Biophysical Survey of Mafia Island Marine Reserves

Frontier Tanzania Environmental Research 

REPORT 128 

A biophysical survey of three new marine reserves in 

Mafia Island, Tanzania 

Nyororo Island Marine Reserve, Shungimbili Island Marine 

Reserve, and Mbarakuni Island Marine Reserve 

Jones, L. and Fanning, E. (Eds) 

Frontier Tanzania 

April 2010

Frontier Tanzania Environmental Research 

REPORT 128 

A biophysical survey of three new marine reserves in 

Mafia Island, Tanzania 

Nyororo Island Marine Reserve, Shungimbili Island Marine 

Reserve, and Mbarakuni Island Marine Reserve 

Mafia Island Marine Parks 

Jones L., & Fanning, E., (eds) 

Technical report 

Ministry of Natural Resources and 

Tourism, Tanzania 

Wildlife Division 

2010 

Frontier-Tanzania 

University of Dar es Salaam 

Society for Environmental Exploration

Suggested Technical Report citation: 

Frontier Tanzania (2010). A biophysical survey of three new marine reserves in Mafia 

Island, Tanzania. Jones, L., and Fanning, E. (Eds.) Frontier Tanzania Environmental 

Research Report 128. The Society for Environmental Exploration, London, UK, Mafia Island 

Marine Parks, The University of Dar es Salaam. 

The Frontier-Tanzania Environmental Research Report Series is published by: 

The Society for Environmental Exploration 

50-52 Rivington Street 

London, EC2A 3QP 

United Kingdom 

Tel: +44 (0)20 7613 2422 

Fax: +44 (0)20 7613 2992 

Email: research@frontier.ac.uk 

Web Page: www.frontier.ac.uk 

Frontier-Tanzania Environmental Research (FTER) 

ISSN 1479-1161 (Print) 

ISSN 1748-3670 (Online) 

ISSN 1748-5124 (CD-ROM)

Acknowledgements 

The research for this report was carried out by Frontier Tanzania Marine Project on 

behalf of the Marine Parks and Reserves Unit, Tanzania, between November 2008 and 

June 2009. The collection of data was made possible by the assistance and contributions 

of Frontier conservation volunteers and staff.

Executive Summary 

Major Findings 

• Presence of juvenile black tip sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) in shallow 

lagoon areas at Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve (SIMR). 

• Green turtle (Chelonia mydas) present at SIMR and Nyororo Island Marine 

Reserve (NIMR). SIMR is potentially a breeding and nesting site for green turtle 

based on observations of turtle behaviour, and anecdotal evidence from other 

conservation organisations operating in the area. 

• Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate) have been recorded as present at both 

NIMR and SIMR. 

• The seagrass beds at MBIMR appear to provide a particularly rich and diverse 

ecosystem. Observations of invertebrates and fish present have shown high 

abundance of important commercial and ecological species. 

• The presence of an extensive octopus fishery at NIMR. 

• Commercial diving for Spiny Lobster (Panulirus spp.) at Mbarakuni Island Marine 

Reserve (MBIMR) and SIMR. 

• Gastropod harvest for the marine curio trade at all three reserves. 

• Minor settlement on Nyororo Island that is engaged in commercial and subsistence 

fishing as well as providing a stop off for trading, and a safe haven for passing 

vessels. 

• Rapid coastal erosion of Shungimbili Island. 

• Opportunity for revisions to the reserve boundaries in order to afford better 

protection for areas of high ecologically importance. 

Recommendations 

o SIMR is a key nursery for Elasmobranch species that are under threat both locally 

and worldwide. Blacktip sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) are present at high 

density in the sandy shallows surrounding the island. In addition, there have been 

unconfirmed sightings of lesser guitar fish (Rhinobatus annulatus) or sandshark 

juveniles. Blue spot stingrays (Dasyati kuhulii) are also abundant. Further studies

are recommended in order to determine the importance of the C. melanopterus 

nursery and estimate recruitment and survival levels. 

o Hawksbill and green turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata and Chelonia mydas) have 

been observed within SIMR and NIMR. At some sites in SIMR C. mydas have 

been observed frequently, with some very large individuals recorded as being near 

the maximum size for the species. Evidence from in-water observations, and 

information from other conservation organisations operating in the area, suggests 

that SIMR is a breeding and potential nesting site for C. mydas. Both species are 

listed on the IUCN red list (C. mydas as Endangered and E. imbricata as 

Critically Endangered). In order to establish whether the turtles breed at these 

sites, a survey of nesting signs, courtship and nesting behaviour is required, in 

addition to a population census. 

o All three reserve areas have extensive seagrass beds. The shallow beds at MBIMR 

exhibit particularly high biodiversity. These habitats are key nurseries and feeding 

grounds for many fish species. They are crucial for any recovery of the dugong 

(Dugong dugong) population, and are also of great importance to mollusc 

populations such as the edible sea cucumbers e.g. Holothuria edulis and tiger 

cowrie (Cypraea tigris). 

o MBIMR supports a small commercial operation, fishing for lobster (Palunirus 

spp). This, and other fishing activities, maintains a small camp of fishers at most 

times of the year. The commercial lobster diving operation operates using local 

labour and a compressor in situ. Further work is required to assess both the 

sustainability in terms of yield and renewal rates, and the economic and social 

impacts of this operation. 

o Observations made on catch levels at NIMR suggest that fishers harvest octopus 

at a very high rate, which is possibly above sustainable yield levels. In addition, 

many other mollusc species are harvested for both food and the curio trade. The 

octopus fishery is an important source of revenue for Mafia; however the high

price it fetches may be contributing to over-fishing. Stock assessment is required 

to ascertain whether catch levels are at sustainable maximum yields, and to ensure 

that harvest levels do not exceed recruitment levels. In addition, assessment of the 

ecological impacts of fishing methods is needed to ensure habitat damage is not 

occurring. 

o The Island of Nyororo and its sub-tidal habitats have large numbers of grassroots 

stakeholders. Its position as a stop off and trading post between Mafia and the 

mainland makes it likely to be of high importance to a much wider group than 

those who stay there and their dependants. A wide and comprehensive stakeholder 

analysis is required to determine both the value and impacts of this settlement. 

This will enable effective management of the reserve area, whilst maintaining the 

traditional important role Nyororo plays in the sea trading route between Mafia 

and the mainland. We recommend that the welfare of these stakeholders is taken 

into account during the planning process to ensure that management actions are 

both effective and inclusive. 

o Ecologically and commercially valuable gastropods such as the triton trumpet 

shell (Charonia tritonis) and bullmouth helmet shell (Cypreacassis rufa) are 

present on both NIMR and MBIMR. There is evidence that these are harvested 

along with C. tigris for the trade in marine curios. C. tritonis and C.tigris are 

listed by CITES as banned for international trade. Further research needs to be 

undertaken to establish appropriate management strategies. 

o In several cases the reserve areas are delineated in such a way as to omit areas of 

high ecological importance such as reef crests and portions of the islands. This is 

especially the case at MBIMR and SIMR. It is advised that the gazettements are 

revised to allow for effective management and to ensure that areas of high 

ecological importance are adequately protected.

Table of Contents 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

I. INTRODUCTION 

II. STUDY SITES 

III. METHODS 

A. Field Methods 

1. Reserve Mapping 

a) Image processing methodology 

b) Habitat mapping using low resolution satellite images 

2. Coral Reef Habitats 

3. Seagrass Habitats 

4. Stakeholder Identification & Analysis 

B. Data Analysis 




4. Stakeholder Identification & Analysis

IV. RESULTS 

A. Nyororo Island Marine Reserve (NIMR) 



a) Benthic Composition 

b) Invertebrate Abundance 

c) Reef Fish Abundance 

d) Commercial Fish Abundance 



B. Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve (SIMR) 








a) Substrate composition 

b) Benthic composition 

c) Invertebrate abundance 

d) Fish abundance 

4. Stakeholder Identification & Analysis

C. Mbarakuni Island Marine Reserve (MBIMR) 

V. DISCUSSION 

VI. APPENDICES 













A. Fish Species List

I. INTRODUCTION 

Project Aim 

To conduct biophysical surveys of three Mafia Island Marine Reserves (MIMRs) that will 

provide the basis on which management objectives can be formulated. 

Objectives 

• Describe the structure of the reefs, benthic cover, seagrass beds, marine fauna 

and flora 

• Identify sites of high biodiversity and/or those under threat 

• Detail the current type and level of use of the reefs and associated habitats within 

the MIMRs and buffer zones 

• Identify any potential use conflicts and potentially under-utilised resources 

• Give a general biophysical description of the MIMRs that includes the coastline 

characteristics, beach, and depth profiles 

• Provide maps that show depth profiles, major biophysical features, and core 

zones for each reserve area 

• Provide data and advice to the Marine Parks and Reserves Unit which is 

contributory to the production of a GIS database and maps. 

• Identify and conduct a preliminary analysis of major stakeholder groups of the 

Outcomes 

MIMRs, including assessments of any fish catch data that is made available by 

the Mafia Fisheries Office. 

• A report detailing biological and ecological analysis of the resources within the 

MIMRs and the profiles of all three areas within the MIMRs 

• Recommendations for management interventions that will contribute to effective 

management of the MIMRs 

• Establishment of permanent monitoring sites and development of indicators that 

will enable ongoing biological and ecological monitoring of the MIMRs 

• Production of maps showing resources bases within the MIMRs.

II. STUDY SITES 

The Mafia Island Marine Reserves are located in Mafia District, Tanzania, to the North- 

west of Mafia Island. They are situated in the Western Indian Ocean in the shallow 

stretch of water that separates Mafia Island from the mainland of Tanzania, 

approximately 35km off the Tanzanian coast. This area is located in the mouth of the 

Rufiji delta, and is therefore heavily influenced by the outflow from this major river 

system. It is also affected by the East African Current and both the north-eastern and 

south-western monsoons. The NE monsoon (Kaskazi) runs from November to March and 

brings strong northerly winds, which is followed later in the year by a period of heavy 

rains which run until May. The wind direction is then reversed with the coming of the SE 

monsoon (Kusi) which blows from June to October and brings steady winds and good 

weather. Another period of shorter rains also follows this monsoon. The East Africa 

current is a major influencing factor on the area, and runs approximately south to north. 

