May 2025 Survey - Abaco Island
Coral Reef Survey Report
Location: Bookie’s Bay Reef, Abaco Island, The Bahamas Date of Survey: May 17, 2025 Survey Method: Underwater photographic visual assessment
1. Coral Species Present
Based on the visual assessment of the images, the following coral types appear to be present:
Soft Corals (Octocorals):
Observed Gorgonian corals, commonly known as sea fans and sea whips.
Hard Corals (Scleractinians):
Brain Corals: Rounded, boulder-like corals with a grooved surface resembling a brain were visible in numbers, potentially belonging to species within the Diploria or Colpophyllia genera, which are common in the Bahamas.
Elkhorn Coral (Acropora palmata) or Staghorn Coral (Acropora cervicornis): Fragmented, branching structures were visible. These corals bear some resemblance to Acropora species, which are ecologically important but have suffered a significant decline in the Caribbean. However, without closer inspection, it's difficult to definitively identify them and distinguish between the two or confirm their living status versus being dead skeletal remains.
Leafy/Plate-like Corals: During this month’s survey, I identified what could potentially be species of Agaricia or similar genera.
Massive/Mound Corals: Irregular, lumpy coral formations are also observed, which could represent various massive coral species. During April’s survey, Siderastrea siderea, commonly known as massive starlet coral or round starlet coral, was observed in its purple bleached state.
Pillar Coral (Dendrogyra cylindrus): While not definitively identifiable, some upright, finger-like structures observed could potentially be degraded remains of Pillar Coral, an endangered coral species.
2. Reef Structure and Health
Structural Complexity:
This reef has moderate structural complexity. There is a mix of different coral growth forms (boulder, branching, plate-like), creating some three-dimensional habitat. However, there are also areas that appear more flattened or rubble-strewn, indicating potential loss of structural complexity. The presence of larger boulder corals contributes to vertical relief, and the extent of live branching corals, which typically contribute significantly to the reef’s complexity.
Coral Health Indicators:
Algal Overgrowth: Some corals did appear to have increased algal growth on their surfaces compared to April’s observations. This is a common indicator of stress and can inhibit coral growth and survival.
Bleaching: There were no widespread, obvious signs of coral bleaching (loss of color) in this month’s survey. However, subtle signs of stress or early stages of bleaching might have been overlooked.
Sedimentation: Some areas appear to have a significant amount of sediment accumulation on the reef structure, which can smother corals and reduce water clarity. Recent storms could be a contributing factor.
Physical Damage/Breakage: Fragmented coral structures, particularly those resembling Acropora, suggest past physical damage, possibly from storms or other disturbances. The current state of these fragments (live vs. dead) was not always clear.
Presence of Disease: No clear signs of coral diseases (e.g., distinct lesions, tissue loss) are readily apparent.
3. Fish and Marine Life Observed
Fish Diversity:
Parrotfish, numerous species including:
Scarus vetula - Queen parrotfish
Sparisoma viride - stoplight parrotfish
Canthidermis sufflamen - Ocean Triggerfish
Microspathodon chrysurus - Yellowtail Damselfish, both juvenile and adult species witnessed
Tursiops - Bottlenose dolphins
Ecological Role:
The presence of herbivorous fish like parrotfish is important for controlling algal growth on the reef.
The corals themselves provide habitat and food sources for a multitude of marine organisms.
The presence of dolphins in the vicinity of the reef. As apex predators in this ecosystem, dolphins play a role in the overall marine food web. While not directly interacting with the coral reef, their presence indicates a broader healthy marine environment.
