image: Anchor chain damages a giant barrel sponge, Xestospongia muta. Large anchor chains of oil tankers and shipping vessels can rapidly damage coral reef habitats. Note the presence of divers for scale. Still frame courtesy of Robin Waite, Yap Films Inc. view more
Credit: Figure 4 from PLoS ONE paper e9622 by Thacker et al. courtesy of Robin Waite, Yap Films Inc
Researchers from Conservation International and its partners have completed a collection of rapid assessment biodiversity surveys of the Saba Bank. The Biodiversity of Saba Bank collection, which publishes in PLoS ONE on May 21st, represents the first ever peer-reviewed open access cross-taxonomy collection of Conservation International's Marine Rapid Assessment Program (RAP).
The Saba Bank is a 2200 km2 coral reef atoll located southwest of Saba Island in the Caribbean Sea. The Bank, which is known to be rich in marine life, is also a popular place for oil tankers to anchor. Though anchoring in the Bank allows the tankers save on expensive port fees; the damage caused from the anchors threatens the coral reef and sponge habitats.
In an effort to protect the Saba Bank from further anchor damage, the Department of Environment and Nature of the Netherlands Antilles wants to seek approval to designate the Bank as a 'Particularly Sensitive Sea Area'. However, more information on the biodiversity of the area was needed to provide the scientific justification for the Bank to become the third largest marine protected area in the Caribbean.
The rapid assessment biodiversity research included in the PLoS ONE Biodiversity of Saba Bank collection provides critical information on the benthic communities and reef fish that inhabit the Saba Bank. The results of Conservation International's innovative Marine Rapid Assessment Program (Marine RAP) included several species potentially new to science that were collected from one of the largest coral reefs in the Caribbean.
The collection includes six research articles written by collaborators from Conservation International's Science and Knowledge Division, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Department of Environment & Nature of the Netherlands Antilles, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, and University of Alabama among others.
The release of the PLOS ONE Biodiversity of Saba Bank collection comes on the eve of The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) on May 22, proclaimed by the United Nations to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues.
Contact:
Paul C. Hoetjes
Senior Policy Advisor
Department of Environment & Nature (MINA) Ministry of Public Health & Social Development (VSO) Schouwburgweg 26 (APNA building) Curaçao Netherlands Antilles
tel. +(599-9)466-9307
fax: +(599-9)461-0254
e-mail: paul@mina.vomil.an
Contact for CI for these marine surveys
For general information on CI's Rapid Assessment Program:
Leeanne Alonso
Vice President and Director, Rapid Assessment Program
Conservation International
Tel. 703-3412-2590
E-mail: l.alonso@conservation.org
Jen Laloup
Public Library of Science
415-624-1220
jlaloup@plos.org
PLEASE LINK TO THE COLLECTION IN ONLINE VERSIONS OF YOUR REPORT (URL goes live after the embargo ends): http://ploscollections.org/article/browseIssue.action?issue=info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fissue.pcol.v02.i08
FOR A PRESS-ONLY PREVIEW OF ARTICLE IMAGE, VISIT THE FOLLOWING URL: http://www.plos.org/press/pone-05-05-sabacollectionimage.jpg [Figure 4 from PLoS ONE paper e9622 by Thacker et al. courtesy of Robin Waite, Yap Films Inc] Caption: Anchor chain damaging a giant barrel sponge, Xestospongia muta. Large anchor chains of oil tankers and shipping vessels can rapidly damage coral reef habitats. Note the presence of divers for scale. Still frame courtesy of Robin Waite, Yap Films Inc.
Rapid Assessment of Octocoral Diversity and Habitat on Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles
Background: Saba Bank is a large submerged platform (2200 km2), average depth 30 m, located 4 km southwest of Saba Island in Netherlands Antilles, Caribbean Sea. Ships traveling to and from oil terminals on nearby St. Eustatius routinely anchor on the Bank, damaging benthic megafauna. Gorgonian octocorals are vulnerable to anchor damage, and they are common and conspicuous in shallow water (15 m) around the banks. This prompted a rapid assessment of octocoral habitat and diversity. The primary objectives were to estimate total species richness and to characterize habitats vis a vis gorgonians.
