Conducted by PIT
, Started on 2020 -
Completed on 2020
Completed
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Coral reefs of the Tres Marias Islands provide habitat for diverse marine organisms and significantly contribute to the economic activities in Northwest Leyte, Philippines. Unfortunately, no comprehensive and detailed study was conducted to determine the status of the hard coral and the reef-associated benthic resources in Tres Marias Islands, particularly, Tabuk Island being a marine protected area. Baseline coral resources assessment was done in randomly identified stations in the Tres Marias Islands. The modified Reef Check methodology was used to determine the percentage covers and generic diversity based on the Taxonomic Agglomeration Units (TAUs). Tabuk Island had the highest hard coral cover and generic diversity than the other two islands. Four Evolutional Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) hard coral species were recorded in Tres Marias Islands. Furthermore, a coral bleaching event was observed in the area and reported officially in this study. The findings of this study highlight the effectiveness of the establishment of a marine protected area in the growth and recruitment of reef-building corals.