Changes in benthic community structure of coral reefs at the Kenyan coast
Balthazar, I. (2024). Changes in benthic community structure of coral reefs at the Kenyan coast, in: Mees, J. et al.Book of abstracts – VLIZ Marine Science Day, 6 March 2024, Oostende. VLIZ Special Publication, 91: pp. 50
In: Mees, J.; Seys, J. (Ed.) (2024). Book of abstracts – VLIZ Marine Science Day, 6 March 2024, Oostende. VLIZ Special Publication, 91. Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ): Oostende. vii + 130 pp. https://dx.doi.org/10.48470/71, more
In: VLIZ Special Publication. Vlaams Instituut voor de Zee (VLIZ): Oostende. ISSN 1377-0950, more
As fisheries pressure maintains to build up, it is necessary to monitor the impact this has on biodiversity, especially in key environments like coral reefs. Coral reefs, crucial for sustaining fishermen and the vulnerable coastal communities they are part of face threats from overfishing and climate change. This project assesses benthic biodiversity changes due to artisanal fisheries pressure focussing on sites along the East African coast, like Watamu and Mombasa in Kenya. Utilising video transects, current benthic biodiversity is analysed so that it can be compared with historic data previously collected. The changes in biodiversity through time can be mapped and then used to implement into policies to conduct more efficient management plans for small-scale fisheries. By implementing scientific data, the aim of this project is to empower governmental bodies to foster the development of laws for sustainable fisheries management. The research objective is to contribute to reduce the effect of overfishing and enhancing small-scale fisheries sustainability along the East African coast, helping to achieve both local and global goals for a secure future.
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