculation of turtle frequency per dive and thus effort-related abundance. The species,
sex, size and behaviour of all turtles sighted is recorded wherever possible.

Out of the 103 dives completed this phase (this discounts dives that were specifically
looking for turtles as part of the focal behavioural study), 11 turtles were seen during dives;
6 hawksbill, 5 green. From January – March 2009 18 turtles were seen over 132 dives.

3.2.2 Beach patrols for nesting turtles

Beach patrols are conducted on North West Mahé during the hawksbill turtle nesting
season from October to March. This land-based turtle monitoring work includes beach
walks, documentation of nesting tracks, and investigation of newly hatched clutches.
Beach patrols are carried out weekly at beaches local to the Cap Ternay research station
(Anse Du Riz and Anse Major) to monitor nesting turtle activity. The surveys are

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 25

conducted on foot, with the teams walking along the upper beach searching for signs of
tracks or body pits, on the main beach, and also within the coastal vegetation.

3.2.3 In-water surveys of turtle behaviour

GVI’s previous turtle census methodology incorporated U-shaped transects and point
counts as a means to gauge seasonal fluctuations in the resident population of sea turtles
within Baie Ternay, however preliminary results from research conducted by von Brandis
in the Amirantes established that philopatric behaviour is common among foraging
hawksbill turtles, and extensive information on individuals and their energy budgets can be
gathered using relatively non-invasive sampling protocols (von Brandis pers. comm.).
Focal behavioural studies work on the philosophy that an individual, when followed and
observed correctly, can provide a wealth of ecological information that would otherwise be
unnoticed in a simple point count survey. Our objective is to document important
interactions between hawksbill turtles and their environment while obtaining information of
prey preference and the number of individuals displaying philopatric behaviour within the
Baie Ternay Marine Reserve. Expedition members use SCUBA equipment to undertake a
U-shaped search pattern. Divers look for focal animals and, upon finding an individual,
follow and document all behaviours observed. Environmental conditions can dictate at
what distance accurate observations are made without altering normal behaviour but in
general a distance of no closer than 5 m is sufficient. A continuous time scale of data is
used; divers stay with any individual encountered for as long as possible even if another
individual is located. In the event that another turtle is found, the second member of the
buddy pair may start to document behaviour but at no time are buddy pairs to become
separated by more than 2 m. Any characteristic markings should be documented and the
use of underwater photography is highly desirable for turtle identification and determining
unknown prey items.

During turtle focal behaviour dives there were nine turtles studied. Five were positively
identified as hawksbill and four as green. Swimming and resting on the bottom were most
commonly observed hawksbill activities; none were seen eating. Due to logistical
constraints, it is only possible for the study in Baie Ternay to be carried out on a weekly
basis, incorporating two 45 minute dives with most Expedition Members participating in
one dive; however it is an interesting addition to the routine for Expedition Members,
enhancing their skill set and appreciation for marine ecological fieldwork.

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3.3 Cetacean sightings
Cetaceans are considered to be under threat in many parts of the world and in response to
this threat, a national database of cetacean sightings, the Seychelles Marine Mammal
Observatory (SMMO), has been set up. GVI records all incidental cetacean sightings and
passes all data to MCSS for inclusion in the national database. Data recorded includes
date, time, location (including GPS coordinates where possible), environmental conditions,
number of individuals, distinguishing features, size, behaviour and species.

There were five separate sightings of cetaceans during the phase April – June 2009.
Estimated pod sizes, (numbers seen surfacing together at any one time), ranged from
three to seven individuals. A minimum of 21 individual were seen in total and all
observations were made the boat; there were no sightings of dolphins whilst diving. All
individuals were recorded as bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncates).

3.4 Whale shark sightings

The Seychelles is famous for its seasonal fluctuations in the abundance of whale sharks
(Rhincodon typus). However despite their public profile, relatively little is known about
their behaviour or the ecological factors which influence their migratory patterns. A whale
shark monitoring programme was started by volunteers in 1996 and is now the
cornerstone of a lucrative eco-tourism operation run by MCSS. From 2001 -2003, a
tagging programme was initiated to study migratory patterns as part of the Seychelles
Marine Ecosystem and Management Project (SEYMEMP), and it is now clear that the
sharks seen in the Seychelles are not resident, but range throughout the Indian Ocean.
The oceanographic or biological conditions that determine the movements are unclear, it is
possible however that the sharks follow seasonal variations in the abundance of the
plankton on which they feed.