The current can flow at between 1 and 4 knots, depending on physical conditions, water 

depth and season. 

Tides are another important factor in the physical makeup of the reserves. Tides in this 

region are mixed semi-diurnal, and average spring tidal range is approximately 3-4m, 

varying throughout the year. Currents are heavily influenced around the reserves by tidal 

state, with slack water negating currents to a negligible amount, and other states 

magnifying them to a maximum of 2-3kts in some cases. There is some evidence to 

suggest that tides were exceptionally high throughout January and February 2009, to the 

extent that the islands were washed over in parts. These high tides are almost certainly 

responsible for the morphology of the steep beaches that characterise the two smallest 

islands. Low tides expose shallow reef flat and sea grass areas to view around both 

Shungimbili and Mbarakuni Islands.

The reserves were established under the Tanzanian Marine Parks and Reserves Act on the 

2 nd March 2007. There are three distinct areas included in this declaration based around 

the islands of Nyororo, Shungimbili, and Mbarakuni. Although the three marine reserves 

had been established in law, no management of the reserves had been implemented at the 

time of this report. 

Nyororo Island Marine Reserve (NIMR) is the most northerly of the three reserves. It 

also has the greatest total area, and contains the largest of the three islands. The island is 

located 35km form the mainland and 21km from Mafia Island. The reserve encompasses 

all water and land areas contained within the following points: 

1) Lat 7° 35’ 24”S, Long 39° 41’ 44”E 

2) Lat 7° 36’ 36”S, Long 39° 41’ 44”E 

3) Lat 7° 36’ 36”S, Long 39° 44’ 06”E 

4) Lat 7° 39’ 14”S, Long 39° 43’ 13”E 

5) Lat 7° 38’ 35”S, Long 39° 40’ 36”E 

6) Lat 7° 38’ 00”S, Long 39° 40’ 30”E 

7) Lat 7° 36’ 42”S, Long 39° 40’ 54”E 

8) Lat 7° 35’ 47”S, Long 39° 40’ 24”E 

The area contained within the reserves extends to 13km² and includes extensive areas of 

seagrass, coral reef and other habitats, in addition to the island of Nyororo itself. The 

island is 1.5km in length and 0.8km in width. In common with Mafia Island, it is 

composed of coral rag and sand sediments. 

Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve (SIMR) is the second largest island, and thus has the 

second largest reserve surrounding it at approximately 4.2km². The island itself sits 

roughly 13km from the Mafia coast, and is made up of a terrestrial environment 

approximately 1km by 0.25km. It is characterised by steep sandy beaches around the 

southern tip and a gently sloping rock platform which dominates the northern part, 

cutting through the island from east to west. Vegetation on the island follows typical 

succession, with trees dominating the centre, and small shrubs and vines towards the 

fringes. The western side of Shungimbili is characterised by many fallen trees lying into

the surf, caused by the heavy erosion brought on by high spring tides. The reef lies in a 

line along the north-eastern and eastern sides of the island, and sea grass beds are found 

in both shallow and deeper water sites around the island. 

The marine reserve encompasses the following points: 

1) Lat 7° 40’ 36”S, Long 39° 41’ 20”E 

2) Lat 7° 41’ 20”S, Long 39° 42’ 04”E 

3) Lat 7° 42’ 22”S, Long 39° 40’ 52”E 

4) Lat 7° 41’ 41”S, Long 39° 40’ 18”E 

Mbarakuni Island Marine Reserve (MBIMR) is both the smallest land area and reserve, 

and is closest to Mafia at 7.4km. The reserve itself covers an area of roughly 3.8km², 

while the terrestrial environment is confined to an area 0.5km by 0.5km. Steep beaches 

again abound here, and there is also a similar rock platform to that found on Shungimbili 

Island along the northern side. Sandbar and rock platform areas become obvious at low 

tide, when they are exposed to view. The reef lies on the north and eastern side of the 

island. Extensive areas of shallow seagrass beds are found between the reef and the 

island. 

The reserve at Mbarakuni is included in the following points: 

1) Lat 7° 42’ 30”S, Long 39° 44’ 13”E 

2) Lat 7° 42’ 30”S, Long 39° 45’ 42”E 

3) Lat 7° 43’ 28”S, Long 39° 45’ 42”E 

4) Lat 7° 43’ 28”S, Long 39° 45’ 42”E 

5) Lat 7° 43’ 28”S, Long 39° 44’ 13”E

III. METHODS 

A. Field Methods 


a) Patch Mosaic Creation Methodology 

Delineation of Patch Mosaic 

Patch mosaics, suitable for GIS manipulation, were created from satellite images 

of the three marine reserve sites using an iterative method combining four main 

processes. Firstly, the original image was colour enhanced to improve clarity for visual 

identification of patch types and boundaries. Secondly, prototype patch boundaries were 

created using visual indications of spectral boundaries that were apparent on the 

improved image (Figure 1a). This was used to direct the locations selected for the ground 

proofing methodologies described below. Once collected, ground proofing data was 

overlaid on the image to build a patch mosaic by inference of patch characteristics 

(Figure 1b). 

Figure 1. a) Prototype patch boundaries and b) Patch mosaic created by inference of patch characteristics 

created based on ground proofing data.

Occasionally, proofing did not confirm either patch boundaries or patch type. 

Consequently, patch types and boundaries were revised. This then directed the selection 

of locations for further proofing. This process was repeated until a consensus was 

reached; the image was then processed to create a final patch mosaic. Each patch was 

assigned a colour to denote the patch type, finally resulting in the delineation of the 

habitat present in each marine reserve area. It should be noted that a high resolution 

satellite image was only available for the purposes of this report for NIMR. The images 

used for the basis of the patch mosaic creation for SIMR and MBIMR were of far lower 

resolution. 

Ground Proofing Methodology (High Resolution Satellite Image - NIMR) 

Ground proofing transects perpendicular to a series of biophysical features were 

conducted by snorkel and SCUBA diving. These were designed to provide habitat cross 

sections and geo-referenced patch boundaries which could be overlaid onto the high 

resolution satellite image. Along these transects, benthic composition data was collected 

(Table 2). For SCUBA, benthic composition was recorded every two meters. For snorkel, 

percentage composition was recorded for each habitat patch transversed. Habitat patches 

were then created and categorised according to the habitat categories described in 

Appendix 1. All transects were GPS tracked so they could be overlaid onto the image. 

Table 1. A sample of dive transect data including the prescribed habitat categories (Appendix 1) and 

benthic cover types (Table 2). 

TRANSECT 1 

Meters 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 

Cover Type SC SC SC HM RK SC SC HM MA MA HCBR HCBR HCBR 

Habitat Type REEF SLOPE 

ALGAL 

RIDGE ACROPORA COMM 

Meters 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 

Cover Type SG SG SG SA SG SG SG SG SG MA SA RB SA 

Habitat Type 

SEAGRASS 

BEDS LAGOONAL - 

Additional data were collected by spot checks using snorkel, SCUBA and 

percentage composition data using manta tows. Also, benthic composition data were used 

from benthic composition data collected from the species survey section of this report.

Ground Proofing Methodology (Low Resolution Satellite Images – SIMR and MBIMR) 

A GPS SMB module was used to record spot feature locations and also tracks 

along linear features using SCUBA and snorkel. This provided patch boundary locations 

that were not apparent on the low resolution image. GPS spot and track information were 

then uploaded onto Garmin Mapsource (GM) ready for patch mosaic creation. Additional 

data were collected by spot checks using snorkel, SCUBA and percentage composition 

data using manta tows. Also, benthic composition data were used from benthic 

composition data collected from the species survey section of this report. 

Patch Mosaic Creation 

The GPS information was overlaid onto a low resolution Google Earth image 

from GM to confirm size and orientation of patch features. Once the GPS information 

was aligned with the satellite image, the resulting image was used as the basis on which 

to build a final patch mosaic (Figure 2) using benthic composition (Table 2) and habitat 

categories (Appendix 1). 

Figure 2. Mosaic creation using Google Earth Image and GPS track, point and transect information.


Benthic Composition 

Benthic composition data were collected in conjunction with reef fish and 

invertebrate abundance. Surveyors recorded the benthic or substrate type every 0.5m 

starting at 0.5m along a 25m transect set at a constant depth. This resulted in the 

collection of 50 points per transect. Transects were laid along the reef at various depths 

from 4 to 12 m. Depths depended on the topography of individual reefs. The total number 

of surveys carried out depended on the extent of the reef, but at least four transects per 

depth were laid in each reef habitat assessed at a minimum of four sites. Two or more 

depths were surveyed for each reef habitat. GPS positions were taken for the entry points 

for all transect survey dives. Composition data were collected using the categories listed 

below in Table 2. 

Table 2. Benthic composition categories and associated codes 

Category Code Category Code 

HARD CORAL: ALGAE 

Branching HCBR Turf Algae - Rubble TARK 

Columnar HCC Turf algae - Rock TARB 

Plate HCP Nutrient Indicator Algae NIA 

Encrusting HCE Coralline algae CCA 

Foliaceous HCF Macroalgae MA 

Massive HCM ABIOTIC 

Sub-massive HCSM Sand SA 

Solitary HCS Rubble RB 

Bleached Coral BL Rock RK 

OTHER BIOTIC: Silt ST 

Soft coral SC Dead coral DC 

Sponge SP 

Other Benthic Organisms OBO Other OT 

Seagrass SG

Invertebrate Abundance 

Invertebrate abundance was assessed alongside benthic composition and reef fish 

abundance. Surveyors recorded the number of target invertebrates within a 5m box along 

a 25m transect set at a constant depth. Invertebrate abundance was collected using the 

categories listed below in Table 3. 

