Crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) and coral cover surveys of the reefs of Vanuatu

The distribution and abundance of the crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) and the cover of living and dead coral were investigated at 29 sites around 13 islands of Vanuatu using spot dives, manta tows and belt transects in 1988.Survey sites were located in the vicinity of the following islands and reefs: Aneityum, Tanna, Erromango, Efate, Cook's Reef, Pentecost, Gaua, Ureparapara, Reef Islands, Espiritu Santo, Malakula and Epi.Rapid macroscale surveys of the upper reef slopes (At each site, the number of Acanthaster planci observed was recorded. The percentage cover of living and dead scleractinian corals was visually estimated, and depth, aspect and coral diversity noted. Particular note was made of any extensive areas of dead standing tabulate and staghorn Acropora spp. on reef slopes as these indicated possible outbreaks of Acanthaster planci in the recent past.Additional details of Acanthaster planci activity on Efate reefs were obtained from questionnaires and interviews with tourist operators and divers. This research was undertaken to investigate the status of Acanthaster planci in Vanuatu. This research was a component of a survey of Vanuatu Marine Resources conducted in March/April 1988 and was funded by the Australian International Development Assistance Bureau.The objectives of the survey were1. To survey and describe the shallow water reef habitats from selected islands of Vanuatu, adequately covering geographical and environmental variation2. To survey and describe the marine habitats around the shores of Malakula, including offshore islands3. To derive a coastal management plan for Malakula and offshore islands which can serve as a basis for Coastal Zone Management plans for the rest of the country4. To train Ni-Vanuatu personnel in marine survey and marine conservation methods