FRONTIER-TANZANIA MARINE PROGRAMME PHASE 122

Transcription

1 FRONTIER-TANZANIA MARINE PROGRAMME PHASE 122 SCIENCE REPORT UTENDE BEACH, MAFIA ISLAND, TANZANIA 2 ND APRIL 8 TH JUNE 2012 Nahla Mahmoud (Research & Development Intern) Eibleis Fanning (Managing Director) June of 36

2 Staff Members on TZM in 122 Name Owen Jones (OJ) Virginia Harvey (VH) Lucy Nandris (LN) Chris Ryan (CR) Jean Pearson (JP) Lucy May (LM) Holly Clayson (HC) Laura Davis (LD) Position Principal Investigator Project Co-ordinator Project Co-ordinator Dive Instructor Assistant Research Officer Assistant Research Officer Conservation Assistant Conservation Assistant Research Assistants on TZM in Tara Hall - Sarah Hochgeschurz - Laura Davis - Olivia Ainsworth - Jenny Serra - Harry White - Tanja Tobiasen - Alice Geraghty June of 36

3 Frontier-Tanzania Marine Science Report Phase 122 Phase Dates: 2 nd January 9 th March 2012 Authors: Owen Jones, Virginia Harvey, Jean Pearson, Holly Clayson, Laura Davis 1. Introduction Area and camp overview History and rationale of program Training Briefing sessions Science lectures Research Work Program Overview Survey Areas Benthic Composition Surveys Introduction... Error! Bookmark not defined Benthic Composition Methodology... Error! Bookmark not defined Results and Discussion... Error! Bookmark not defined Invertebrate Survey... Error! Bookmark not defined Introduction... Error! Bookmark not defined Methods... Error! Bookmark not defined Results... Error! Bookmark not defined Discussion and Recommendations... Error! Bookmark not defined Commercial Fish Surveys Introduction Methodology Results Commercial Fish Results Discussion Hippopotamus Conservation and Ecotourism Project Objectives of the Project Work done in phase Whale Shark Project Kitomondo Secondary School Project MIMP Newsletter Establishment Proposed work programme for next phase References June of 36

4 1. Introduction 1.1. Area and camp overview The Frontier Tanzania Marine Research Program (TZM) is located on Mafia Island, off the coast of mainland Tanzania, East Africa (see Figure 1). Mafia Island is approximately 120km south of Dar es Salaam, 20km offshore of the Rufiji Delta and 850km south of the equator. Mafia is the central island of the Mafia Archipelago which consists of about 15 sandstone and coral rag islands, several of which are inhabited. Mafia is the largest island, measuring approximately 50km in length by 15km across at its widest point. There is an estimated population of 40,000 people living on the Mafia Archipelago, primarily in the south of the island. Base camp lies inside Mafia Island Marine Park in the village of Utende (S07 o E39 o ). Just 300m from the camp is Chole Bay, a highly tidal and bathymetrically complex inlet, separated from the ocean by Kinasi Pass and Chole Pass, with an average depth of 20m. The tidal range in the bay is approximately 3m on springs and 1m on neaps, with a small intertidal area at mean low water. Figure 1 Location of Mafia Island in Tanzania 1.2. History and rationale of program Frontier Tanzania began in 1989 and the first TZM project was located on Mafia Island ( ). The project s initial objectives were to supply a detailed and comprehensive set of baseline data on the marine environment within Chole Bay, on the east coast of Mafia. With the aid of this information, a management plan was formed and Tanzania s first multi-user marine park was gazetted in The Mafia Island Marine Park (MIMP) is run jointly by the Marine Parks & Reserves Unit of Tanzania and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). After the marine park was gazetted, TZM moved south to the Songo Songo archipelago where mapping, surveying and fisheries work was carried out. TZM then moved along the coastline to Kilwa Kivenge. In June of 36

5 September 1996, TZM moved to Mnazi Bay near to the Mozambique border. During this period, monitoring work on the coral bleaching event caused by El Niño took place to assess the recovery rate of the coral reef. In January 2001, TZM relocated north to Pemba, where biological surveys and socio-economic research were conducted, with the aim of producing recommendations for a management plan for the marine resources around Misali Island. After the closure of TZM in Pemba in 2004, the programme re-opened in the new location of Mikindoni Bay in June From Mikindoni, TZM moved back to Utende on the east coast of Mafia Island in January Monitoring work was carried out in Chole Bay within the MIMP boundaries. In November 2007, the project moved to the mid-western coast of Mafia, outside of the marine park. In January 2010, Frontier TZM field camp was relocated back to Utende, within MIMP. Frontier is to be based within Utende for the next 5 years (Jan 2010 to December 2015). The aim of the project is to implement and complete aspects of a five year survey and monitoring programme agreed between Frontier and MIMP. Objectives within the programme include: Collection of baseline biodiversity data on coral reefs within MIMP Collection of baseline mangrove survey data and mapping of habitats Collection of baseline sea-grass bed data and mapping of habitats Comparison of biodiversity in different use zones of MIMP Collection of socio economic survey data on fisheries areas and fishing methods Collection of socio economic survey data on mangrove harvesting, forest logging and coral mining Collection of socio economic levels, including poverty, access to health care, education and impact of tourism Collection of socio economic data on community relations with MIMP Feasibility studies of potential aquaculture projects Development of a management plan and risk assessment report for MIMP, based on evaluation of datasets. 2. Training 2.1. Briefing sessions Briefings sessions took place the first few days and covered the following topics: health and safety, medical issues,tzm projects history, phase aims and objectives, safety and security on camp and life on camp.(table 1). Table 1. Briefing sessions conducted during phase122. Briefings Health & Safety Given By Virginia Harvey June of 36

6 Medical brief Introduction to TZM project Camp life and duties Adriana Puente Owen Jones All Staff 2.2. Science lectures Marine science lectures were conducted throughout phase 121 in order to aid RAs in identifying species required to complete surveys (Table 2). Additional lectures were well received and helped RAs develop a broader understanding of marine ecology and conservation. Table 2. Science lectures conducted during phase 121 Science Lectures Coral Reef Ecology and identification Fish morphology and ecology Surveying and Monitoring Invertebrates Whale Shark Project Hippo Project Given By Owen Jones Owen Jones, Jean Pearson, Virginia Harvey, Lucy May, Holly Clayson Virginia Harvey Jean Pearson Virginia Harvey Adriana Puente 2.3. Field Work Training Field work training was provided through a series of lectures and practical sessions in the field. All lectures were given either on camp or at the MIMP office conference room in Utende and multiple MIMP staff attended lectures. Lectures were given covering all fish families and species needed for surveys. This phase, the fish list was adapted to suit the needs of the MIMP long term monitoring goals, focusing on commercial fish and families which can be indicators of reef health. Fish tests were completed by Powerpoint presentations and new staff and RAs were required to reach a 95% pass mark before surveying could commence. Where RAs initially failed to reach the pass mark, individual study periods were held and RAs re-tested until the required pass mark was reached. After passing written fish and coral tests underwater sessions were held with staff to further test RAs. Fish size estimation training was carried out snorkelling on shore through estimating the size of plastic fish on a line held down near the bottom by weights. RAs swam 1-2 meters above the fish and estimated their sizes. RAs practiced and were tested multiple times until they reached a 95% pass mark. Benthic composition field training entailed a Powerpoint lecture and tests as well as underwater training to ensure consistency between recorders. June of 36