Methods: Landsat imagery and multibeam bathymetry were employed to identify random sites for quantitative transects. A Seabotix LBV200L remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and SCUBA were used to collect and survey to 130 m. A total of 14 scuba divesand 3 ROV dives were completed in 10 days. During that time, 48 octocoral species were collected, including two likely undescribed species in the genera Pterogorgia and Lytreia. Gorgonian richness was exceptional, but not all species were collected, because the species accumulation curve remained steeply inclined after all surveys. Two shallow-water gorgonian habitat types were identified using multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analyses: 1) a high diversity, high density fore-reef environment characterized by Eunicea spp., Gorgonia spp., and Pseudopterogorgia spp. and 2) a low diversity, low density plateau environment characterized by Pseudopterogorgia acerosa, Pterogorgia guadalupensis, and Gorgonia mariae. The analyses support hypotheses of broad (,15 km) habitat homogeneity (ANOSIM, P.0.05), but a significant difference between fore-reef and plateau environments (ANOSIM, P,0.05). However, there was some indication of habitat heterogeneity along the 15 km study section of the 50 km platform edge along the southeast rim.
Conclusion: Our results highlight the complexity and biodiversity of the Saba Bank, and emphasize the need for more scientific exploration.
Citation: Etnoyer PJ, Wirshing HH, Sa´nchez JA (2010) Rapid Assessment of Octocoral Diversity and Habitat on Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles. PLoS ONE 5(5): e10668. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0010668
FOR A PRESS-ONLY PREVIEW OF THE FULL ARTICLE, VISIT THE FOLLOWING URL: http://www.plos.org/press/pone-05-05-etnoyer-saba.pdf
PLEASE LINK TO THE SCIENTIFIC ARTICLE IN ONLINE VERSIONS OF YOUR REPORT (URL goes live after the embargo ends): http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0010668
Marine Macroalgal Diversity Assessment of Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles
Background: Located in the Dutch Windward Islands, Saba Bank is a flat-topped seamount (20 m deep in the shallower regions). The primary goals of the survey were to improve knowledge of biodiversity for one of the world's most significant, but little-known, seamounts and to increase basic data and analyses to promote the development of an improved management plan.
Methodology/Principal Findings: Our team of three divers used scuba to collect algal samples to depths of 50 m at 17 dive sites. Over 360 macrophyte specimens (12 putative new species) were collected, more than 1,000 photographs were taken in truly exceptional habitats, and three astonishing new seaweed community types were discovered. These included: (1)''Field of Greens'' (N 17u30.6209, W 63u27.7079) dominated by green seaweeds as well as some filamentous reds, (2) ''Brown Town'' (N 17u28.0279, W 63u14.9449) dominated by large brown algae, and (3) ''Seaweed City'' (N 17u26.4859, W 63u16.8509) with a diversity of spectacular fleshy red algae.
Conclusions/Significance: Dives to 30 m in the more two-dimensional interior habitats revealed particularly robust specimens of algae typical of shallower seagrass beds, but here in the total absence of any seagrasses (seagrasses generally do not grow below 20 m). Our preliminary estimate of the number of total seaweed species on Saba Bank ranges from a minimum of 150 to 200. Few filamentous and thin sheet forms indicative of stressed or physically disturbed environments were observed. A more precise number still awaits further microscopic and molecular examinations in the laboratory. The expedition, while intensive, has only scratched the surface of this unique submerged seamount/atoll.
Citation: Littler MM, Littler DS, Brooks BL (2010) Marine Macroalgal Diversity Assessment of Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles. PLoS ONE 5(5): e10677. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0010677
FOR A PRESS-ONLY PREVIEW OF THE FULL ARTICLE, VISIT THE FOLLOWING URL: http://www.plos.org/press/pone-05-05-littler.pdf
PLEASE LINK TO THE SCIENTIFIC ARTICLE IN ONLINE VERSIONS OF YOUR REPORT (URL goes live after the embargo ends): http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0010677
Preliminary Assessment of Sponge Biodiversity on Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles
Background: Saba Bank Atoll, Netherlands Antilles, is one of the three largest atolls on Earth and provides habitat for an extensive coral reef community. To improve our knowledge of this vast marine resource, a survey of biodiversity at Saba Bank included a multi-disciplinary team that sampled fishes, mollusks, crustaceans, macroalgae, and sponges.