All sightings of whale sharks are documented in as much detail as possible. This includes
time, date, GPS point, number of animals, size of the individuals, sex, distinguishing
features, behaviour and tag numbers if present. Photographs are also taken whenever
possible of the left and right side of the thorax from the base of the pectoral fin to behind
the gill area.

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 27

There were five whale shark sightings during the April – June 2009 phase. One sighting
occurred during a dive, all others were sightings made from the boat, three of which
involved in-water snorkel encounters for the Expedition Members present. Dr David
Rowat from MCSS visited the Cap Ternay research centre on two occasions during the
phase to deliver a lecture on whale sharks. Dr Rowat’s presentation outlined research
techniques and discussed the current state of knowledge. He also explained the
guidelines for behaviour during in-water encounters with whale sharks which minimise
stress and harm to the animal and maximise the time that it will remain for.

3.5 Plankton sampling

MCSS initiated a plankton monitoring programme in conjunction with the tagging and
incidental recording surveys in an attempt to correlate the frequency of whale shark
sightings with plankton levels. The plankton sampling has been run by MCSS since 2003
in conjunction with their ongoing whale shark monitoring and tagging programmes. GVI
started to assist MCSS in the collection of plankton data in July 2004, and have since
carried out the survey on a weekly basis. Five plankton tows are carried out to the North
Western side of Grouper Point, just outside of Cap Ternay Marine Park, between 08:00
and 11:00 hours. The tows are carried out along a North Westerly course from Grouper
Point. In order to sample over a range of depths, the net is let out a further 5 m every 30
seconds (up to 45 m). Samples are collected in the ‘cod end’ of the net, decanted into a
receptacle and preserved in formalin. After the survey and the filtering process, they are
passed to MCSS for measurement of wet weight and classification of species.
Environmental conditions are also noted (sea state, cloud cover and turbidity).

Plankton tows were successfully conducted on eight occasions during the phase.

3.6 Temperature loggers

In line with a regional drive in research into sea surface temperatures, GVI staff members
assisted Dr David Rowat and Katie Brooks from MCSS in installing four temperature data
loggers early in the phase. One logger was placed at 15 m depth and one at 5 m depths
at Conception North Point and in the centre of Baie Ternay. It is aimed to change the
loggers once per phase to provide continuous temperature data on a frequent basis.

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 28

4 Non-survey Programmes

4.1 Community Development

4.1.1 National Scholarship Programme

The National Scholarship Programme is directly funded by GVI Expedition Members’
payments and aims to increase long term capacity building within the country. National
recruits such as rangers, researchers and students are selected by the local partner
organisations and are brought into the programme as Expedition Members. In order for
SNPA to continue and build upon the research conducted by GVI, scholars are invited to
join every expedition from the pool of SNPA staff.

There were no applicants for the programme this phase.

4.1.2 Working with the International School

The GVI Seychelles community education project works in conjunction with the
International School of the Seychelles (ISS). Lessons are held on Port Launay Beach,
within one of the National Marine Parks on Mahé, where children aged 7 – 9 from ISS are
taught aspects of marine conservation in an environment that ignites and stimulates their
interest. We believe that this branch of the expedition is key to the overall impact of our
role within the Seychelles. It also increases the extent to which Expedition Members are
able to contribute on an individual level, to help raise vital awareness of marine
conservation issues related directly to the Seychelles. Topics taught include Food Chains,
specific habitats such as Mangroves, Seagrass and the Coral Reef system; Endangered
Species; aspects of Marine Pollution and finally the role of the National Marine Parks of
the Seychelles. All lessons focus on the human impacts on these topics and the ways that
we can address these issues, using education as the cornerstone. Lesson plans detail the
main points of each lesson, a time table, different teaching methods to use and games to
play with the children to reinforce the main points. These are appropriately structured for
the age group of the children.

Phase 20 has seen a continuation to the dedicated effort and hard work of staff and
Expedition Members to improve the GVI Seychelles community education project.
Lessons were conducted every Tuesday for five weeks of the phase.