7 3. Research Work Program 3.1. Overview Most of the research undertaken this phase was completed early on in the phase, as weather conditions meant that we were unable to complete our intended targets for data collection. The focus of the work programme in 122 was to attempt to continue the monitoring of key commercial species that had started in 113, which included sites in the Specified Use Zone and Core Zone of the park. Other conservation work and ecological surveys completed during phase 122 included: Pursuit of funding to complete a 12 month study on whale sharks with the WWF Continuation of work with Kitomondo Secondary School Environmental Ambassadors, including awareness raising events in two schools, and a trip to Sweden to compete in the Volvo Adventure 2012 environmental conference Survey Areas Survey sites during phase 122 were located within core and general use zones within Chole Bay and outside the mouth of the bay. The reef survey areas are described and their locations illustrated below (Figure 2. Location of Milimani within Mafia Island Marine Park, survey stations are indicated in blue squares.). Milimani dive site is located several hundred metres west of Kinasi pass and is surrounded by sand and sea grass. Milimani contains a shelf of coral that gradually gets deeper to around 20m depth, and contains high amounts of foliose, massive and branching coral. Fish abundance is very diverse, with fish species ranging from napoleon wrasse to juvenile groupers, with large schools of soldierfish frequently seen sheltering in the submassive coral. Figure 2. Location of Milimani within Mafia Island Marine Park, survey stations are indicated in blue squares. June of 36

8 Chole Wall (Figure 3) separates Utumbe from Kinasi Pass and lies 6.06km from Utende. Chole shows the highest biodiversity of all the sites within the bay, with high abundances of Acropora formosia, Acropora validia and Montipora equitubercullatia, Scleractinian corals, dominating the benthos. There are many Alcyonacea species including Anthelia Glauca, Cespitularia erecta and Xeniidea sp, all present in high abundance. The bathymetry of the site comprises a steep shelving wall from 5-14m with a rich and boidivers reef flat. It bathymetry falls away to a sandy rubble filled deep water channel. Exposed to fast currents on the tidal ebb and flow, Chole Wall shows a high abundance of both commercial and reef fish species. Figure 3. Location of Chole Wall within Mafia Island Marine Park Mikadini lies opposite Jina Island, slightly north of the Kinasi Pass dive site. Mikadini has no wall or steep drop off, but is rather a gradual slope towards deeper waters that extend to around 30m deep. Benthic composition is diverse, and features wide ranges of hard and soft corals. Being located outside of the bay, large pelagic fishes are found here, as well as large groups of sweetlips, snappers and emperors. The site is only accessible seasonally due to the exposed location and usually shows very good visibility. There is always a gentle northerly current and the top shelf can be highly dangerous in strong surf. June of 36

9 Figure 4 Location of Mikadini within Mafia Island Marine Park Jina Wall is situated only several metres south of Dinidini, directly after the Jina Island pass. The wall continues on from Dinidini, and conditions are very similar at the two sites, with a drop off from a coral ledge at around 6m that extends to around 25m depth. Large pelagic fish are found swimming along the wall. Potato grouper, Trevally and Snappers were found in abundance. Hard coral abundance is also high, with high levels of digitate and columnar coral at Jina Wall. Figure 5. Location of Jina Wall in Mafia Island Marine Park June of 36

10 3.3. Benthic Composition Surveys Introduction In such a rapidly changing environment, it is imperative that we record the general health of coral reef systems in order to monitor the extent and severity of decline and determine the greatest causes and risks to the reefs. The complexity of the system is demonstrated by the many ecological, structural and functional factors that come into play when analysing coral reef condition: coral cover, macro-algal abundance, colony size, species composition, predator/ grazer interaction mortality and recruitment (Done 1997, Kramer 2003, Mrowicki and Fanning 2008). Coral reefs are one of the most diverse ecosystems on earth, and Mafia Island is a relatively unknown secret. Frontier TZM aims to monitor any changes to the reef through time to be able to understand and protect it from the many threats to this precious habitat, including bleaching, fishing, pollution, waste disposal and coastal development. The composition of the substratum is commonly assessed through benthic surveys. To classify benthos, visual census is one of the most common quantitative and qualitative sampling methods and is particularly well suited for the Frontier-Tanzania Marine Research programme. The visual census is known to be rapid, inexpensive and utilises non-skilled personnel and non-specialist equipment (Hill and Wilkinson 2004). Benthic composition surveys were carried out within phases 113, 114, 121, and 122 and were coupled with commercial fish surveys of abundance and size to allow for comparison between the benthic habitat and fish populations at each site. The primary purpose was to identify the substratum of a total of four reefs (two inside the Specified Use Zone and two inside the No Take Zone of the Marine Park) and evaluate the results, with reference to any significant trends that can be made Benthic Composition Methodology The methodology for the collection of benthic habitat data has been developed by Frontier and used to collect data at a number of locations around Tanzania, and globally (English et al 1987). The benthic methodology has June of 36

11 been changed within the past year to suit the long term monitoring proposal submitted by Frontier and MIMP. Previously 25m transects were laid and substrate sampled every 50cm, however the TZM team decided it would be more appropriate to use a 50m transect, measuring substrate every 1m, as it would facilitate the 50m UVS transects more. Nevertheless, the methodology has thus far gathered 12 months of comparable continuous data on the reef systems of Mafia Island. Benthic composition data was collected in conjunction with commercial fish surveys. Surveyors recorded the benthic substrate type every 1m starting at 0 along a 50m transect set at a constant depth following the reef contour. This resulted in the collection of data at 50 points along each transect. At each site, 12 transects were completed; 6 on the back reef at shallower depths and 6 on the outer reef slope at deeper depth. Benthic data was collected using the categories listed in Table 3. The benthic composition is divided into basic categories; Abiotic forms: include rock, rubble, and sand. Biotic forms; include sea grass, soft coral and hard coral which is further divided into 9 categories based on morphological characteristics. Surveyors were trained in the identification of benthic organisms and substrates through a combination of lectures, field guides, photographs, and in water training. A computer based photo test and an in-water point test were carried out in which the pass mark was set at 95%. Practice surveys were carried out until staff were satisfied that the surveyors practical skills were consistent with their theoretical knowledge. Table 3. Benthic composition categories displaying the codes during data collection Category Code Category Code Category Code HARD CORAL ABIOTIC OTHER BIOTIC Branching BR Sand SA Soft coral SC Columnar COL Rubble RB Sponge SP Tabular TA Rock RK Sea grass SG Encrusting ENC Silt ST Algae AL Foliaceous FOL Dead coral DC Massive MA Other OT Sub-massive Solitary Laminar Bleached Coral SM SOL LAM BC Results and Discussion Benthic substrate was recorded at 1 metre intervals on 50m transect for four different reefs: Chole Wall and June of 36