Methodology/Principal Findings: A single member of the dive team conducted surveys of sponge biodiversity during eight dives at six locations, at depths ranging from 15 to 30 m. This preliminary assessment documented the presence of 45 species pooled across multiple locations. Rarefaction analysis estimated that only 48 to 84% of species diversity was sampled by this limited effort, clearly indicating a need for additional surveys. An analysis of historical collections from Saba and Saba Bank revealed an additional 36 species, yielding a total of 81 sponge species recorded from this area.
Conclusions/Significance: This observed species composition is similar to that found on widespread Caribbean reefs, indicating that the sponge fauna of Saba Bank is broadly representative of the Caribbean as a whole. A robust population of the giant barrel sponge, Xestospongia muta, appeared healthy with none of the signs of disease or bleaching reported from other Caribbean reefs; however, more recent reports of anchor chain damage to these sponges suggests that human activities can have dramatic impacts on these communities. Opportunities to protect this extremely large habitat should be pursued, as Saba Bank may serve as a significant reservoir of sponge species diversity.
Citation: Thacker RW, Dı´az MC, de Voogd NJ, van Soest RWM, Freeman CJ, et al. (2010) Preliminary Assessment of Sponge Biodiversity on Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles. PLoS ONE 5(5): e9622. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0009622
FOR A PRESS-ONLY PREVIEW OF THE FULL ARTICLE, VISIT THE FOLLOWING URL: http://www.plos.org/press/pone-05-05-thackersaba.pdf
PLEASE LINK TO THE SCIENTIFIC ARTICLE IN ONLINE VERSIONS OF YOUR REPORT (URL goes live after the embargo ends): http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0009622
Biodiversity Assessment of the Fishes of Saba Bank Atoll, Netherlands Antilles
Background: Biodiversity surveys were conducted on Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles, to assess ichthyofaunal richness and to compare with published surveys of other Caribbean localities. The primary objective was to estimate the total species richness of the Saba Bank ichthyofauna.
Methodology/Principal Findings: A variety of sampling techniques was utilized to survey the fish species of both the visually accessible megafauna and the camouflaged and small-sized species comprising the cryptic ichthyofauna. Based on results presented herein, the number of species known on Saba Bank is increased from 42 previously known species to 270 species. Expected species-accumulation curves demonstrate that the current estimate of species richness of fishes for Saba Bank under represents the actual richness, and our knowledge of the ichthyofauna has not plateaued. The total expected fish species richness may be somewhere between 320 and 411 species. The Saba Bank ichthyofaunal assemblage is compared to fish assemblages found elsewhere in the Caribbean. Despite the absence of shallow or emergent shore habitats like mangroves, Saba Bank ranks as having the eighth highest ichthyofaunal richness of surveyed localities in the Greater Caribbean. Some degree of habitat heterogeneity was evident. Fore-reef, patch-reef, and lagoonal habitats were sampled.
Conclusions: Fish assemblages were significantly different between habitats. Species richness was highest on the fore reef, but 11 species were found only at lagoonal sites. A comprehensive, annotated list of the fishes currently known to occur on Saba Bank, Netherland Antilles, is provided and color photographs of freshly collected specimens are presented for 165 of the listed species of Saba Bank fishes to facilitate identification and taxonomic comparison with similar taxa at other localities. Coloration of some species is shown for the first time. Preliminary analysis indicates that at least six undescribed new species were collected during the survey and these are indicated in the annotated list.
Citation: Williams JT, Carpenter KE, Van Tassell JL, Hoetjes P, Toller W, et al. (2010) Biodiversity Assessment of the Fishes of Saba Bank Atoll, Netherlands Antilles. PLoS ONE 5(5): e10676. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0010676
FOR A PRESS-ONLY PREVIEW OF THE FULL ARTICLE, VISIT THE FOLLOWING URL: http://www.plos.org/press/pone-05-05-williams-saba.pdf
PLEASE LINK TO THE SCIENTIFIC ARTICLE IN ONLINE VERSIONS OF YOUR REPORT (URL goes live after the embargo ends): http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0010676
Rapid Assessment of Stony Coral Richness and Condition on Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles
Background: The benthic habitats of Saba Bank (17u259N, 63u309W) are at risk from maritime traffic, especially oil tankers (e.g., anchoring). To mitigate this risk, information is needed on the biodiversity and location of habitats to develop a zone use plan.
