Publications

Assessing the impact of stony coral tissue loss disease on coral cover on Bonaire’s Leeward side

Pepe, Bernardo A.; Van der Roest, Viggo; Vlam, Olivier; Nouse, Sam; Meesters, Erik

Summary

The effects of stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) in the Dutch Caribbean,
specifically in Bonaire, have not been documented since its first sighting in March
2023. By comparing the results of the 2023 surveys with data from previous
surveys conducted over the past 9 years, this study quantifies the overall decline
in coral cover and investigates the spatial variability of SCTLD’s impact across
different subregions of the reef on the leeward side of Bonaire. In the year 2023, a
crucial period in the initial phase of the progression of SCTLD, significant
reduction in coral coverage was observed, with six key reef-building coral
species showing significant vulnerability. Importantly, this research identifies
specific subregions that have been disproportionately affected. The insights
gained from this study are important for the potential development of specific
conservation and restoration strategies for Bonaire, underscoring the necessity
for ongoing ecosystem monitoring to safeguard the future of highly sensitive
coral reefs in a changing ocean. By advancing our understanding of SCTLD
dynamics, this research contributes to the global effort to preserve coral reef
ecosystems in the face of emerging coral diseases