Table 3. Invertebrate species categories used for abundance data collection 

Common Name Latin Name 

DIADEMA Gernera: Diadema spp. 

OTHER URCHINS Class: Echinoidea 

EDIBLE SEA CUCUMBER 

Six species in the familes Holothuridae spp.and 

Stichopodidae spp. 

NON TARGET CUCUMBER All other species of sea cucumbers 

OCTOPUS Order: Octopoda 

SQUID/CUTTLEFISH Order: Teuthoidea / Sepiidea 

NUDIBRANCH Order: Nudibranchia 

LOBSTER Family: Palinuridae 

CROWN OF THORN Acanthaster planci 

OTHER STARFISH Class: Asteroidea 

GIANT CLAM Family: Tridacnidae 

COWRIE Family: Cypraeidae 

TRITON TRUMPET SHELL Species: Charonia tritonis 

BULL MOUTH HELMET SHELL Species: Cypraecassis rufa 

Reef Fish Abundance 

DRUPELLA Genera: Drupella 

Reef fish abundance data were collected in conjunction with benthic composition 

and invertebrate abundance. Surveyors recorded the number of target reef fish within a 

5m box along a 25m transect set at a constant depth. Transects were laid at various depths 

from 4 to 12 m. Survey depths depended on the topography of individual reefs. Fish 

abundance data were collected during the laying of the transect line to minimise

disturbance. Where this was not possible surveyors waited for 5 minutes away from the 

transect in order to allow fish to return. Abundance of fish was recorded for the species 

listed in Table 4. 

Table 4. Fish species list used for collection of abundance data collection. 

Common name Latin name Common name Latin name 

BUTTERLYFISH ANGELFISH 

Lined Butterflyfish Chaetodon lineolatus Three spot Angelfish Apolemichthys trimaculatus 

Saddleback Butterflyfish Chaetodon falcula Two-spined / Dusky 

Angelfish 

Centropyge bispinosus 

Black-backed Butterflyfish Chaetodon melannotus Regal Angelfish Pygoplites diacanthus 

Vagabond Butterflyfish Chaetodon vagabundus Emperor Angelfish Pomacanthus imperator 

Threadfin Butterflyfish Chaetodon auriga Semicircle angelfish Pomacanthus semicirculatus 

Teardrop Butterflyfish Chaetodon unimaculatus Ear-spot angelfish Pomacanthus chrysurus 

Bennett’s Butterflyfish Chaetodon bennetti Yellowbar angelfish Pomacanthus maculosus 

Zanzibar Butterflyfish Chaetodon zanzibariensis SURGEONFISH 

Crown Butterflyfish Chaetodon paucifasciatus Moorish Idol Zanclus cornutus 

Klein’s Butterflyfish Chaetodon kleinii Brushtail tang Zebrasoma scopes 

Yellowhead Butterflyfish Chaetodon xanthocephalus Convict surgeonfish Acanthus triostegus 

Raccoon Butterflyfish Chaetodon lunula Powder-blue surgeonfish Acanthurus leucosternon 

Spotted Butterflyfish Chaetodon guttatissimus Palette surgeonfish Paracanthus hepatus 

Somali Butterflyfish Chaetodon leucopleura Black surgeonfish Acanthurus gahhm 

Redfin Butterflyfish Chaetodon trifasciatus Thompson’s surgeonfish Acanthurus thompsoni 

Meyer’s Butterflyfish Chaetodon meyeri Lietenant surgeonfish Acanthurus tennenti 

Chevroned Butterflyfish Chaetodon trifascialus Striped bristletooth Ctenochaetus striatus 

Blackburn’s Butterflyfish Chaetodon blackburni Goldring bristletooth Ctenochaetus strigosus 

Black Pyramid Butterflyfish Hemitaurichthys zoster Sailfin Tang Zerasoma desjardinii 

Big Long-nosed 

Butterflyfish 

Forcipiger longirostris Two spot bristletooth Ctenochaetus binotatus 

Longfin Bannerfish Heniochus acuminatus GOATFISH 

Masked Bannerfish Heniochus monoceros Yellowsaddle goatfish Parupeneus cyclostomus 

WRASSE Longbarbel goatfish Parupeneus macronema 

Slingjaw wrasse Epibulus insidiator Dash-and-dot goatfish Parupeneus barberinus 

Checkerboard wrasse Haliochoeres hortulanus TRIGGERFISH Balistidae 

Indian Ocean Bird wrasse Gomphosus caeruleus GROUPERS Serranidae 

Goldbar wrasse Thalassoma hebraicum PARROTFISH Scaridae 

Sixbar wrasse Thalassoma hardwicke RABBITFISH Siganidae 

UNICORNFISH Nasinae 

BATFISH/SPADEFISH Ephippidae

Commercially Targeted Fish 

The methodology for data acquisition of targeted fish abundance was slightly 

modified from that of reef fish data. This was due to the habits and characteristics of the 

target fish which display a lower affinity with the benthos over which they reside. Data 

were collected by a pair of SCUBA divers swimming underwater along the reef at a 

constant depth for fifteen minutes, noting the abundance of all target fish they saw. 

Commercially targeted fish searched for is shown in Table 5. GPS start and end positions 

were taken for all commercial targeted fish survey dives. 

Table 5. Fish species list used for collection of abundance of commercially targeted data collection. 


GROUPER EMPEROR 

Peacock Grouper Cephalopholis argus Spangled Emperor Lethrinus nebulosus 

Sixspot Grouper Cephalopholis sexmaculata Blackspot Emperor Lethrinus harak 

Coral Hind Grouper Cephalopholis miniata Longface Emperor Lethrinus olivaceus 

Saddleback coral Grouper Plectropomus laevis Bigeye Emperor Monotaxis grandoculus 

Whitespotted Grouper Epinephelus 

caeruleopunctatus 

Other Grouper Any other grouper species 

Other Emperor Any other emperor species 

SNAPPER Thumbprint Spinecheek Scolopsis bimaculatus 

Blackspot Snapper Lutjanus ehrenbergi 

Red Snapper Lutjanus bohar JACKS / TREVALLYS Carangidae 

Bluelined Snapper Lutjanus kasmira KINGFISH / TUNA Scombridae 

Other Snapper Any other snapper species PARROTFISH Scaridae 

SWEETLIPS SURGEONFISH Acanthuridae 

Black Sweetlips Plectorhinchus sordidus RABBITFISH Siganidae 

Slatey Sweetlips Diagramma pictum GOATFISH Mullidae 

Oriental Sweetlips Plectorhinchus orientalis BARRACUDA Sphyraenidae 

Blackspotted Sweetlips Plectorhinchus gaterinus TRIGGERFISH Balistidae 

Goldspotted Sweetlips Plectorhinchus 

flavomaculatus 

NEEDLEFISH Belonidae 

Other Sweetlips Any other sweetlips species FUSILIERS Caesionidae 

SHARKS / RAYS Carcharhinidae/Dasyatidae

As with the other data collection methods employed for this report, divers swam 

at a constant depth, following contours of the reef rather than a specific bearing. Data 

were collected at a range of depths, as with the transect methodologies, to allow 

differences across the depth gradients to be observed. In some cases, fish appear on both 

the reef fish census, and on the commercial fish census, highlighting their importance 

within the reef community. Some species listed in Table 5 have been identified only to 

family level for simplicity of the survey method and to ensure data accuracy. 


Shallow seagrass beds (< 2m deep) within the inner and outer lagoon areas were 

assessed. Inner lagoon sites were located within 300m of the island shoreline and outer 

lagoon sites were within 300m of the reef edge. In addition deep (> 4m) seagrass habitats 

were assessed for fish abundance where they were found to be particularly extensive. A 

minimum of four lagoon sites were selected at each island, two inner and two outer. Each 

site consisted of 10 points chosen to form a grid pattern within an area extending to 

250m². Each of the 10 points selected had the centre point GPS marked. Four 1m² 

quadrats were thrown out from the centre point at 90° to each other, within a 10m 

diameter circular area. Each quadrat area was visually inspected for substrate and benthos 

composition based on estimates of percent cover. Invertebrate species present, and their 

abundance, were also recorded. 

Fish abundance on the deep seagrass beds was also assessed for some sites. Fish 

were recorded in 22 different categories (Table 6) during 5 minute swims over seagrass 

habitats on given bearings. Types and density of seagrass species were also recorded. 

Sites were studied where accessible and extensive seagrass habitats were found at depths 

of 4m or deeper. 

Table 6. Fish species list used for collection of abundance of fish species found on seagrass habitats. 


Damselfish SIGANIDAE Rabbitfish SIGANIDAE 

Goatfish MULLIDAE Surgeonfish ACANTHURIDAE

Indian Ocean Bird wrasse Gomphosus caeruleus Barracuda SPHYRAENIDAE 

Cigar wrasse Cephalopholis miniata Pufferfish Any pufferfish species 

Other wrasses Plectropomus laevis Sergeantfish Any seargeantfish species 

Whitespotted Grouper Epinephelus 


Razorfish Any razorfish species 

Snapper Any other snapper species Demosielle Neopomacentrus spp. 

Emperor Any emperor species Cardinalfish APOGONIDAE 

Emperor juvenile Any juvenile emperor species Tobys CANTHIGASTERINAE 

Fusiliers CAESIONIDAE Grouper Any grouper species 

Parrotfish SCARIDAE Other Any other fish species 

Seagrass Parrotfish Leptoscarus vaigienis 


Stakeholder activities were identified by direct observation and informal 

interviews. Observations such as counting and categorising fishing vessels were carried 

out in situ during surveys on the study sites. Stakeholder interviews were conducted both 

within and outside the study sites. 