Methodology/Principal Findings: A rapid survey to document the biodiversity of macro-algae, sponges, corals and fishes was conducted. Here we report on the richness and condition of stony coral species at 18 select sites, and we test for the effects of bottom type, depth, and distance from platform edge. Species richness was visually assessed by roving scuba diver with voucher specimens of each species collected. Coral tissue was examined for bleaching and diseases. Thirty-three coral species were documented. There were no significant differences in coral composition among bottom types or depth classes (ANOSIM, P.0.05). There was a significant difference between sites (ANOSIM, P,0.05) near and far from the platform edge. The number of coral species observed ranged from zero and one in algal dominated habitats to 23 at a reef habitat on the southern edge of the Bank. Five reef sites had stands of Acropora cervicornis, a critically endangered species on the IUCN redlist. Bleaching was evident at 82% of the sites assessed with 43 colonies bleached. Only three coral colonies were observed to have disease.
Conclusion: Combining our findings with that of other studies, a total of 43 species have been documented from Saba Bank. The coral assemblage on the bank is representative and typical of those found elsewhere in the Caribbean. Although our findings will help develop effective protection, more information is needed on Saba Bank to create a comprehensive zone use plan. Nevertheless, immediate action is warranted to protect the diverse coral reef habitats documented here, especially those containing A. cervicornis.
Citation: McKenna SA, Etnoyer P (2010) Rapid Assessment of Stony Coral Richness and Condition on Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles. PLoS ONE 5(5): e10749. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0010749
FOR A PRESS-ONLY PREVIEW OF THE FULL ARTICLE, VISIT THE FOLLOWING URL: http://www.plos.org/press/pone-05-05-mckenna-saba.pdf
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Reef Fishes of Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles: Assemblage Structure across a Gradient of Habitat Types
Background: Saba Bank is a 2,200 km2 submerged carbonate platform in the northeastern Caribbean Sea off Saba Island, Netherlands Antilles. The presence of reef-like geomorphic features and significant shelf edge coral development on Saba Bank have led to the conclusion that it is an actively growing, though wholly submerged, coral reef atoll. However, little information exists on the composition of benthic communities or associated reef fish assemblages of Saba Bank.
Methodology/Principal Findings: We selected a 40 km2 area of the bank for an exploratory study. Habitat and reef fish assemblages were investigated in five shallow-water benthic habitat types that form a gradient from Saba Bank shelf edge to lagoon. Significant coral cover was restricted to fore reef habitat (average cover 11.5%) and outer reef flat habitat (2.4%) and declined to near zero in habitats of the central lagoon zone. Macroalgae dominated benthic cover in all habitats (average cover: 32.5 – 48.1%) but dominant algal genera differed among habitats. A total of 97 fish species were recorded. The composition of Saba Bank fish assemblages differed among habitat types. Highest fish density and diversity occurred in the outer reef flat, fore reef and inner reef flat habitats. Biomass estimates for commercially valued species in the reef zone (fore reef and reef flat habitats) ranged between 52 and 83 g/m2.
Conclusion: The composition of Saba Bank fish assemblages reflects the absence of important nursery habitats, as well as the effects of past fishing. The relatively high abundance of large predatory fish (i.e. groupers and sharks), which is generally considered an indicator of good ecosystem health for tropical reef systems, shows that an intact trophic network is still present on Saba Bank.
Citation: Toller W, Debrot AO, Vermeij MJA, Hoetjes PC (2010) Reef Fishes of Saba Bank, Netherlands Antilles: Assemblage Structure across a Gradient of Habitat Types. PLoS ONE 5(5): e9207. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0009207
FOR A PRESS-ONLY PREVIEW OF THE FULL ARTICLE, VISIT THE FOLLOWING URL: http://www.plos.org/press/pone-05-05-tollersaba.pdf
PLEASE LINK TO THE SCIENTIFIC ARTICLE IN ONLINE VERSIONS OF YOUR REPORT (URL goes live after the embargo ends): http://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0009207
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