Coral Reef Monitoring in Mozambique: The Program and 1999 Results

Abstract

Mozambique initiated a Coral Reef Management Programme (MCRMP) in 1998, with the core aim to ensure the long-term sustainable utilization of the coral reef resources of Mozambique. Within the programmed activities, the monitoring of coral reefs is one of the most important. Thus, a long-term monitoring programme was launched in 1999 with most of the monitoring stations being visited in November 1999. Several reefs along the coast were surveyed, using standardized methodology. The preliminary results of this study showed already that protected or inaccessible reefs were in better conditions than those freely exploited, and highlighted the need for management measures and establishment of marine protected areas. The present paper reviews the preliminary results of the monitoring program and discusses its objectives and importance.