Coral Reef Conservation in Fiji

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.