IV. Results 

A. Nyororo Island Marine Reserve (NIMR) 


A prototype patch mosaic was created using the high resolution satellite image 

(Figure 3). The data collected at NIMR, through transect, spot checks and manta tows, 

were used to describe the identified patches using the methodologies described. Initial 

data collection demonstrated that there was a greater diversity of patch types than initially 

delineated. The final habitat patch mosaic was created using all the ground proofing data 

collected. Final patch types included additional types such as areas dominated by or 

including macro algae, coralline rubble and a variety of different mixed habitat types.

The mapping process has described the shape and extent of the main terrestrial, 

tidal and marine habitats within the reserve area. The final habitat map created included 

six major patch types, ranging from reefs dominated by Acropora corals, through 

seagrass beds, to mixed macroalgal environments. 

Figure 3. Final habitat patch map of NIMR created using a high resolution satellite image and GPS track, 

point and transect info. 

2. Coral Reef Habitat

Several areas of coral reef habitat have been observed within the borders of 

NIMR. The major areas of scleractinian coral are on the western and southern sides of 

Nyororo Island, along the reef drop-off extending from the north-west of the reserve area 

down to the north-east, on deeper reef sites in the eastern section of the reserve, and in 

scattered patches within the lagoonal area at the centre of the reserve. These consist of a 

range of reef types supporting differing coral communities. Along the western side of 

Nyororo Island, and in parts along the shallow areas of the northern reef edge, are 

branching Acropora dominated communities. These communities are typical of those 

found in more exposed environments with higher levels of water flux. The deeper sites in 

the eastern section consist primarily of very large massive corals. Massive growth forms 

also tend to dominate the reef framework on the lagoon and back reef sites, but the 

communities here also support other coral species and include columnar and branching 

forms. 


The reef habitats observed on the reef flat and slope on the western side of the 

island (Site 2) have the highest exposure to anthropogenic influences. This is manifested 

in some damage occurring, particularly on the reef flat, with large areas of broken 

branching and foliaceous coral. However, this site still has high levels of scleractinian 

coral cover (Figure 4), especially on the deeper parts of the reef and on areas further 

away from the fishing camp, and supports an abundant fish population. As with all the 

reef areas assessed, there is a high coverage of soft corals (Figure 4). The scleractinian 

coral community on this reef consists primarily of branching Acropora as well as large 

areas of foliaceous corals (Figure 5). 

Bleaching, primarily of branching Acropora species on the shallow reef flat, was 

observed on two visits. Water temperature during this period was an average of 

approximately 34°C. In addition, some bleached colonies had suffered partial mortality, 

most likely as a result of the bleaching event.

Average percent cover (+/- SE) 

35 

30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

All hard coral 

Dead Coral 

Bleached Coral 

Soft Coral 

Sponge 

Other Benthic Organisms 

Seagrass 

Macroalgae 

Turf algae on coral rock 

Turf algae on rubble 

Crustose Coralline Algae 

Nutrient Indicator Algae 

Rock 

Rubble 

Sand 

Silt 

Other 

Figure 4. Average percent cover (+/- SE) by benthic type across all transects completed at site 2, Nyororo. 


14 

12 

10 

8 

6 

4 

2 

0 

Massive Branching Columnar Submassive Foliaceous Encrusting Solitary Tabular 

Figure 5. Average percent cover (+/- SE) of scleractinian coral by growth morphology across all transects 

completed at site 2, Nyororo. 

Site 3 (NW Reef) at NIMR is located on the seaward side of the northern most 

reef edge that extends from the north of Nyororo Island down to the east of the reserve

area, the most extensive continuous reef site identified at NIMR. The north-west tip of 

the reef consists of extensive Thalassodendron cilatum seagrass beds but changes into a 

soft coral dominated reef approximately 300m along the reef edge to the east. The rocky 

reef section extends down to a depth of 10m. Sand substrates are found at the bottom of 

the reef edge, which then very gradually slopes downwards reaching a maximum depth of 

about 20m. The site is frequently subject to strong currents and high turbidity. In places, 

the shallow crest and reef flat areas support branching Acropora communities, however, 

at other locations, such as site 3, the shallow areas are dominated by macroalgae and 

seagrass. 

This section of reef is formed of coral rock overlaid by loose sand and rubble 

substrates. It supports a diverse and extensive soft coral community (27.78% +/- SE 

4.67), as well as sponge (7.33% +/-SE 1.04) and scleractinian coral species (7.17% +/- 

SE 2.22) (Figure 6). The scleractinian coral consists primarily of massive growth forms 

(6.17% +/- SE 2.30) with low levels of encrusting and branching forms (Figure 7). 


35 

30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 


Dead Coral 



Sponge 


Seagrass 

Macroalgae 





Rock 

Figure 6. Average percent cover (+/- SE) by benthic type across all transects completed at site 3, NIMR. 

Rubble 

Sand 

Silt 

Other


9 

8 

7 

6 

5 

4 

3 

2 

1 

0 


Figure 7. Average percent cover (+/- SE) of scleractinian coral by growth morphology across all transects 

completed at site 3, NIMR. 


Observations of catch levels for octopi and various gastropods appears to be very 

high, which suggests abundant populations around Nyororo. However, this was not borne 

out by the transect data collected. Collection of further data sets at other sites might 

reveal which areas support higher population levels, and therefore are of greatest 

importance to fishers. The majority of invertebrates observed at both site 2 and 3 were 

urchins or starfish. Site 3 had much higher abundances than site 2 for Other Urchins 

(Table 3) (Site 2: 8.67 +/- SE 8.37; Site 3: 42.25 +/- SE 14.90) and NT Starfish (Table 3) 

(Site 2: 2.94 +/- SE 0.67, Figure 8; Site 3: 37.17 +/- SE 5.06, Figure 9), although both 

sites exhibited high variability in abundances. Nudibranch species were also common at 

both sites, with similar abundance levels recorded.

Average abundance (+/- SE) 

30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

Diadema 

Other Urchin 

Edible Cucumber 

Non-edible cucumber 

Octopus 

Squid/Cuttlefish 

Nudibranch 

Lobster 

COTS 

NT Starfish 

Giant Clam 

Cowrie 

Triton Trumpet 

Drupella 

Bull Mouth Helmet 

Figure 8. Mean abundance of invertebrate species observed across all transects completed at site 2, NIMR. 


70 

60 

50 

40 

30 

20 

10 

0 

Diadema 

Other Urchin 



Octopus 


Nudibranch 

Lobster 

COTS 

NT Starfish 

Giant Clam 

Cowrie 


Drupella 


Figure 9. Mean abundance of invertebrate species observed across all transects completed at site 3, NIMR. 


In total 26 species or groups of reef fish were recorded out of a total of 55 looked 

for (Table 4) at Site 2, NIMR (Fishing Camp Reef). Highest abundances were recorded


for parrotfish (4.78+/-1.72 per transect) and for black surgeonfish (2.73+/-0.87). Key 

butterfly fish species present were Threadfin and Redfin. Redfin butterfly fish feed 

exclusively on coral polyps and are therefore very strongly associated with coral rich 

habitats. There were also a range of wrasses and goatfish species present (Figure 10). 

7 

6 

5 

4 

3 

2 

1 

0 

Lined Butterflyfish 

Saddleback Butterflyfish 

Black Backed Butterflyfish 

Vagabond Butterflyfish 

Threadfin Butterflyfish 

Teardrop Butterflyfish 

Bennetts Butterflyfish 

Zanzibar Butterflyfish 

Crown Butterflyfish 

Kleins Butterflyfish 

Yellowhead Butterflyfish 

Racoon Butterflyfish 

Spotted Butterflyfish 

Somali Butterflyfish 

Redfin Butterflyfish 

Meyers Butterflyfish 

Chevron Butterflyfish 

Blackburns Butterflyfish 

Black Pyramid 


Longfin Bannerfish 

Masked Bannerfish 

Three Spot Angelfish 

Dusky Angelfish 

Regal Angelfish 

Emperor Angelfish 

Semi Circle Angelfish 

Earspot Angelfish 

Yellowbar Angelfish 

Moorish Idol 

Brushtail Tang 

Sailfin Tang 

Convict Surgeonfish 

Powder Blue Surgeonfish 

Palette Surgeonfish 

Thompsons Surgeonfish 

Lietenant Surgeonfish 

Black Surgeonfish 

Two Spot Bristletooth 

Striped Bristletooth 

Goldring Bristletooth 

Slingjaw Wrasse 

Checkerboard Wrasse 

Indian Ocean Bird Wrasse 

Goldbar Wrasse 

Six-bar Wasse 

Yellow Saddle Goatfish 

Long Barbel Goatfish 

Dash & Dot Goatfish 

Triggerfish 

Grouper 

Parrotfish 

Unicornfish 

Batfish 

Rabbitfish 

Figure 10. Mean abundance of reef fish species observed on across all transects completed at site 2, NIMR. 

In total 24 species or groups of reef fish were recorded out of a total of 55 looked 

for (Table 4) at Site 3, NIMR (NW Reef). Highest abundances were recorded for two 

spot bristletooth (2.08+/- 0.53 per transect) and for striped bristletooth (1.83+/- 0.44) 

(Figure 13). Key butterfly fish species present were Vagabond, Kleins and Chevron. 

Other commonly recorded reef fish at this site were triggerfish, goatfish and wrasses 

(Figure 11).


3 

2.5 

2 

1.5 

1 

0.5 

0 



















Black Pyramid 











Moorish Idol 


Sailfin Tang 














Six-bar Wasse 




Triggerfish 

Grouper 

Parrotfish 

Unicornfish 

Batfish 

Rabbitfish 

Figure 11. Mean abundance of reef fish species observed across all transects completed at site three, 

NIMR. 


Observations made whilst exploring the reefs have shown the existence of a 

number of commercial fish species of relatively high abundance, namely blackspotted 

sweetlips (Plectorhinchus gaterinus), goldspotted sweetlips (Plectrohinchus 

flavomaculatus) and several species of snapper (Lutjanidae spp). In particular, site 2 had 

high numbers of black spotted and gold spotted sweetlips present. All of the surveyed 

sites had abundant populations of surgeonfish and parrotfish. Low numbers of groupers 

were observed during commercial fish swims. 