12 Milimani (within the Specified Use Zone) and Dinidini and Mikidini (within the Core Zone). For each site within the bay, 6 transects were randomly selected and taken along a shallow contour and 6 along a deep contour, while only 2 transects were taken for the shallow and deep contours outside the bay due to weather conditions this phase. For Chole Wall and Milimani the deep contour was classified as being deeper than 12m deep at the high tide mark, whilst for Dinidini and Mikidini the deep contours were classified as deeper than 20m due to the greater maximum depth at these sites. Although we were unable to collect a full data set for phases 113 and 122 due to inclement weather, preliminary comparisons of percentage coral cover between the core zone and specified use zone can be analysed for phases 114 and 121 ( Figure 6). Figure 6. Comparison of the substrate (average percentage cover) between sites within the core zone and specified use areas. June of 36

13 Comparison of Coral Cover Within Specified Use and Core Zones Average Percentage Cover (%) Foliose Sponges Soft Coral Silt Seagrass Dead Coral Sand Rubble Rock RKC Substrate Catagory Algae Digitate Encrusting Columnar Laminar Submassive Mushroom Massive Branching Tabular Core Zone Specified Use Composition of hard and soft coral varies greatly when comparing inside and outside the bay on account of their different geographical and physiological characteristics. Dinidini and Mikidini have reef top shelves of around 6m deep, descending on steep slopes and walls to 27m. These reefs are visited more regularly by pelagic fish due to their proximity to the open ocean. Milimani and Chole Wall exhibit a great amount of hard coral cover, specifically branching coral, and the sites are shallower, with the reef reaching a maximum depth of 14m. The composition of the benthos at the sites outside the bay and those inside is different across a number of substrate categories: branching corals, soft corals and algae. The sites outside the bay (Core Zone) are located in deeper water and are visited by a greater number of pelagic fish due to their proximity to the open ocean. The currents here can reach much greater speeds than the more sheltered sites inside the bay. This promotes the growth of soft corals, which are more adapted to cope with stronger currents, and will hinder the growth of some hard corals, particularly branching, whose large surface areas make them more susceptible to damage in strong currents. The results show large disparities between branching corals and soft corals between the two areas for this reason. The percentage cover represented by algae is much greater outside the bay rather than inside. It is a common misconception that the presence of high amounts of macroalgae on a reef can be attributed to a struggling and unhealthy reef, although true on occasion. Marcoalgae is very resilient and can prevent the return of corals by shading and overgrowing juveniles. It is also known to destabilize microbial communities and promote coral disease (Hughes et al, 2010). However, visually, the reefs in the Core Zone appear to be extremely healthy, as reflected by the fish abundance surveys. There may be other factors that come into play when comparing the June of 36

14 levels of coral and algae on the reefs, for example, geographical location, variation in reef gradient, exposure, light and depth (Kramer, 2003; Lessios, 1988). The physiological variation between reefs, both on Mafia Island and worldwide, means that there may be no definitive ratio between coral and algal abundance that would define a reef as healthy (Hughes et al, 2010). It should be therefore noted that the status of coral reef systems is regularly measured using a limited number of factors (size and abundance of important taxonomic groups etc). Coral cover however, is not a reliable measure of resilience as, for example, a recovering healthy reef may have substantially less coral than one that is struggling and dominated by macroalgae. Coral cover is not an indicator of reef resilience and it can only become a definitive indicator of phase shifts (when a reef is unable to remain in or return to a coral-dominated state) (Alvarado et al, 2004) if the same site is monitored for many years (Hughes et al, 2010) Recommendations It has become apparent that there has been considerable variability in benthic composition data collected between phases due to the subjectivity of coral form classifications. Figure 7 shows the average percentage of coral cover at Milimani dive site recorded over the course of the last 4 phases based on our visual census data. Our data indicates that percentages of branching, foliose, laminar, and columnar corals have decreased drastically, while percentages of submassive corals have increased. Due to the extremely slow rate of growth of hard corals it is infeasible that the coral composition could have shifted at Milimani over the course of a year. Reasons for this inconsistency could be due to personal subjectivity (volunteers and staff) as well as cross classification of corals that can exist in multiple formations. Figure 7. Variability of substrate classification at Milimani Dive Site from July 2011-June 2012 June of 36

15 Percentage Cover (%) Substrate Classification at Milimani Dive Site Average of Foliose Average of Digitate Average of Encrusting Average of Columnar Average of Laminar Average of Submassive Average of Mushroom Average of Massive Average of Branching Average of Tabular Phase In order to insure more accurate data collection in the future we have indentified and documented the main corals found both inside and outside the bay to species level, and assigned a definite coral form classification. Lectures and benthic tests will be updated so that they reflect the coral form classifications, and can be used as reference for any in discrepancies in the future Invertebrate Survey Introduction This phase we followed on from the findings of last phase and tried to incorporate invertebrates into every underwater survey which took place. Although invertebrates had previously been included on past surveys they were removed in mid 2011 due to time constraints and limited volunteer training. However due to the importance of invertebrates as indicator species of overall reef health it is critical that they are included on our surveys in future. Beside our aim to collect baseline data to monitor changes, we implement education and outreach programmes in the form of volunteer training, trying to cater both objectives at the same. For our purposes, a low resolution survey methodology such as the one utilized by ReefCheck (an international coral reef monitoring organization) would fulfil both of these requirements. However, if we were interested in looking into a more specific issue rather than general monitoring and management based research, we would have to conduct more targeted surveys. In order to ensure that volunteers can be adequately trained to collect consistent data, it was decided that there should simply be 10 pre-selected invertebrates added to our commercial fish and benthic baseline survey methodology. Our goal for this phase was to gather more data through surveys in order to assess the species composition and abundance of indicator species present at our survey sites, as well as the feasibility of adding invertebrates to Frontier s baseline survey protocol. June of 36

