PROPAGATION OF CORAL COMMUNITY IN NAHA PORT USING CORAL NET

Abstract

 The field observation was conducted to verify application of the technique using the mesh-type artificial base CORAL NET for restoring a coral community in the Naha port. Sedimentation of silts and existing of algal mat deteriorate settlement condition of coralline algae. To avoid sedimentation of silts, CORAL NET was installed at some distance upper from the seabed, and this installation can improve coral habitat. The highest survival rate (80%) of the settled coral was observed one year after the base installation. Coverage of Acropora spp. and Pocillopora spp. on the base reached 45% during 5 years observation.