A small number of the commercial fish species looked for were present at site 1 at 

NIMR. Highest abundances were recorded for surgeonfish (Acanthuridae spp.), 

parrotfish, and black spot snappers and emperors (Figure 12). Other recorded families 

include snappers, sweetlips, goatfish, triggerfish, and fusiliers.


18 

16 

14 

12 

10 

8 

6 

4 

2 

0 

Peacock Grouper 

Sixspot Grouper 

Coral Hind Grouper 

Saddleback Coral Grouper 

Whitespotted Grouper 

Other Grouper 

Blackspot Snapper 

Red Snapper 

Blue Lined Snapper 

Other Snapper 

Black Sweetlips 

Slatey Sweetlips 

Oriental Sweetlips 

Blackspotted Sweetlips 

Goldspotted Sweetlips 

Other Sweetlips 

Spangled Emperor 

Blackspot Emperor 

Longface Emperor 

Bigeye Emperor 

Other Emperor 

Thumbprint Spinecheek 

Jacks/Trevally 

Kingfish/Tuna 

Parrotfish 

Surgeonfish 

Rabbitfish 

Goatfish 

Barracuda 

Triggerfish 

Needlefish 

Fusiliers 

Sharks/Rays 

Figure 12. Mean abundance of commercial fish species observed on across all swims completed at site 1, 

NIMR. 


Initial observations have shown that there are extensive, varied and rich seagrass 

beds at various locations around NIMR (Figure 3). Further examination of these areas 

would be likely to demonstrate the importance of these habitats and their significant role 

to the ecological diversity found at NIMR. Constraints imposed by both time and weather 

conditions meant that no data could be collected on seagrass habitats in NIMR during the 

course of this study. 

4. Stakeholder identification & analysis 

Nyororo Island has a large and permanent fishing camp. The camp features a 

lighthouse and lookout tower to aid navigation, and stocks basic supplies such as food 

that passing vessels may take on. Boats from both Mafia and the mainland rendezvous 

here to trade. Its position between the two makes it ideal both as a trading post and as a

stop off or shelter. Boats from the mainland were frequently observed to anchor off the 

fishing camp at Nyororo to rest before night fishing with nets and lamps off the north- 

west of Mafia. Growth of the settlement is limited by fresh water which must be 

imported. Local information suggests that there was once a good supply of fresh water 

available from a bore hole on the island but that over-use has resulted in the water 

becoming brackish and no longer drinkable. 

During the season of the northerly monsoon the camp was restricted to a 

remainder of around 30 fishers, who were originally from many different coastal districts 

in Tanzania, although it could at other times support many times this number. During the 

high season fishers are reported to come from many coastal regions on the mainland, and 

from Mafia, to setup temporary camp on Nyororo due to the high quality of the fishing. 

Many fish species are targeted opportunistically: unicorn fish (Naso sp.), groupers 

(Serranidae sp.), surgeon fish (Acanthurus sp.), parrot fish (Scaridae sp.) and a moray eel 

(Muraenidae sp.) were present on the drying racks on a visit to the camp. Octopus forms 

the mainstay of the commercial species targeted by fishers based on Nyororo Island. 

From 250 to 300 individuals were present on the camp and available for purchase at 

Tsh1600 per kilo during one visit. Octopus soup was also available. A few marine curios, 

notably the bullmouth helmet shell and triton trumpet shell, were present and prepared for 

sale. There have been reports that dynamite fishing is sometimes carried out on reefs 

within NIMR. Further work would be needed to ascertain the locations and extent of the 

use of this practice. 

B. Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve (SIMR) 


A patch mosaic was created from the low resolution satellite image in conjunction 

with benthic cover data, spot checks, and habitat patch boundary tracking (Figure 13). 

The mapping process showed that the main coral reef habitat is found on the northern and 

eastern sides of the island, around 1km distant from the island. The reef is approximately

2.5km in length and 100m in width at its maximum. In the main, the coral reef habitats 

are shallow, with the bottom of the reef reaching a maximum depth of 12m only. 

Between the island and the reef is a shallow seagrass bed formed primarily of 

Thalassodendron cilatum. The shallow areas to the west of the island comprise of sand 

flats, intermixed with small coral ‘bommies’ and dense Thalassodendron cilatum 

seagrass patches. A narrow sandstone rock platform runs through the northern section of 

the island and extends out into the sea on either side. There is also a small rock platform 

close to shore on the western side of the island. The southern end of the island has a small 

shallow sand bar extending from the island to the south, quickly dropping into deeper 

water down to 35m at approximately 500m from the shore. 

Figure 13: Final habitat patch map of SIMR created using a low resolution satellite image and GPS track, 

point and transect info. The current reserve boundaries are shown.

2. Coral Reef Habitat 


Benthic composition data was collected on coral reef habitats identified through 

spot checks of sites and broad-scale benthic composition assessments. A total of 41 

transects were completed over four sites. The reef is primarily dominated by soft corals 

with significant scleractinian coral areas (Figure 14). SIMR features all scleratinian coral 

growth forms, but the majority consists of massive Porities and branching Acropora 

species (Figure 15). As half of the data was collected at the lowest margin of the reef 

slope, and two of the sites were situated towards the end of the reef, a high level of sand 

substrates was recorded. This reflects the patchy nature of the coral reef at both its 

deepest margins and its edges. 


35 

30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 


Dead Coral 



Sponge 


Seagrass 

Macroalgae 





Rock 

Rubble 

Sand 

Silt 

Other 

Figure 14. Average percent cover by benthic type for all transects completed on coral reef habitats at 

SIMR.


8 

7 

6 

5 

4 

3 

2 

1 

0 


Figure 15. Average percent cover by scleractinian coral growth morphology across all transects completed 

on coral reef habitats at SIMR. 


Abundance of invertebrates was collected alongside benthic composition and reef 

fish data on the identified coral reef habitats. Overall, invertebrate presence was high, 

with particularly large numbers of starfish recorded (Figure 16). In addition 1.83 (SE+/- 

0.34) sea cucumbers, which are targeted for the bêche de mer trade, were found per 25m 

transect (Figure 16). Numbers of diadema and other urchin species recorded were low in 

comparison to other nearby reefs. No squid, cuttlefish or octopus were recorded on any of 

the transects. However, a single small cuttlefish was observed on one occasion on the reef 

whilst snorkelling.


30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

Diadema 

Other Urchin 



Octopus 


Nudibranch 

Lobster 

COTS 

NT Starfish 

Giant Clam 

Cowrie 


Drupella 


Figure 16. Mean abundance (+/- SE) of invertebrates recorded on all transects completed on coral reef 

habitat at SIMR. 


Reef fish data was collected over the same 25m transects as benthic composition 

and invertebrate data. Reef fish counts were high, and although very variable; several 

species were recorded for each transect. Certain species such as dash and dot goatfish 

(Parupeneus barberinus) and striped bristletooth (Ctenochaetus striatus) ranked among 

the most abundant fish species on average per 25m transect at a rate of 1.88 +/- SE 0.29 

and 1.88 +/- 0.29 SE, respectively (Figure 17). The diverse parrotfish family (Scaridae) 

was also notably high, although this category included all species of parrotfish, not 

individual species. Of the 55 species or groups of reef fish data were collected on, 32 

were recorded on transects at SIMR.


3.5 

3 

2.5 

2 

1.5 

1 

0.5 

0 



















Black Pyramid 











Moorish Idol 


Sailfin Tang 














Six-bar Wasse 




Triggerfish 

Grouper 

Parrotfish 

Unicornfish 

Batfish 

Rabbitfish 

Figure 17: Average abundance (+/- SE) of reef fish recorded on all transects completed on coral reef 



A total of eight commercial fish surveys were completed for SIMR. Common 

species noted include Sweetlips (Haemulidae), Jacks and Trevallys (Carangidae), 

Surgeonfish (Acanthuridae), Parrotfish (Scaridae), Goatfish (Mullidae), and Fusiliers 

(Caesionidae) (Figure 18). SIMR has a particularly high population of Blue Spotted 

Stingrays (Dasyatis kuhlii) which is not reflected well in the data collected, as they tend 

to be buried in sandy substrates at the bottom of the reef. In some locations, between 20 

and 30 stingrays were observed during each 45 minute dive.


30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

Peacock Grouper 


Coral Hind Grouper 

Saddleback Coral Grouper 

Whitespotted Grouper 

Other Grouper 

Blackspot Snapper 

Red Snapper 

Blue Lined Snapper 

Other Snapper 


Slatey Sweetlips 

Oriental Sweetlips 

Blackspotted Sweetlips 

Goldspotted Sweetlips 

Other Sweetlips 

Spangled Emperor 

Blackspot Emperor 

Longface Emperor 


Other Emperor 

Thumbprint Spinecheek 

Jacks/Trevally 

Kingfish/Tuna 

Parrotfish 

Surgeonfish 

Rabbitfish 

Goatfish 

Barracuda 

Triggerfish 

Needlefish 

Fusiliers 

Sharks/Rays 

Figure 18. Average abundance (+/- SE) of commercial fish recorded on all swims completed on coral reef 



Shallow lagoonal areas surrounding Shungimbili Island contain extensive areas of 

seagrass habitat which extend from the island out to the reef edge, approximately 1km 

distant. The seagrass habitats surveyed are composed of four species of seagrass but are 

primarily dominated by Thalassodendron cilatum and Thalassia hemprichi. Deeper areas 

of seagrass beds were observed to the south-east and north-west of the island; they 

consist of dense patches of Thalassodendron cilatum set within sand substrates. Substrate 

composition varies depending on site location, with a greater proportion of rock and 

rubble recorded at sites on the outer lagoonal edge. Invertebrate populations consist 

primarily of urchins and razor clams. Starfish are more commonly found on the sandy 

patches within the seagrass beds. 