16 Methods The methodology for collecting invertebrate data is similar to that of the commercial fish census, where a team of survey divers swims along the transect tape, recording the number of 10 pre-selected invertebrates encountered within a 5m wide band (2.5m either side of the transect tape), ensuring that the entire area is thoroughly searched. These 10 indicator species were taken from the ReefCheck Indo-Pacific survey protocol, however, the list was adapted slightly after analysis of last phase s data in order to better reflect the local conditions. Last phase it was discovered that for every survey, in which invertebrates were included, it would be necessary to add a third diver to the transect. This was due to time restraints on the divers as, if the fish and benthic surveyors were to take on the responsibility, in order to avoid compromising their data, they would need to swim up and down the transect an extra time to record invertebrates Results All twelve invertebrate surveys were conducted at Milimani and ten were completed at Chole Wall this phase, however no surveys were conducted outside the bay due to limited numbers of qualified divers, as well as time restrictions and bad weather. We found that the surveys work well when there are three divers available to take part, so when there are more RAs available and trained up to survey, it should not be a problem to incorporate them. Although we were not able to collect invertebrate data outside the bay, informal visual observations suggest that there are more invertebrates seen at the survey sites Dinidini and Mikadini outside the bay, compared with the relatively few invertebrate species recorded at sites within the bay. Table 4: Invertebrates recorded at Milimani and Chole Wall Species Milimani shallow Milimani Deep Chole Wall Shallow Chole Wall Deep Banded Coral Shrimp Diadema Urchin Other Urchin Other Starfish Sea Cucumber Crown of thorns Triton Spiny Lobster Giant Clam <10 cm 1 June of 36

17 10-20 cm cm cm cm >50 cm Others: Rock Boring Urchins 15 Cowrie Nudibranch Although there were no sea cucumbers, spiny lobsters, or crown of thorns recorded on the surveys, personal observations suggest their presence on the reef. The list of invertebrates to survey this phase seemed a lot more appropriate than the one last phase, having removed categories for Pencil and Collector Urchins and added in categories for Other Urchin and Other Starfish. A high number of Other Starfish were seen, and these were often specified to be Brittle Stars (Ophiuroidea) or Cushion Stars (Asteroidea). Informal visual observations at Dinidini and Mikadini suggest a high abundance of Blackmouth Sea Cucumbers (Pearsonothuria graeffei) as well as Rock-Boring Urchins (Echinometra mathaei) Discussion and Recommendations This phase, we were not able to perform any analysis on the invertebrate data outside the bay this phase due to constraints on the number of dives we were able to perform and the time we could spend underwater. However, our observations showed that there seemed to be an increase in the abundance of invertebrates outside the bay compared to sites inside the bay, as well as a drastic difference in species composition. Because of these differences, it is important that invertebrates be included on future surveys in order to better understand and analyse this trend. Also, due to the numbers of Brittle Stars and Cushion Stars recorded this phase, we are adding them to the list of species we will survey next phase. Brittle Stars in particular are a useful indicator species as they require an oxygen rich environment, so if the population drops, it is a sign that their habitat is polluted and unhealthy. See below the list of invertebrates which we will survey next phase (TZM123). Banded Coral Shrimp Diadema Urchin Other Urchin Sea Cucumber Crown of thorns Other starfish Cushion Star June of 36

18 Brittle Star Triton Spiny Lobster Giant Clam <10 cm cm cm cm cm >50 cm 3.5. Commercial Fish Surveys Introduction Marine protected areas (MPA s) are a relatively new movement in conservation. MPA s can range from strict no take zones to communally managed multi use parks. Multi user marine parks aim to conserve resources and biodiversity and also improve local fisheries and livelihoods. Successful MPA s have increased abundance and biomass of targeted species (Lester 2009) increased fish recruitment (Evans et al 2008), and migration of adults into neighbouring areas (Jupiter and Egli 2010). At the 2003 World Parks Conference in Durban, Tanzania pledged to have 10% of its marine area under conservation by 2012, and 20% by 2025 (Ruitenbeek 2005). Tanzania currently has 12.5% of its coastal waters under some form of protection (World Bank 2008). MIMP was established in 1995 as Tanzania s first multi-user zone marine park. With 14 villages and over 18,000 people living within the new park boundaries, it was clear from the onset that the community would need to be involved and benefit from the park for conservation of marine resources to be successful (Mafia Island Marine Park General Management Plan, 2000). Within the park a zoning policy was developed with three zones; Core Zone, restricted use zone, and general use zone. Within the Core Zones there is no resource extraction but diving and research are permitted, within Specified Use zones there is no pull net fishing allowed and no fishing by non-residents, and within general use zones national regulations apply and non-residents require a permit to undertake activities within the park. An important practical indicator of the MIMP success is maintaining the health of its fisheries. Maintaining the fisheries can provide an indicator of overall community health and is also important to the local people, whose livelihoods depend on marine resources. MIMP and Frontier have developed a proposal to monitor fisheries in the different zones of the marine park. The aim of conducting commercial fish surveys is to assess the abundance, species richness and size of commercial fish within Chole Bay. This phase has seen the commencement of monitoring sites within two different zones of the park which will hopefully enable us to June of 36

19 analyse the influence of protection on the size and abundance of commercially important fish within the park Methodology RAs were trained through a series of lectures and fish points to identify a total of 56 commercial fish species or families (Appendix 1). The species list of commercial fish species was compiled from species commonly targeted and caught by fishermen in the local area. RAs were required to sit tests in identification until a 95% mark was reached in order to ensure consistency with regards to the quality of data being collected and standard surveyor identification. 96 surveys were intended to be conducted in total at the four study sites, with transects divided into two depth contours: shallower depths at the top of the reefs, and the outer reef slope at deeper depths. Whilst all surveys this phase were completed in the Specified Use zone (12 point counts and transects each at the Milimani and Chole Wall site), the TZM team were able to complete one full day of surveying for the sites located in the Core Zone of the park (Only 8 surveys in total were completed at the Dinidini and Mikadini sites). The reasons for this were bad weather, as the southern Kusi winds had begun around May, and conditions became too dangerous to complete surveys. SCUBA buddy teams descended at each site and began the survey on either the outer reef slope or top reef; all transects were separated by a minimum 1 minute swim. Fish were either surveyed along a 50 meter transect using Underwater Visual Census (UVC) 2.5 meters on all sides of the transect line, or using point counts. The observer would remain at a fixed point and record all fish within a 10m sphere around them. Fish were identified to family or species level (Appendix 1) and placed into 10cm size categories. For the UVS method, one surveyor rolled out the transect line, maintaining constant speed and depth, whilst following the reef contour while the other recorded fish abundance and size categories on a pre drawn dive slate. Point count methods based on Watson and Quinn (1997) were also used at both sites to estimate fish abundance of the same commercial fish species. This involved the observer descending to mid water column and spending 10 minutes at a fixed point on either the shallow back reef, or deeper outer reef, whilst recording fish abundance and size categories within a 10m sphere around the diver. Point counts were used to more efficiently record larger, more pelagic schooling fish that might not necessarily be recorded by the UVS transect method Results This phase saw a continuation of our efforts to compare fish size and abundance within the two protection levels of the park, with the main focus of analysis on the most important commercial fish amongst those we surveyed. These fish families include Emperors, Groupers, Parrotfish, Rabbitfish, Snappers, Sweetlips, Trevallies and Unicornfish, thought to be the most frequently caught by artisanal fishing techniques, based on observations of the team, and discussion with the MIMP research team. All fish featured in our commercial fish June of 36

