Abstract

Old Providence atoll is part of the San Andres Archipelago and constitutes the central section of the SeaFlower marine protected area (MPA), one of the largest MPA in the Americas. This elongated atoll covers an area of 255 km2 and has well developed reef habitats, including an extensive barrier reef (35~ km2) as well other leeward, windward and lagoonal environments. Among the seven major habitat types identified, coral cover and coral species richness is highest at coral patches. Fish biomass is also high in coral patches, with larger biomass composed mainly by herbivores, thus representing one of the most productive and complex habitat types. Unfortunately, high water temperatures registered in 2005 resulted in coral bleaching and other coral disease such as white plague, particularly at coral patches. Stressed corals in Old Providence suffer additional damages due to the Hurricane Beta, which crossed its northern end in October 27-28, 2005. Beta was a category one hurricane with 110 km/hour (70 mph) sustained winds and 989 mb of atmospheric pressure. As a consequence, around 20% of the coral colonies at lagoonal coral patches, in the first 5 m depth, were dislodged and fractured and subjected to erosion and up-side down positioning. CORALINA, the MPA manager, with the support of the Ministry of Environment, contracted trained personnel as well as recreational divers and artisanal fishers to conduct a rapid assessment on coral damages and perform coral restoration actions following techniques learned from the Florida Keys National Sanctuary Personnel. A total of 186 coral colonies along seven miles we re-attached and have been monitored every two months. Results have been used in several education activities conducted by CORALINA. This project illustrates the benefits of having trained personnel, the support of the local community and the importance of share experiences with students, all three important aspects needed for MPA implementation

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