Site 1 is a shallow lagoonal site close to the island to the north of the rock 

platform bordered to the east by a sand bar. Average substrate composition for site 1

shows a dominance of sand substrates with a lower level of rubble formed from coral 

rock (Figure 19); rock substrates form only 1% on average of the site 1 habitats. 

77% 

Figure 19. Average substrate composition of seagrass habitats at site 1 (Inner lagoonal) at SIMR. 


1% 

22% 

Rock 

Rubble 

Sand 

The seagrass coverage at this location is more varied in terms of species diversity 

than at similar sites at MBIMR, but overall abundance is much lower. In contrast to other 

sites surveyed coverage of Thalassia hemprichi was over three times higher than 

Thalassodendron cilatum. Small percentages of the two other seagrass species found 

were intermixed with Thalassia hemprichi (Figure 20).

68% 

5% 

18% 

2% 

0% 

1% 

0% 

6% 

0% 

0% 

Thalassodendron cilatum 

Thalassia hemprichi 

Haduole universis 

Hadoule ovalis 

Sponge 

Hard Coral 

Algae 

Anenome 


Bare Substrate 

Figure 20: Average benthic composition of seagrass habitats at site 1 (Inner lagoonal) at SIMR. 


Invertebrate abundance was collected within the same quadrat areas as for 

substrate composition and benthic composition. Largest abundances for site 1 were 

observed for urchin (0.63 +/- 0.21) and razor clam (0.3 +/- 0.21), although overall 

abundance of invertebrates was low (Figure 21). 


4 

3.5 

3 

2.5 

2 

1.5 

1 

0.5 

0 

Urchins 

Sea Cucumber 

Starfish 

Razor Clam 

Cowrie 

Scallop 

Nudibranchs 

Shrimp 

Gastropod 

Cone Shell 

Figure 21: Average abundance of invertebrates (+/- SE) present on seagrass habitats at site 1 (Inner 

lagoonal) at SIMR. 

Tube Worm


Deep seagrass habitats at SIMR support large numbers of juvenile emperor 

species, as well as smaller numbers of barracuda, rabbit fish, and fusiliers (Figure 22). 

Shallow seagrass areas have lower numbers of commercially important species, but a 

range of wrasse and goatfish species were recorded in addition to juvenile emperors 

(Figure 22). Out of the 22 categories looked for, individuals were present in 20 

categories. 

Average abundance recorded (+/- SE) 

16 

14 

12 

10 

8 

6 

4 

2 

0 

damselfish 

goatfish 

cigar wrasse 

bird wrasse 

other wrasse 

snapper 

emperor 

emperor juvenile 

fuseliers 

SG parrot 

parrot 

surgeon 

pufferfish 

sergeantfis 

barracuda 

razorfish 

rabbitfish 

demoiselle 

cardinalfish 

toby 

grouper 

other 

Shungimbili Shallow Shungimbili Deep 

Figure 22. Average abundance (+/- SE) of fish recorded on all swims completed on seagrass habitat at 

SIMR. 


Shungimbili Island has no permanent (or semi permanent) fishing camp. Some 

fishers do camp on the island for extremely short stays of one or two nights, but do not 

build shelters. This is due to the small amount of the island that remains permanently 

above the high water mark. The reefs are visited by fishers who camp for longer periods

on Mbarakuni. At times of good weather, small dugout canoes were frequently present. 

Fishers were often seen snorkelling on the seagrass beds or fishing from small boats 

using lines. 

Ras Mbisi lodge uses the island for tourism purposes. Guests who take part in 

whale shark sighting trips also visit to snorkel the fringing reef and picnic on the island. 

This island is selected for this use due to its near pristine natural beauty, excellent 

snorkelling and low numbers of fishermen present. 

C. Mbarakuni Island Marine Reserve (MBIMR) 


A patch mosaic map was created from the low resolution imagery in conjunction 

with benthic cover data, spot checks, and habitat patch boundary tracking. The reef at 

MBIMR consists of a broken reef edge at approximately 6-8m deep running in a semi- 

circle from the north to the east side of the island. This area has the highest scleractinian 

coral cover observed in the reserve area, although much lower than observed at either 

Shungimbili or Nyororo. The area has a high, diverse and abundant sponge and soft coral 

population which merits further detailed research. The reef edge encloses extensive areas 

of shallow seagrass, with deeper seagrass habitats found to the south of the island.

Figure 23. Final habitat patch map of MBIMR created using a low resolution satellite image and GPS 

track, point and transect info. The current reserve boundaries are shown. 

2. Coral Reef Habitat 


The coral reef at MBIMR consists of a broken reef crest which extends around the 

north and east of the island approximately 1km from the island. At the most southerly 

section, the reef line eventually breaks up in to coral ‘bommies’ interspersed with sand 

and seagrass patches. The rest of the reef shows a fairly distinct vertical reef edge at 

around 5 to 8m deep, which is generally between 1 and 3m high. In some areas a second

edge is visible at around 10m deep. Above this, the reef gradually slopes up until it 

reaches the centre lagoonal seagrass habitat between 0.5 and 2m deep which is tide 

dependent. Beyond the reef edge, the dominant substrate is sand with occasional coral 

‘bommies’. In this habitat, sponges and soft coral are most common but gradually 

become sparser further from the reef edge in deeper water. At a depth of 12m, coverage 

of benthic organisms is very low and consists almost solely of sponge and soft coral 

species. 

The main areas of the reef have an average scleractinian coral coverage of 7.55% 

(+/- SE 1.33) (Figure 24) consisting primarily of massive growth forms (4.1% +/- SE 

0.87) (Figure 25). The waters around MBIMR were often found to be highly turbid, with 

visibility frequently below 2m and with strong currents. The type of reef found at 

MBIMR is consistent with that expected under these environmental conditions. 


35 

30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 


Dead Coral 



Sponge 


Seagrass 

Macroalgae 





Rock 

Rubble 

Sand 

Silt 

Other 

Figure 24. Average percent cover by benthic type for all transects completed on coral reef habitats at 

MBIMR.


6 

5 

4 

3 

2 

1 

0 


Figure 25: Average percent cover by scleractinian coral growth morphology across all transects completed 

on coral reef habitats at MBIMR 


The invertebrate community of the reefs at MBIMR is dominated by various 

species of starfish which is comparable with the data collected at Shungimbili (Figure 

26). Small numbers of commercially important species such as edible sea cucumbers, 

giant clams, and cowrie shells were also recorded (Figure 26). The urchin population 

level is far lower than at NIMR, which is likely to be related to the very different reef 

communities observed at these sites. The nudibranch community shows particular 

diversity and abundance, and again along with the nudibranchs at Nyororo merits further 

research. Crown of thorn starfish (Acanthaster planci) were noted at several locations 

along the reef at MBIMR (Figure 26).


30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

Diadema 

Other Urchin 



Octopus 


Nudibranch 

Lobster 

COTS 

NT Starfish 

Giant Clam 

Cowrie 


Drupella 


Figure 26. Average abundance (+/- SE) of invertebrates recorded on all transects completed on coral reef 

habitat at MBIMR. 


Reef fish data were collected over the same 25m transects as benthic composition 

and invertebrate data. Reef fish counts were high, and although very variable, several 

species were recorded for each transect. Certain species such as Dash and Dot Goatfish 

(Parupeneus barberinus) and Striped Bristletooth (Ctenochaetus striatus) ranked among 

the most abundant fish species on average per 25m transect at a rate of 1.55 (SE +/- 0.43) 

and 1.83 (SE +/- 0.44), respectively (Figure 27). Other common groups were Parrotfish, 

Triggerfish, and Moorish Idols. Of the 55 species or groups of reef fish data was 

collected on, 27 were recorded on transects at MBIMR.


2.5 

2 

1.5 

1 

0.5 

0 



















Black Pyramid 











Moorish Idol 


Sailfin Tang 














Six-bar Wasse 




Triggerfish 

Grouper 

Parrotfish 

Unicornfish 

Batfish 

Rabbitfish 

Figure 27. Mean abundance of reef fish species observed on all transects completed at MBIMR. 


Four commercial fish surveys were completed for MBIMR. In common with 

SIMR, main species included Sweetlips (Haemulidae), Jacks and Trevallys (Carangidae), 

Emperors (Lethrinidae), and Fusiliers (Caesionidae). 

3. Seagrass Habitat 


Data collection took place on both inner and outer shallow lagoonal sites at 

MBIMR. A total of forty 1m² quadrat areas were assessed for each site within a 250m² 

area. Analysis of the substrate composition data for site 1 showed that on average 96% 

(+/-SE 0.92) of the area sampled was composed of sand with the remainder formed of 

coral rock rubble (Figure 28). Site 2 (outer shallow) had a very different substrate 

composition; a quarter of the area consisted of rock with the remainder of the area 

divided equally between sand and rubble (Figure 29).

97% 

0% 

Figure 28. Average percentage cover of substrates at site 1 (inner shallow) at MBIMR. 

37% 

3% 

38% 

25% 

Figure 29. Average percentage cover of substrates at site 2 (inner shallow) at MBIMR. . 


Rock 

Rubble 

Sand 

Rock 

Rubble 

Sand 

Biomass of benthic flora and fauna was assessed alongside substrate composition. 

Site 1 (inner shallow) was highly dominated by Thalassodendron cilatum (54%) with 

much lower percentage of Thalassia hemprichi present (4%); low levels of macroalgae, 

sponge, and scleractinian corals were also recorded (Figure 30). Of the total area, on

average 35% was formed of bare substrates. Site 2 had similar levels of Thalassodendron 

cilatum and bare substrates to site one (Figure 31). However, in contrast to site 1, site 2 

had almost four times the amount of algae (primarily Sargassum spp.) and no Thalassia 

hemprichi present. 

35% 

0% 

4% 

1% 

2% 0% 

4% 

54% 





Sponge 

Hard Coral 

Algae 

Anenome 


Figure 30. Pie chart showing percentage cover of organic benthic communities. 