20 list (Appendix 1) were recorded during the surveys, however this phase statistical analyses of these species was largely based on the those mentioned above. This phase also allowed us to review temporal changes in fish counts and sizes, as we now had 4 phases worth of data using the same methodology on commercial fish. During this phase, we had not monitored the same four sites each phase due to constraints with the weather and our decision to change some of the sites because of their suitability for surveying. That said, we do have now one year s worth of data for the Milimani site, which is the main focus of analysis for this report. Within MIMP there are 3 protection categories: core, specified use, and general. The protection zones differ in the type of equipment allowed for fishing, with no fishing allowed in the Core Zone. In the Specified Use Zone, fishing is primarily restricted to hand lines, with nets, traps and spear guns. With the assistance of MIMP, we were able to survey two sites (Dinidini and Mikadini) within the Core Zone of the park. This would allow the comparison of data we collected this phase at the Specified Use zones (Milimani and Chole Wall). We expected to see a higher abundance and size of fish in the Core Zone of the park, given that fishing is- theoreticallybanned in this area and is labelled as no take zone. Our findings may be useful to assess whether the different zones of the park were being protected efficiently, as little difference between the dataset might indicate that the differences in protection made no difference to the abundance and size of the commercial fish species that we studied. With the current data set we have, we were able to compile fish counts and sizes for commercial species across the last four phases. Figure 8 represents the average count of individuals across several commercial families recorded along 50m transects at the Milimani site in the Specified Use Zone, throughout the last four phases. Figure 8 Commercial fish abundance over the last four phases for selected commercial fish families at the Milimani site using 50m transects. Whilst total fish counts over the last four phases seem to vary little amongst most of the selected commercial June of 36

21 fish species, there are several notable exceptions. Rabbitfish numbers varied from almost 120 individuals recorded during in phase 114, to almost 40 in phase 122. Unicornfish recordings also fluctuated, from just over 10 individuals in phase 113, to 110 in phase 114. Variations in Sweetlips numbers was also interesting, as abundance ranged from over 50 in phase 113 to none at all, being recorded in phase 122. Whilst the graph reveals that there were fluctuations in total abundance of the mentioned commercial fish families, one way ANOVA statistical analysis (p<0.05) revealed that none of these variations were statistically significant, apart from Snappers (U=0.015), whose abundance was highest in phase 121, and lowest in 122. Tests across all species recorded during our surveys reveal that Butterflyfish numbers were significantly different across phases (U=0.018), with the abundance peaking in phase 114. Comparing average sizes of selected commercial fish recorded within the bay also reveals several fluctuations. Figure 9 represents the average size category recorded for selected commercial fish species over the last four phases. Average fish sizes recorded were fairly consistent for Groupers, Parrotfish, Snappers and Unicornfish over the four phases, however there were large differences in the sizes of Sweetlips and Rabbitfish recorded. Average Rabbitfish size recordings fluctuated from size category 2 (10 20cm) in phases 113 and 122, to size category 5 (40 50cm) in phase 114. Also of interesting note is that across the seven selected commercial fish families, average fish sizes peaked for 5 of those families during phase 114. Kruskal Wallis one way analysis of variance tests (p<0.05) revealed that Snappers were again the only commercial family with any statistically significant differences in size between the four phases (U= 0.027), with average size peaking in phase 114. Figure 9 - Average size category for individual fish families at Milimani site, using 50m transects Commercial Fish Results Discussions and Recommendations June of 36

22 The aim for the data collected over the past year on commercial fish numbers and size over the past year in the Chole Bay area was to compare characteristics of fish in different management zones of the park, in order to review the efficiency of the Marine Park policies, and to be able to monitor fish community composition, as well as benthic coverage and invertebrate numbers. Whilst data has been collected for the last four phases using the same methodology, it is difficult to make comparisons between the two management zones surveyed (Specified Use and Core Zone) because of difficulties that have led us to changing our dive sites within those two zones for this period. Whilst the site of Milimani in the Specified Use zone has been surveyed over the last four phases, all other sites have been surveyed a maximum of twice over the past year. This was due to decisions made at the beginning of phase 121 to change the dive sites so as to have a more accurate reflection of the characteristics of biodiversity within that zone, and also our inability to reach certain sites at times of the year due to bad weather conditions. For these reasons, discussion for this phase has concentrated mainly on the analysis of fish assemblages at the Milimani site over the past four phases, the only site with a complete data set for the last four phases. Fish assemblages on coral reefs are known to naturally vary throughout the year based on several factors that include lunar cycles, feeding activities, and seasonal recruitment (Galvin 1987, Williams 1983). Whilst only two fish families that were recorded at the Milimani site over the past four phases (Snappers and Butterflyfish) displayed statistically significant differences in abundance, there were still large fluctuations for some species observed during 50m transects. The absence of some fish such as Sweetlips for certain phases (whilst being recorded in high abundance for the other 3) suggests that there are natural variations for the abundance of some fish species within Chole Bay. Regarding the Milimani site, there are several factors that might explain why some species were more abundant during certain phases and less in others. A study by Galzin (1987) analysed temporal variations in reef fish for French Polynesian coral reefs over daily, monthly and yearly cycles. They found that there were significant differences in fish community composition at each temporal scale. Fish abundance over monthly periods tended to be related to lunar cycles, with the maximum during the period of the last quarter and full moon. On a seasonal scale, fish assemblages were influenced by weather conditions between the wet, dry, and intermediate seasons. In addition, there were significant differences in fish community composition between each year of the study. Although our data analysis was not focused on comparisons within monthly cycles (because of the quarterly nature of our data collection), we can still make comparisons of the seasonal variations at this site. In Tanzania the wet season commences around from around March until the beginning of June. Phase 122 can, therefore, be considered to occur during the majority of the rainy season. The windy Kusi season occurs between the months of July and September, which was for the duration of phase 113. Both phase 114 and phase 121 can be considered relatively dry, calm intermediate seasons (short rains are however experienced around November and December- phase 114). Average fish counts across all species recorded revealed that the phase with the highest totals was phase 122, during the wettest season. Explanations for variations between seasons have been theorised as due to changes to factors such as salinity, temperature and nutrients (Galvin 1987). Whilst these factors were not measured on our surveys, we would expect to see fluctuations in all three over the course of the different phases, and therefore June of 36

