The coral coast, Viti Levu, Fiji : a marine resource assessment

Abstract

Coral Reefs and their associated habitats are recognised as an extremely important resource throughout the South Pacific region. Fiji is one of the wealthiest countries in the region. This is in part attributable to its biodiverse and productive reef ecosystems, which provide valuable fishery resources, important tourism attractions, as well as protection from storms and coastal erosion. Over recent decades, there has been a glowing realisation of the degradation caused to coral reef environments due to increased coastal development and resource over-utilisation (Hodgeson. 1999). These threats may manifest themselves as increased nutrient enrichment, erosion, siltation. over fishing, destructive fishing, marine pollution, and well as harvest for the aquarium trade. Such impacts, often acting synergistically with natural impacts, can result in a decline in ecosystem productivity and stability. Left unchecked this will ultimately lead to a reduction in income and resources for coastal communities and other stakeholders that rely on fishing and the marine environment.