33% 

0% 

0% 

15% 

1% 

1% 

0% 

50% 






Sponge 

Hard Coral 

Algae 

Anenome 



Figure 31. Pie chart showing percentage cover of organic benthic communities.


Invertebrate abundance was collected alongside substrate composition and benthic 

composition. Largest abundances for site 1 were observed for urchin (2.5 +/- SE 0.56) 

and starfish (2.1 +/- SE 0.22) species (Figure 32). Site 2 had a more diverse invertebrate 

community than recorded for site 1 but much lower abundance levels (Figure 33). 

Average abundance (+ /- S E ) 

4 

3.5 

3 

2.5 

2 

1.5 

1 

0.5 

0 

Urchins 

Sea Cucumber 

Starfish 

Razor Clam 

Cowrie 

Scallop 

Nudibranchs 

Shrimp 

Gastropod 

Cone Shell 

Tube Worm 

Figure 32. Average abundance of invertebrates within sea grass habitats at site one showing standard error 

bars. 

Average abundance (+/- SE ) 

4 

3.5 

3 

2.5 

2 

1.5 

1 

0.5 

0 

Urchins 

Sea Cucumber 

Starfish 

Razor Clam 

Cowrie 

Scallop 

Nudibranchs 

Shrimp 

Gastropod 

Cone Shell 

Tube Worm 

Figure 33. Average abundance of invertebrates within sea grass habitats at site two showing standard error 

bars.


The highest abundance of juvenile emperors was recorded for the shallow and 

deep seagrass habitats at MBIMR out of all the habitats surveyed (Figure 34). These 

areas were also found to support large populations of seagrass Parrotfish (Leptoscerus 

vaigiensis) (Figure 34). In total, fish were recorded in half of the categories looked for. In 

contrast to the seagrass habitats around SIMR, no Barracuda, Surgeonfish, or Rabbit Fish 

were observed. This suggests that there is lower overall diversity at MBIMR. 


35 

30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

damselfish 

goatfish 

cigar wrasse 

bird wrasse 

other wrasse 

snapper 

emperor 

emperor juvenile 

fuseliers 

SG parrot 

parrot 

surgeon 

pufferfish 

sergeantfis 

barracuda 

razorfish 

rabbitfish 

demoiselle 

cardinalfish 

toby 

grouper 

other 

Mbarakuni Shallow Mbarakuni Deep 

Figure 34. Average abundance (+/- SE) of fish within shallow and deep sea grass beds for all fish swims 

completed 


Mbarakuni was observed to have a seasonal fishing camp where a maximum of 

approximately 30 fishers were based on a short term rolling basis. During the season of 

northerly monsoon (November to March), the camp was vacated. Most visiting vessels 

were canoes and short range sailing vessels such as ‘ngalawas’ and fishing was generally 

artisanal. However, there were also some motorised commercial activities, notably

lobster fishing. A foreign financed lobster (Panulirus spp.) fishing operation was based 

on the island during the study period, except during periods of bad weather. The lobsters 

caught were reported to be solely for export to Dar Es Salaam where they would fetch a 

higher price. The operation used a 15hp motorboat, diving cylinders and a compressor 

operated from the island. As the fishers were reported to be paid per unit catch and were 

using SCUBA diving techniques, harvest levels may be beyond sustainable yield. Many 

of the explored areas showed evidence of high levels of exploitation, such as full or 

partial remains of lobsters left on the reef. 

D. Fish Species List 

A fish species list was compiled during visits to all three reserve areas. The 

information was collected both within the context of other surveys, and in the interest of 

species data gathering. Where possible, fish observed were identified to the lowest 

possible taxonomic level. The fish species list is not definitive and further survey work, 

particularly for smaller cryptic species, would be likely to extend it much further. The 

species lists are included in appendix 1. 

V. Discussion 

A. NIMR 

NIMR encompasses a range of marine habitats that include high density 

scleractinian coral reefs, mixed reef habitats dominated by soft coral species, seagrass 

beds, and macroalgae habitats. Shallow marine habitats are found predominantly to the 

east of the island at distance of 4.5km from the island shore. To the west of the island the 

slope drops quickly down to 12m, with deeper areas composed of sand flats. A sand bar 

lies 1.8km to the south of the island and is surrounded by a mixed community of 

seagrass, corals and other benthic organisms.

Coral reef habitats surveyed consisted of a variety of community types dependent 

on depth and location. In the main, coral reefs around Nyororo displayed a low 

percentage cover of scleractinian corals (5-10%) and higher levels of soft coral cover (25- 

30%). This is likely to be the result of the often turbid conditions found in this area 

resulting from sediment influx from the Rufiji delta. Higher percent coverage of 

scleractinian species was found at locations with high water flux and in very shallow 

areas where light penetration was sufficient to allow the growth of branching Acropora 

and other R-selected scleractinian coral species. On deeper sites, where light penetration 

levels were generally far lower, the scleractinian coral community was primarily 

composed of K-selected species with massive growth forms. 

Surveyed reefs included all types of communities found on reefs within NIMR. 

Sites 1 and 3 are typical of the main reef type found around Nyororo Island, with soft 

coral dominance and low coverage of massive and encrusting scleractinian corals. Site 2 

is the only coral reef found within NIMR with areas of high scleractinian coral coverage, 

generally branching Acropora species. Site 4 is located on the deepest coral reef habitats 

found, which extend down to 20m. These habitats are formed of very large massive 

corals (up to 10m in diameter) on sand substrates. Small patches of branching Acropora 

are found in places along the shallowest parts of the northern reef where sites 1 and 3 

were located; however, they are very limited in their extent and do not form a continuous 

habitat band. Areas of sand substrate with medium sized massive corals (~1-4m 

diameter) were also found to the south of the island close to shore at approximately 5m 

depth. 

Out of 55 reef fish species or family groups looked for, a total of 34 were 

recorded as present on survey reef sites at Nyororo. Variations in abundance were present 

between survey sites and, for some species, were clearly linked to differences in benthic 

composition. Vagabond Butterfly fish (Chaetodon vagabundus) are associated with 

turbid ‘dead’ sites where they feed on a range of foods including coral, algae, and 

anemones. Kleins Butterfly fish (Chaetodon kleinii) feed on soft corals as well as algae 

and zooplankton. Both of these species of Butterfly fish were recorded on transects at site 

three, a mixed habitat dominated by soft corals. In contrast, Chevron Butterfly fish

(Chaetodon trifascialus) are closely associated with tabular and branching forms of 

Acropora but were also found at low abundance levels at this site. Other species of 

Butterfly fish that are commonly closely associated with rich coral habitats such as 

Redfin Butterfly fish (Chaetodon trifasciatus) were found at site two only. The abundant 

wrasse and goat fish populations found at all surveyed sites suggest the presence of rich 

populations of small benthic invertebrates. Recorded abundance of groupers was 

generally low for all sites surveyed. However, this may be due to the methodology used 

to collect this data. Groupers often shelter under rocks or in holes making them difficult 

to spot while swimming along the reef. 

Invertebrate communities were found to be more abundant and diverse on mixed 

soft and scleractinian coral reefs such as site 3. Site 3 supported many species of sea 

cucumber including edible species. In addition, gastropods which are often collected for 

the marine curio trade, such as cowries, were frequently recorded on survey transects. A 

range of different nudibranch species were observed on all survey sites, and further 

secondary data collection would reveal the level of species diversity present. 

Sites found to be of particularly conservation importance are: 

• The Acropora dominated reef flat, crest and slope found along the west side of the 

island extending from the shore out to 12m depth, a distance of approximately 

100m. 

• In addition, there were reports from other environmental organisations operating in 

the area that dynamite fishing had been carried out at sites around Nyororo Island. 

The use of this highly destructive fishing technique will have serious repercussions 

for the health and biodiversity of reefs. Further research is needed to ascertain the 

levels at which this is occurring. 

B. SIMR 

SIMR is the reserve area which seems of least importance to local fishers due to 

its unsuitability for temporary camps. It is also of the highest importance for the tourism

industry as it is highly regarded for its natural beauty, good diving and snorkelling, and 

the presence of black tip sharks and turtles. The coral reef extends for over 2.5km around 

the east and north of the island at a distance of around 1km, and encloses shallow 

seagrass beds. At its maximum the coral reef is 100m wide. There is a channel (4 to 6m 

deep) running from the north-west of the reserve area towards NIMR. The channel area 

begins at the north-western extent of the coral reef and is approximately 0.5km in width. 

To the north of the reef, near the channel, is a small patch reef surrounded by sand 

substrates. The western side of the island is experiencing rapid erosion of the shoreline. 

According to anecdotal evidence, the island has reduced in width by nearly two-thirds 

over the past ten years. As testimony to this, there are many large tree trunks lying in the 

water and on the beach along the western shore. 

The reef at SIMR is comprised of a mixed coral community based on an eroded 

coral rag and sandstone base. A discernable reef edge is present along most of the reef 

with a short vertical section often present on the deepest reef margins from 5m down to 

10-12m deep. In places the coral reef is replaced by rubble slopes running down from the 

shallow seagrass habitats to the outer reef edge. They generally are no more than 30m in 

width. The conditions experienced at SIMR were less turbid than those observed at 

MBIMR, but visibility was still generally low and the reef was primarily dominated by 

soft corals (21.32% +/- SE 1.95%). The main growth morphologies of scleractinian corals 

were found to be massive (4.88% +/- SE 0.66%), and branching (5.32% +/- SE 1.41%). 

In addition, all other growth forms were recorded, but at less than 1% average cover. On 

the deeper reef margins, particularly at the north-eastern corner of the reef where it is at 

its widest, large Porities colonies were found, many of them over 4m in diameter. 