23 these might be one explanation for the variation between fish assemblages across each phase. There are several factors that could explain the lack of consistency in abundance amongst fish assemblages for our data. Fish abundance fluctuates on a daily basis based on feeding activities, as numbers tend to be higher during times when fish are more active. Reef fish tend to be more active during the hours before and after sunrise and sunset. Ideally, our study would have conducted all transects within an hour or so of these times in order to record the maximum number of fish, however this was impossible for our study due because we had to plan our dives for slack tide each day. If we were to miss the slack tide, currents would be too high and we would be unable to complete our surveys. For this reason, our surveys were not conducted at a consistent time of day each time, and, therefore, at different times of feeding activity for the fish species. This might have resulted in the fluctuations recorded in fish assemblages on a monthly basis between fish families. Another explanation for the variation between phases might be in the differences in accuracy of the researchers collecting the data. Due to the nature of our research program, our researchers change every phase, with different volunteers and staff participating in data collection. Whilst we strive to ensure that all researchers are trained a 95% accuracy level to identify fish species and families in our selected commercial fish list, there are still going to be errors due to human judgement. Accuracy of volunteers will alternate as some will have more experience in underwater fish identification that others, and surveys performed by those that have completed the surveys on a prolonged, regular basis would expect to be more accurate than a newcomer. These factors might also help to explain the variations recorded in some fish assemblages between phases. Whilst the data set might not be as complete as we would have likeed this phase (due to changes in our dive sites and difficulties in accessing our sites), we believe that the current methodology and sites selected are now suitable for long term monitoring of fish, benthic and invertebrate assemblages in the bay. The selected sites of Milimani and Chole Wall within the Specified Use zone are sites which can be easily accessed for monitoring, and also both represent the typical characteristics of sites within this zone. In the Core zone, the sites of Dinidini and Mikadini are also sites which represent the characteristics of sites within this zone, and weather conditions permitting, are accessible for most of the year. Continuing monitoring of these four sites using the same methodology should guarantee the opportunity to compare benthic compositions, fish communities and invertebrate numbers between the two zones. Obtaining this information on a quarterly basis will also allow analysis of temporal changes in the sites of monthly and yearly cycles. This information could be used to monitor the impact of fishing practices on the reefs within the marine park, and also to suggest changes in management strategy to the Marine Park personnel Hippopotamus Conservation and Ecotourism Project The island of Mafia has a small population of Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibious) which inhabit a network of lagoons in an inland area in the Northwest of the island. It is believed from local sources that the hippos migrated to Mafia Island after a flood in the Rufiji Delta 100 years ago, however due to the difficulty of June of 36

24 monitoring a nocturnal semi-aquatic mammal, there is very limited information on the current population, including its size. Although the population size has not been accurately recorded it has been estimated at individuals by the TZM team. Whilst the hippopotamus has an extensive range across Africa, it is highly vulnerable to local extinction due primarily to habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as hunting for meat, and persecution due to conflict with people. Based on the estimated global population, and current threats the hippopotamus was recognized as vulnerable on the IUCN Red list in On Mafia the primary threat to the hippopotamus population is caused by persecution due to human wildlife conflict and crop damage. In phase 113 a project was initiated with the aims of protecting the remaining hippopotamus population while at the same time improving the livelihoods of the local communities by means of an ecotourism project. Meetings were held with several villages in the area to find a suitable community that would be willing to start an ecotourism board to run a project to take tourists to visit the lagoons, with a small fee from the tourists going towards the community in order to build fences and ditches to protect crops from damage. The village of Gonge was selected amongst the 4 that were approached as they had a high population of hippos compared to the others and also appeared the most positive about the project. Subsequently, several meetings were held with the village to advise them on the best way to set up a tourism board, which would administrate and manage the project. Objectives of the Project To obtain baseline data on the Mafia Island hippopotamus population including assessments of the health and size of the population as well as distribution and movement patterns. To initiate an ecotourism project to serve as an incentive to protect the hippopotamus while at the same time providing an opportunity to improve the livelihood of the villagers. To use funds derived from the ecotourism project to build ditches or fences to protect the villager s crops from hippo damage. This phase numerous meetings were held with the District Council and local village council in Gonge the meetings aim to discuss the feasibility of setting up the tourism board and ecotourism project. In February the village council approved the creation of the tourism board, and a workshop was held in Gonge in order to introduce the project and roles and responsibilities of the newly formed board Work done in phase 122 Work on the Gonge project this phase has encountered several difficulties. The first being that Adriana Puente who was previously in charge of this project had to depart the TZM program in late March, and therefore June of 36

25 responsibilities were passed on to OJ and VH. Before AP s departure, a meeting was held with the Gonge tourist board about the next step for the project. The TZM staff wanted the tourism board to continue their English and guide training, and because we were unable to reach Gonge site on a regular basis due to the distances involved and our budgetary constraints. The group agreed to try and come to the camp on a monthly basis in order to receive training and any other assistance required for the project, with all transport costs covered by income received from tourists. The first meeting was scheduled for mid April, however had to be rescheduled several times due to TZM s commitments to the Kitomondo Secondary School. The rescheduled date was then cancelled as it turned out that several members of the tourism board would be unavailable, and has subsequently left their responsibilities on the tourism board. Due to these reasons, and the fact that there have been very few tourists on the island to help generate interest in the project, TZM decided to continue work with the Gonge tourism board during the inter phase of 122, in order to be in a strong position for the Gonge group to receive tourists when they start to arrive in the beginning of July Whale Shark Project In phase 113, Frontier TZM started work in collaboration with the tourist group Whale Shark Safaris, in order to devise a monitoring program to collect data on whale sharks on Mafia Island. Whale Shark Safaris take tourists staying on the island to go and see whale sharks when they are present on the island, and our aims were to train their staff in order to collect data whilst on their excursions with tourists. Workshops and training sessions were held with the group in order to help the group collect data on the size, sex and characteristics of the whale sharks, and a data sheet was composed to be able to collect data effectively. In early 122, TZM received an offer from WWF Tanzania to submit a proposal for a year-long detailed study of whale sharks. Working together with Sam Lloyd from LHQ, the TZM team submitted a proposal (see Appendix). The aim of our proposal was to use simple, cost- effective methods to deduce the reasons for the high whale shark abundance throughout the year in the Kilindoni bay area. The group proposed to work together with Whale Shark Safaris, using their boat and personnel, in order to collect data on whale sharks twice a week throughout the year. The group would also collect physical data of sea conditions and plankton samples, in order to deduce the reasons why whale sharks appeared in large numbers at certain points of the year. The group also intended to work together with the local District Council and Fishing Associations, in order to increase protection for the whale sharks, and to find out their main threats. On 14 th of June, the TZM program received notification their application was unsuccessful, however plans are in place to continue the work we have been doing with the Whale Shark Safari team and the District Council Kitomondo Secondary School Project In mid 114, OJ arranged a meeting with the Kitomondo primary school with the intention of inviting several students from Form 1 (around years of age) to form an environmental group that would meet at the Frontier camp every two weeks. They would learn about environmental issues and participate in activities. The June of 36

