Status of the Coral Reefs Report 2002

While most of us surface from a dive excitedly discussing the fish that we have seen , how many of us actually come up and discuss the corals that we saw (apart from cursing getting grazed by a staghorn)? Are we really taking notice of the coral life, and celebrating its diversity? Recently, I joined Debby on one of her increasingly popular Hantu Bloggers Dives. Viz averaged about 1m, and while this does not afford you much opportunity for spotting fish, it really allows you to change your focus to the coral, and take the opportunity to learn and understand more about coral life. Thanks to Debby for putting a lot of effort into sharing her knowledge about coral life, and making these Hantu Blogger dives fun, educational and memorable for all the divers. Since then, I have become increasingly interested in learning more about the coral reef itself, and this has enriched my dive experiences, making them far more interesting and fulfilling....Good or bad viz, with this added knowledge and interest, there will always be something of interest on the dive, and to celebrate upon surfacing.



I have attached a link to the Status of Coral Reef 2002 report, published by the Australian Institute of Marine Science, with support, in part, by the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) . The chapter I have attached is with reference to SE Asia. This report warns that our reefs are under threat primarily from the activities of humans on and around the reefs, but provides some hope by highlighting isolated successes of reef rejuvenation through effective efforts in reef monitoring and management.



http://www.aims.gov.au/pages/research/coral-bleaching/scr2002/pdf/scr2002-07.pdf



Do take time out to read this report, and learn more about the state of the reefs in our region and elsewhere. I promise that next time you descend, you will see so much more, and your experience will be enriched by a better appreciation for the diversity and fragility of our seas.



Cheers!

Johari