Coral Reef Conservation in Fiji

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Questions and Answers

What is a significant human cause contributing to coral reef destruction in Fiji?

Growing seabed vegetation

Natural cyclones damaging the reefs

Over-fishing practices (correct)

Coral being used for scientific research

How does rising sea temperature affect coral reefs during an El Niño event?

It lowers the likelihood of cyclones

It enhances fish diversity

It causes algae in corals to die (correct)

It increases coral growth rates

What role do coral reefs play in protecting the land in Fiji?

They stabilize the seabed to prevent erosion

They filter pollutants from water

They act as barriers to storm waves (correct)

They provide habitat for agricultural species

What consequence results from excessive sediment and sewage runoff into coral reefs?

Harmful impacts on coral health Signup and view all the answers

Which organism is known to increase in number due to agricultural runoff affecting coral reefs?

Crown of Thorns starfish Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary environmental benefit of Fiji's coral reefs?

They act as breeding grounds for marine life Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributes directly to coral bleaching in Fiji?

Loss of algae due to heat Signup and view all the answers

Why are coral reefs considered ecologically important in Fiji?

They sustain a high level of biodiversity Signup and view all the answers

What primary role do coral reefs play in Fiji's economy?

They provide opportunities for both subsistence and commercial fishing. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the conservation practices implemented by The Hide-away Resort in Fiji?

Limiting contact with coral by prohibiting feet on the reef. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a pressure faced by coral reefs worldwide?

Invasive species introduction Signup and view all the answers

How is Fiji's Coral Coast significant in the context of coral reefs?

It is fringed with the world's second-largest reef. Signup and view all the answers

What cultural significance do the reefs hold for the local people of Fiji?

They are the focus of ceremonies to express gratitude. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'P' shape on the top of the reef walk markers signify?

The sides of the path to walk on. Signup and view all the answers

What impact does over-fishing have on coral reefs?

It leads to species imbalance in marine life. Signup and view all the answers

Why are coral reefs critical for marine biodiversity?

They comprise a small fraction of the ocean yet harbor a significant fish harvest. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Coral Reef Conservation in Fiji

Fiji has been struggling to conserve its coral reefs for the past 20 years.
Two-thirds of the reefs are considered at risk.
The coral reefs are of significant environmental and economic importance to Fiji.

Human Impacts on Coral Reefs

Overfishing and boat/anchor damage have negatively impacted the reefs.
Fiji used to be a major exporter of coral and fish for aquariums.
Tourist activity, including walking on the reefs and diving/snorkeling, has caused damage.
Rapid population growth in coastal areas has increased the amount of pollutants entering the reefs.

Natural Impacts on Coral Reefs

Cyclones cause destructive waves that damage the reefs every 3-4 years.
Cyclones bring in nitrates and phosphates from agricultural runoff, which increases the number of Crown-of-Thorns starfish that feed on coral polyps.
El Niño events cause warmer water temperatures, leading to coral bleaching.
Bleaching causes the death of algae that live with the polyps, leaving the coral white and eventually causing the polyps to die as well.
Lower salinity levels also contribute to coral bleaching.

Significance of Coral Reefs to Fiji

Coral reefs boast high biodiversity with over 300 species of coral and 2,000 species of fish.
They provide vital protection from storm waves.
The reef ecosystem is being researched as a potential source of new medicines.
The reefs are critical to Fiji's economy through fishing and tourism.
Coral reefs hold deep cultural significance for the Fijian people, and traditional practices once helped regulate their use.

The Hide-away Resort Conservation Efforts

The resort promotes awareness about the importance of the reef, and provides educational opportunities for visitors.
The area directly in front of the resort is a protected zone with restricted access.
Snorkeling is allowed at high tide, but walking on the coral is prohibited.
A designated reef path is provided for guided walks.
Visitors can observe marine life from a glass-bottomed boat.
A coral nursery is maintained in the lagoon to cultivate and protect coral.
Notices throughout the resort remind visitors about the importance of coral reef conservation.

Threats to Coral Reefs Globally

Coastal development
Pollution
Sedimentation
Overfishing
Walking on the reef
Natural disasters
Eutrophication

Eutrophication Impacts

Eutrophication is an enrichment of water bodies with nutrients, leading to excessive algal growth and the depletion of oxygen.
This process disrupts the delicate balance of the reef ecosystem, causing significant harm.

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Description

Explore the challenges and strategies for conserving coral reefs in Fiji, which have faced significant threats from human activities and natural events. Learn about the impacts of overfishing, tourism, and environmental changes on these vital ecosystems. Understand the importance of coral reefs for both the environment and the economy of Fiji.