26 sessions held would include lessons or a lecture on a certain subject while participating in an activity such as snorkelling, visiting a local ecosystem, or watching an educational film. After discussing with several teachers from the school, they selected 9 students (5 girls and 4 boys) from different villages on the island, and OJ went to meet them to discuss the logistics of setting up such a group. The first meeting was scheduled for Sunday the 13 th of November, where all of the students were able to attend, and a get to know each other on camp. The inductor meeting was followed by a talk on Mangroves, and a visit to the mangroves on the beach of Utende. Following the success of this first session, it was followed up by sessions every fortnight since, with one lesson being held on Coral Reefs and the other on Sea Grass, which also included a discover snorkelling session at the local beach. This phase, lessons have been focused on two themes: the anthropogenic effects on the marine environment, and Marine Protected Areas. Lectures have been given on Overfishing, Pollution, Climate Change, and MPAs, whilst activates have included; visiting the MIMP office, watching an educational documentary on Climate Change, and visiting the local beach to do a cleanup. In January of phase 121, Frontier TZM applied for the Kitomondo Group to enter the Volvo Environmental Leaders Award, organised by Volvo and held in Gothenburg, Sweden every year. The Awards are for environmental groups of students aged 13-16, and each year 10 groups from around the world are selected to compete in the finals, whereby the top 3 teams will receive further funding for their project. OJ and WCJ wrote a proposal at the end of the month that explained the aims of the group. In March of this phase, we found out that our group had been accepted, and was selected as one of the 10 teams to attend the finals. 5 students, OJ and one member of staff from the Kitomondo School planned travel to Sweden from June 1 to June 6 th to present their project in front of the panel, and the hope of finishing in the top 3. OJ and the Kitomondo group made preparations to attend the awards in phase 122, which included completing passport and visa applications in Dar Es Salaam, holding several awareness raising days in schools on the island, and preparing a presentation to be given to the judging panel of the Volvo Awards. Passports and visas applications were completed in Dar Es Salaam in the beginning of April, when OJ and the accompanying teacher from Kitomondo School (Beda Urassa) took the 5 selected students for 4 days. Whilst there, the group visited the Immigration Department in order to start the process of passport applications, and the Swedish Embassy for Schengen Visa applications. The group managed to complete all applications before their departure, and would be able to pick up their passports and visas before they left for Sweden on the 30 th of May. To boost their chances of success at the Awards, the group held several awareness raising events at different schools, in order to take pictures to include in the presentation they would be showing the judging panel. These days were held first at the Utende Primary School, where the group prepared a one and a half hour event where they performed plays, played music, and played games with the local students. The days were intended to spread the message of environmental conservation using entertaining means to reach a young audience. The plays and games focused on local flagship species such as whale sharks and hippos. Another day June of 36

27 was held at the Kitomondo Secondary School, one week later, with the same event held. A third day was planned for Kilindoni square; however the group had to postpone this date until after they returned from Sweden. Whilst rehearsing the events, the group also had to prepare a 5 minute presentation that each group would give to the judges of the Volvo Awards, The team left for Dar Es Salaam on the 31 st of May, and boarded a plane for Sweden on the same evening, arriving in Gothenburg on the 1 st of June, where they would be based for the Awards. All teams stayed at a hotel in the city centre, and for the next five days would attend several activities together, including workshops and lectures from environmentalists. The groups also had the opportunity to visit an amusement park, a museum, and a local secondary school. On the third day, all groups completed their presentations in front of the other groups and the judging panel. At the awards ceremony the next day, the group were unfortunately not selected in the top three, however all judges said that they were impressed with the work the group have been doing. The group intends to continue work with the Kitomondo students upon their return, and will continue to hold awareness raising events and other activities across the island. Plate 1. Pictures of work with the Kitomondo School students this phase Awareness raising day at Utende Primary School Performing plays about whale sharks and hippos at Utende Primary School June of 36

28 The group at the Volvo Awards 2012 in Gothenburg, Sweden 3.9. MIMP Newsletter Several months ago, after discussions with some of the local tourist lodges who stated that they were not aware of the work that MIMP was carrying out. There is already a newsletter for the Tanzania MPRU organisation (the governing body for MIMP). However, it was felt that a specific newsletter for the island would be very helpful in improving the communication and transparency between MIMP, local communities and tourists. Frontier TZM discussed with the Warden In Charge about the possibility of starting a newsletter that could be distributed to the lodges and local communities alike, to share the news of MIMPs work on the island. The Warden was enthusiastic about the idea, and Frontier staff set about planning the possibilities for implementing such a publication. It was decided that a short quarterly newsletter would be the most practical, with brief stories about MIMP s work and the work of its partners. The newsletter would be written in English June of 36

29 and Swahili, the team agreed to let Frontier staff write and design the first edition with input from MIMP staff, and then would assume an assisting editor role for future publications. In January and February, OJ and JP helped to design a template for the newsletter, and write the articles that would feature in the newsletter. Stories were written on subjects such as MIMP staff attending international conferences, the distribution of MIMP entrance fees to local community projects, and the success of the Environmental Ambassador group in the Volvo Awards. In early April, the newsletter was distributed to lodges and tourist destinations on the island, and several hard copies were printed out, however due to budget restrictions at MIMP, they were unable to print out a substantial amount to be sent out to communities across the island. This phase, MIMP staff have been attempting to secure advertising for the newsletter, in order to print out high quality newsletter than could be distributed on a large scale. A second newsletter has also commenced production which should feature articles about the Environmental Ambassadors experiences in Sweden and a contribution from the turtle NGO Sea Sense, and should be produced in early July. 4. Proposed work programme for next phase The proposed work programme for TZM during phase 122 includes: Continue collecting long term commercial fish data on reefs within MIMP, in Core and Specified Use Zones Re-establish links with Gonge village and ecotourism council regarding the hippo project and ensure the continuation of the project. Continue work with Kitomondo students to hold awareness raising days on the island, as well as lessons every two weeks. Oversee production of the MIMP newsletter for the second quarter June of 36

