A survey of the density of starfish and sea urchins to determine the grazing pressure of these species on a sponge dominated reef, Cape Armitage

In order to determine the grazing pressure of starfish and sea urchin species on the benthic community of a reef at Cape Armitage, a survey was made of these species densities. The survey was stratified by depth. All individuals encountered in five 20m x 1m transects at each depth level were identified and measured. Each animal was examined in order to identify any species. Twelve further 1m x 1m quadrats were examined in detail specifically to look for smaller individuals.