Abstract

Three protected backreef embayments on St. Croix's northeast coast were sampled quantitatively to determine species composition and juvenile fish abundance from October 1998 to September 1999. The study sites consisted of Yellowcliff Bay, Teague Bay and Cottongarden Bay. Juvenile reef fish assemblages were monilored using three complementary sampling methods: a visual strip transect census, fish traps and beach seine net. By comparing juvenile fish communities from distinct habitats (patch reef, seagrass, rubble, algal plains, and sand) within the three embayments, significant differences in species richness and abundance of juveniles were identified. Patch reef habitats had more species diversity than any other habitat among the three embayments. Most juvenile fish observed among the sites were scarids, labrids and haemulids. The slippery dick Halichoeres bivittatus, the bucktooth parrotfish Sparisoma radians, the spotted goatfish Pseudupuneus maculatus and Haemulon spp. were among the most abundant species. Preference of nearshore habitats by economically important juvenile reef fishes, suggests a serious concern for habitat conservation.

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