30 5. References Unsworth RKF, Powell A, Hukon F, Smith DJ The ecology of Indo-Pacific grouper (Serranidae) species and the effects of a small scale no take area on grouper assemblage, abundance and size frequency. Marine Biology. Wantiez L, Thollot P, Kulbicki M Effects of marine reserves on coral reefs fish communities from five islands in New Caledonia. Coral Reefs. 16: Sealey K, Rahming T and Rolle M Size, sex ration and fecundity of Nassau Grouper (Epinephelus striatus) Landed during spawning season in the central Bahamas. Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institue, Chabanet P, Ralambondrainy H, Amanieu M, Faure G, Galzin R. (1997) Relationships between coral reef substrata and fish. Coral Reefs; 16(2): Lieske, E. & Myers, R. (2001). Coral reef fishes, indo-pacific and Caribbean. Collins Pocket Guide, Harper Collins, London, 400pp. Muthiga,N, Bigot,L. and Nilsson,A East Africa: coral reef programs of eastern Africa and the Western Indian Ocean. Richmond, M.D. (ed.) 2002 A field Guide to the seashores of eastern Africa and the western Indian ocean islands. Sida/SARED, UDSM, 461pp. R. D. Evans, G. R. Russ, and J. P. Kritzer. Batch fecundity of Lutjanus carponotatus (Lutjanidae) and implications of no take marine reserves on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Coral Reefs, vol. 27, no. 1, pp , 2008 S. E. Lester, B. S. Halpern, K. Grorud-Colvert et al. Biological effects within no-take marine reserves: a global synthesis. Marine Ecology Progress Series, vol. 384, pp , 2009 Jupiter, S., Egli, D. Ecosystem based management in Fiji: success and challenges after five years of implementation. Journal of Marine Biology. Vol Ruitenbeek. J, Hewawasam. I, and Ngoile. M, Blueprint 2050: Sustaining the marine environment in mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar IBRD/ World Bank, Washington, DC. pp 125 Watson, R., Quinn, T Performance of transect point count and underwater visual census methods. Ecological Modelling 104, Hill, J, and Wilkinson C Methods for ecological monitoring of coral reefs. Australian Institute for Marine Science, Townsville Roberts C,M, Ormond R,F,G Habitat complexity and coral reef fish diversity and abundance on Red Sea fringing reefs. Mar Ecol Prog Ser 41:1 8 Samoilys, M.A., & Carlos, A Determining methods of underwater visual census for estimating the abundance of coral reef fishes. Environmental Biology of Fishes 57: , Melita A. Samoilysa & Gary Carlos Alvarado, J.J. et al. (2004) Population densities of Diadema antillarum Philippi at Cahuita national park ( ), Costa Rica. Caribb. J. Sci. 40, Done, T.J. (1997) Four performance indicators for integrated reef resources management. Workshop on Integrated Reef Resources Management in the Maldives 1997: June of 36

31 Hill, J, and Wilkinson C Methods for ecological monitoring of coral reefs. Australian Institute for Marine Science, Townsville Terry P. Hughes, Nicholas A.J. Graham, Jeremy B.C. Jackson2, Peter J. Mumby and Robert S. Steneck (2012) Rising to the challenge of sustaining coral reef resilience Kramer, P.A. et al. (2003) Assessment of the Andros Island Reef System, Bahamas (Part 1: stony corals and algae). Atoll Res. Bull. 496, Lessios, H.A. (1988) Mass mortality of Diadema antillarum in the Caribbean - what have we learned? Annu. Rev. Ecol. Syst. 19, Mrowicki, R.J., & Fanning, E. (2008) Benthic community structure and sea urchin distribution. The Bay of Diego- Suarez Hammitt WE and Cole DN (1998) Wildland Recreation: Ecology and Management, 2nd ed. Wiley, New York. Norman B (2000) Rhincodon typhus IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Potenski MD (2008) Shark Research Institute Operation Whale Shark Mafia Island, Tanzania, Nov March 2008 Report of Field Research & Supplemental Work Rowat D, Meekan MG, Engelhardt U, Pardigon B, Vely M (2006) Aggregations of juvenile whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) in the Gulf of Tadjoura, Djibouti Ziegler J, Dearden P, Rollins R (2011) But are tourists satisfied? Importance-performance analysis of the whale shark tourism industry on Isla Holbox, Mexico June of 36

32 Appendix 1 Commercial fish list used for surveys Common name Latin name Common name Latin name GROUPER Serranidae SPINECHEEK Nemipteridae Peacock Grouper Cephalophoilis argus Thumbprint Spinecheek Scolopsis bimaculatus CoralHind Grouper Cephalophoilis miniata Arabian Spinecheek Scolopsis Ghanam Giant Grouper Epinephelus lanceolatus Thumbprint Spinecheek Scolopsis bimaculatus Potato Grouper Epinephelus tukula Goatfish Mullidae Sixspot Grouper Cephalopholis sexmaculata Longbarbel Goatfish Parupeneus macronema Whitespotted Grouper Epinephelus caeruleopunctatus Dash and Dot Goatfish Parupeneus barberinus Saddleback CoralGrouper Plectropomus laevis Yellowsaddle Goatfish Parupeneus cyclostomus Brown Marbled Triggerfish Balistidae CoralGrouper Plectropomus punctatus Redmouth grouper Aethaloperca rogaa Titan/Moustache Triggerfish Balistoides viridescens Other Grouper Any other grouper species Halfmoon Triggerfish Sufflamen chrysopterus SNAPPER Lutjanidae Orange Striped Triggerfish Balistapus undulates Twinspot Snapper Lutjanus bohar Clown Triggerfish Balistoides conspicillum Black Snapper Macolor niger Redtooth Triggerfish Odonus niger Blackspot Snapper Lutjanus ehrenbergi/fulviflamma Picasso Triggerfish Rhinecanthus aculeatus Bluelined Snapper Lutjanus kasmira Yellow Margin Triggerfish Pseudobalistes flavimarginatus Paddletail Snapper Lutjuanus gibbus Blue triggerfish Pseudobalistes fuscus Other Snapper Any other snapper species Other triggerfish Any other triggerfish SWEETLIPS Haemulidae Barracuda Sphyraenidae Goldspotted Sweetlips Plectorhinchus flavomaculatus Great Barracuda Sphyraena barracuda Blackspotted Sweetlips Pectorhinchus gaterinus Blackfin Barracuda Sphyraena qenie Slatey Sweetlips Diagramma pictum Yellowfin Barracuda Sphyraena flavicauda Black Sweetlips Plectorhinchus sordidus Rabbitfish Siganidae Oriental Sweetlips Plectorhinchus orientalis Goatfish Whitebarred Sweetlips Plectorhinchus playfairi Fusiliers Caesionidae RAYS Batoidea Jacks / Trevally Carangidae Bluespotted Ribbontail Ray Taeniura lymma Parrotfish Scaridae Bluespotted Stingray Dasyatis kuhlii Surgeonfish Acanthuridae Giant Reef Ray Taeniura melanospilos Needlefish Belonidae Manta Ray Manta birostris Halfbeak Hemiramphidae Eagle Ray Myliobatidae Butterflyfish Chaedontidae EMPEROR Lethrinidae Angelfish Pomacanthidae Spangled Emperor Blackspot Emperor Longface Emperor Bigeye Emperor Other Emperor Lethrinus nebulosus Lethrinus harak Lethrinus olivaceus Monotaxis grandoculis Any other emperor species Unicornfish Naso June of 36

33 Appendix 2. Extract of WWF Whale Shark Proposal STUDY OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS INFLUENCING WHALE SHARK OCCURRENCE & MOVEMENTS IN MAFIA ISLAND, TANZANIA APRIL The Society for Environmental Exploration Frontier Tanzania Marine & The University of Dar Es Salaam June of 36