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 29

4.2 Curieuse Island Satellite Camp
Curieuse Island is situated to the North of Mahé, close to Praslin. The island and its
surrounding waters are protected as National Terrestrial and Marine Park, and is one of
only a few places on the planet where a population of Aldabra Giant tortoises lives freely.
It is also one of only two places where the Coco-de-Mer, an endemic species, grows
naturally. The island and reserve serve as a major tourist attraction and economic
resource for the Seychelles, and also suffer from poaching of their resources. Coral Reef
Monitoring and Coral Recruitment surveying was initiated around Curieuse and Praslin
Islands in 2001 and continued until 2004 by Reefcare International. In addition the main
ranger station for SNPA is located on Curieuse and is where the logistical operations of
the reserve are based. In August 2005, GVI established a small satellite camp on
Curieuse to work with SNPA on the continuation and development of this surveying. As the
programme is in line with the research conducted by GVI around North West Mahé, it also
serves as an expansion of the geographical range of the survey area. Curieuse was
historically home to a colony of lepers and it is a shared vision of GVI and SNPA to restore
some of the old houses to their original state, as part of a visitor’s attraction. At the
beginning of 2007, GVI broke ground to begin expanding one of the old leper houses, in
which GVI currently resides.

Expedition Members were sent to Curieuse, in groups of 4 or 5, for a total of seven weeks
of the phase. The diving programme could not be run due to logistical issues, however
with the birth of GVI Curieuse as an expedition in its own right coming up in October 2009;
there is a significant amount of preparation in order for the base to be ready to receive a
group of permanent Expedition Members. There has therefore been an increased focus on
renovation of the house.

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 30

5 Literature cited
CRC Reef, 2001, Crown-of-thorns starfish on the Great Barrier Reef: Current state of
knowledge: April 2001. CRRCentre James Cook University, Townsville.
Engelhardt U., 2004, The status of scleractinian coral and reef-associated fish
communities 6 years after the 1998 mass coral bleaching event. Seychelles Marine
Ecosystem Management Project. Global Environment Facility/Government of
Seychelles/World Wildlife Fund, Victoria.
English S., Wilkinson C., Baker V. (Eds.), 1997, Survey Manual for Tropical Marine
Resources, 2nd edn. Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville.
IUCN 1996, A Marine Turtle Conservation Strategy and Action Plan for the Western Indian
Ocean. International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.
Leujak W., Ormond R.F.G., 2007, Comparative accuracy and efficiency of six coral
community survey methods. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 351,
168-187.
Payet R., Bijoux J., Adam P-A., 2005, Status and Recovery of Carbonate and Granitic
Reefs in the Seychelles Inner Islands and Implications for Management. Coral Reef
Degradation in the Indian Ocean: Status Report 2005. CORDIO, Kalmar
Pratchett M.S., 2007, Feeding preferences of Acanthaster planci (Echinodermata:
Asteroidea) under controlled conditions of food availability. Pacific Science 61 (Issue 1),
113-120
Seychelles Fishing Authority, 1995, The Status of Seychelles Demersal Fishery.
Government of Seychelles, Victoria.
Spencer T., Telek K.A., Bradshaw C., Spalding M.D., 2000, Coral bleaching in the
Southern Seychelles During the 1997 – 1998 Indian Ocean Warm Event. Marine Pollution
Bulletin 40 (Issue 7), 569-586.
Veron J.E.N., 2000, Corals of the world. Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville,
p. 295.

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 31

 6 Appendices
Appendix A. Details of sites surveyed by Global Vision International Seychelles – Mahé, year
round

Site Survey Granitic/Carbo

Site Name GPS
No frequency nate

1 Conception North Point S 04°39.583, E 055°21.654 Bi-annual Granitic

2 Conception Central East Face S 04°39.891, E 055° 22.258 Bi-annual Carbonate
4 Port Launay West Rocks S 04º39.416, E 055º23.382 Bi-annual Granitic
5 Port Launay South Reef S 04º39.158, E 055º23.695’ Bi-annual Carbonate
7 Baie Ternay Lighthouse S 04°38.373, E 055°21.993 Additional Granitic
8 Baie Ternay Reef NE S 04°38.013, E 055°22.405 Bi-annual Granitic
9 Baie Ternay Reef Centre S 04°38.321, E 055°22.504 Bi-annual Carbonate
10 Baie Ternay Reef NW S 04°38.382, E 055°22.133 Bi-annual Carbonate
11 Ray’s Point S 04°37.347, E 055°23.145 Additional Granitic
12 A Willie’s Bay Reef S 04°37.650, E 055°22.889 Annual Carbonate
12 B Willie’s Bay Point S 04°37.589, E 055°22.776 Bi-annual Granitic
13 A Anse Major Reef S 04°37.546, E 055°23.121 Bi-annual Carbonate
13 B Anse Major Point S 04°37.509, E 055°23.010 Additional Granitic
14 Whale Rock S 04°37.184, E 055°23.424 Bi-annual Granitic
15 Auberge Reef S 04°37.024, E 055°24.243 Annual Carbonate
16 Corsaire Reef S 04°37.016, E 055°24.447 Bi-annual Carbonate
17 White Villa Reef S 04º36.935, E 055º24.749 Bi-annual Carbonate
18 L’ilot North Face S 04°38.652, E 055°25.932 Annual Granitic
19 Site Y S 04°37.771, E 055°22.660 Bi-annual Granitic
20 Aquarium S 04°36.155, E 055°25.376 Additional Carbonate
21 Therese North End S 04°40.101, E 055°23.737 Bi-annual Granitic
22 Therese North East S 04°40.099, E 055°23.891 Bi-annual Carbonate
23 Therese South S 04°40.764, E 055°24.310 Annual Granitic
24 Site X S 04°37.059, E 055°23.783 Bi-annual Granitic

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 32

Appendix B. Coral genera surveyed by Global Vision International Seychelles in the period
April – June 2009

Acroporidae Fungiidae Merulinidae

Acropora Fungia Merulina
Montipora Cycloseris Hydnophora
Astreopora Diaseris Faviidae
Pocilloporidae Herpolitha Montastrea
Pocillopora Halomitra Favia
Stylophora Podabacia Favites
Seriatopora Siderastreidae Cyphastrea
Poritidae Siderastrea Plesiastrea
Porites Pseudosiderastrea Leptastrea
Goniopora Coscinaraea Diploastrea
Alveopora Psammacora Platygyra
Dendrophylliidae Astrocoeniidae Leptoria
Turbinaria Stylocoeniella Oulophyllia
Euphyllidae Agariciidae Goniastrea
Physogyra Pavona Echinopora
Mussidae Leptoseris Pectiniidae
Lobophyllia Gardineroseris Pectinia
Symphyllia Coeloseris Mycedium
Acanthastrea Pachyseris Echinophyllia
Blastomussa Oculinidae
Galaxea

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 33

Appendix C. Invertebrates surveyed by Global Vision International Seychelles in the period
April – June 2009

Sabellidae Feather Duster worms

Annelida (Polychaeta) Serpulidae Christmas Tree worms
Terebellidae Spaghetti worms
(Platyhelminthes) Polycladida Flatworms
Caridea Shrimps
Arthropoda (Crustacea) Stomatopoda Mantis shrimps
- Crabs
Muricidae Murex
Drupella sp. Drupella
Strombidae Conch
Cypraeidae Cowrie
Ranellidae Triton
Mollusca (Gastropoda)
Conidae Cone
Trochidae Top
Cassidae Helmet
- Other shells
Nudibranchia Nudibranchs
Ostreidae Oysters
Mollusca (Bivalvia)
Tridacnidae Giant Clam
Sepoidea Cuttlefish
Mollusca (Cephalopoda)
Teuthoidea Squid
Culcita sp. Cushion Sea Star
Sea Stars (Asteroidea) Acanthaster planci Crown of Thorns Sea Star
Other Sea Stars
Ophiuroidea Brittle Stars
Crinoidea Feather Stars
Diadema sp. Long Spine Urchin
Echinometra sp. Mathae’s Urchin
Echinothrix sp. Short Spine Urchin
Sea Urchins (Echinoidea)
Pencil Urchin
Toxopneustes sp. Flower Urchin
Cake Urchin

© Global Vision International – 2009 Page 34