Fish abundance on the reef at SIMR was not at the same level as observed on 

coral rich habitats at sites in NIMR, but there was greater diversity of species. The most 

abundant reef fish observed on the coral reef at SIMR were Dash and Dot Goatfish 

(Parupeneus barberinus) and Striped Bristletooth (Ctenochaetus striatus). Five species of 

butterfly fish were recorded, including Redfin (C. trifasciatus), which are commonly 

associated with coral rich habitats, and Vagabond (C. vagabundus), which are found in 

turbid ‘dead’ sites. In total, 32 of the 55 reef fish species looked for were recorded on

transects. Commercial fish species were looked for during surveys in 33 categories 

including specific species and family groups, of these categories, 23 were recorded at 

SIMR. High abundances were recorded for Snappers, Trevallys, Parrotfish, and 

Sweetlips, although the highest levels were observed for fish such as Goatfish, 

Surgeonfish, and Fusiliers. Large numbers of Blue Spot String Rays were seen during 

survey dives, and this is in part recorded on the commercial fish data. However, rays are 

generally found on the sandy substrate around the edge of the reef and are likely to be 

under-recorded as swims were conducted primarily above coral rock substrates. The 

diverse benthic community found on the reef at SIMR clearly provides suitable habitat 

for a wide range of fish species, and is therefore of high ecological importance. 

The seagrass flats at SIMR are extensive, and are similar in composition to those 

found at MBIMR, although seem to support slightly lower invertebrate and fish numbers. 

Analysis of the data collected on fish abundance on seagrass beds around SIMR 

demonstrates the importance of these habitats for commercially important food fish 

species, particularly juvenile emperor species. 


• The reserve area as a whole provides key habitat for highly threatened and 

ecologically important species of shark and turtle. It is therefore recommended that 

the entire site should be considered as of high importance. As previously stated, 

the island cannot provide a site as a fishermen’s base, and is unsuitable for any 

form of tourism other than for day trips. The site is likely to be highly susceptible 

to disturbance; damage to one type of habitat or ecosystem or over-fishing of a key 

species could have serious repercussions for the reserve as a whole. It is therefore 

recommended that the island, its shallow and deep seagrass beds, and surrounding 

coral reef should be considered as a single core zone. Complete protection of this 

site would provide the necessary refugia for endangered species and provide an 

intact source reef which is able to supply recruits to surrounding reefs.

C. MBIMR 

MBIMR is the smallest of the three reserve areas. In addition to the island itself, 

there are extensive shallow seagrass habitats, deep seagrass habitat, and a soft coral 

dominated reef. The shallow seagrass beds cover the entire area between the reef and the 

island, an area extending for more than 3km 2 . The reef curves around the east and north 

of the island at a distance of 1km, and is situated on a highly eroded coral rag and 

sandstone base which extends for over 2km in length. 

The coral reef habitats which were found in MBIMR are dominated by soft corals 

(31.55% +/- SE 0.88%) with a very low coverage of scleractinian corals (7.55% +/- SE 

1.33%). This is likely to be due to the turbid environmental conditions frequently 

experienced at MBIMR which result in very low light levels and high sedimentation. 

Scleractinian corals found were mainly massive, sub-massive, and encrusting forms. Due 

to its diversity of benthic organisms MBIMR supports an abundant community of benthic 

invertebrates. This includes Crown Of Thorn Starfish (COTS) which is in contrast to the 

other surveyed sites. COTS were found on just over half of the transects completed at 

MBIMR (0.53 +/- SE 0.13), whereas only a single COTS was recorded on all transects 

completed for the other two reserves. 

The shallow and deep seagrass habitats in MBIMR are both extensive, and 

ecologically rich. Five species of seagrass were identified from the shallow habitats. The 

seagrass habitats provide important nursery sites which supports fish populations, 

particularly juvenile Emperors. In addition, they have relatively high numbers of 

commercially important species such as edible sea cucumbers and cowries. 


• The shallow seagrass habitats found at MBIMR form a unique and diverse 

ecosystem which supports many invertebrate species at risk from over-collection. 

The sites examined do not appear to be subject to more than minimal levels of

damage at present, but if further use is made of the island, monitoring needs to be 

put in place to ensure that run-off of pollutants does not cause greater problems. 

• The use of the island and reef sites by fishermen engaged in commercial lobster 

fishing needs to be monitored to ensure that fishing levels do not exceed 

sustainable levels. 

D. Revisions to reserve boundaries 

It is recommended that revisions to the reserve boundaries for all three reserve 

areas are made in order to ensure that ecologically important habitats are included within 

the reserve areas. Site connectivity means that reef and seagrass habitats within the 

reserve areas are likely to have close associations in terms of provision of feeding, 

breeding, shelter, and nursery areas with many species moving between sites on a daily or 

seasonal basis. In addition, a clearly defined reserve boundary which includes the whole 

of the shallow reef and seagrass areas is easier to manage as confusion is avoided over 

whether particular sites are included inside the reserve area. Preservation of local 

ecosystems in their entirety will therefore help to ensure that conservation actions are 

effective from both ecological and management perspectives. 

The following reserve boundary revisions are thus recommended: 

Nyororo Island Marine Reserve: 

1) Lat 7° 35’ 24”S, Long 39° 40’ 20”E 

2) Lat 7° 36’ 00”S, Long 39° 42’ 44”E 

3) Lat 7° 37’ 00”S, Long 39° 44’ 24”E 

4) Lat 7° 39’ 30”S, Long 39° 43’ 70”E 

5) Lat 7° 39’ 30”S, Long 39° 40’ 20”E 

Shungimbili Island Marine Reserve: 

1) Lat 7° 42’ 60”S, Long 39° 41’ 60”E

2) Lat 7° 41’ 50”S, Long 39° 42’ 10”E 

3) Lat 7° 41’ 70”S, Long 39° 40’ 70”E 

4) Lat 7° 42’ 10”S, Long 39° 40’ 50”E 

5) Lat 7° 42’ 50”S, Long 39° 40’ 50”E 

Mbarakuni Island Marine Reserves: 

1) Lat 7° 42’ 40”S, Long 39° 44’ 30”E 

2) Lat 7° 42’ 40”S, Long 39° 46’ 00”E 

3) Lat 7° 43’ 70”S, Long 39° 46’ 00”E 

4) Lat 7° 43’ 70”S, Long 39° 44’ 30”E

VI. Appendices 

Appendix 1. Fish species list. 

Common 

Name 

Latin Name Nyororo Shungimbili Mbarakuni 

Sargent major Abudefduf vaigiensis x 

Eyestripe 

surgeonfish 

Acanthurus 

dussumieri 

x 

Black surgeonfish Acanthurus gahhm x x x 

Powder-blue 

surgeonfish 

Acanthurus 

leucosternon 

x 

Lietenant 

surgeonfish 

Acanthurus tennenti x 

Thompson’s 

surgeonfish 

Acanthurus 

thompsoni x x x 

Convict 

surgeonfish 

Acanthus triostegus x 

Skunk aneomefish Amphiprion 

akallopisos 

x x 

False clown 

anenomefish 

Amphirion ocelloris x x 

Nose stripe clown 

fish 

Amphriprion 

akallopsois x 

Two bar clown 

anenomefish 

Amphriprion allardi x 

Bluespotted 

wrasse 

Anampses 


x x 

Three spot Apolemichthys 

Angelfish trimaculatus 

Masked puffer Arothron diadematus x 

Star puffer Arothron stellatus x x 

Titan triggerfish 

Balistoides 

viridescens 

x x x 

Needlefish Belonidae spp x 

Yellowback 

fusilier 

Caesio teres x x 

Crown toby 

Canthigaster 

coronata 

x x 

Bar jack Carangoides ferdau x 

Two-spined / 


Centropyge 

bispinosus 

x x 

Peacock Grouper Cephalopholis argus x x 

Coral Hind 

Grouper 

Cephalopholis 

miniata 

x 


Cephalopholis 

sexmaculata 

Threadfin 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon auriga x x x 

Bennett’s 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon bennetti 

Blackburn’s Chaetodon

Butterflyfish blackburni 

Saddleback 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon falcula 

Spotted 

Chaetodon 

Butterflyfish guttatissimus 

Klein’s 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon kleinii x 

Somali 

Chaetodon 

Butterflyfish leucopleura 

Lined 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon lineolatus x 

Raccoon 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon lunula x x x 

Black-backed 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon 

melannotus 

x x 

Meyer’s 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon meyeri 

Crown 

Chaetodon 

Butterflyfish paucifasciatus 

Chevron 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon 

trifascialus 

x x 

Redfin 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon 

trifasciatus 

x x 

Teardrop 

Chaetodon 

Butterflyfish unimaculatus 

Vagabond 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon 

vagabundus 

x x 

Yellowhead 

Butterflyfish 

Chaetodon 

xanthocephalus 

x 

Zanzibar 

Chaetodon 

Butterflyfish zanzibariensis 

Blacktip reef 

shark 

Charcharhinus 

melanopterus x 

Cigar wrasse Chelio inermis x x 

Twotone chromis 

Chromis dimediata x 

Threespot chromis Chromis nerator x 

Footballer 

demoiselle 

Chrysiptera annulata x x 

Bluespeckled 

prawn goby 

Cryptocentrus 

caeruleomaculatus x x 

Two spot 

bristletooth 

Ctenochaetus 

binotatus 

x x x 

Striped 

bristletooth 

Ctenochaetus striatus x x x 

Goldring 

bristletooth 

Ctenochaetus 

strigosus 

x x x 

Domino dascyllus Dacyllus 

trimaculatus 

x 

Humbug dascyllus Dascyllus arunanus x x 

Bluespotted 

stingray 

Dasyatis kuhlii x x x 

Slatey Sweetlips Diagramma pictum x 

Slingjaw wrasse Epibulus insidiator x x x

Whitespotted Epinephelus 

Grouper 


Big Long-nosed Forcipiger 

Butterflyfish longirostris 

Indian Ocean Bird 

wrasse 

Gomphosus 

caeruleus 

x x x 

Checkerboard 

wrasse 

Haliochoeres 

hortulanus x x x 

Threespot 

damselfish 

Hemigymnus 

fasciatatus x x 

Barred thicklip 

wrasse 

Hemigymnus 

fasciatus x x 

Black Pyramid 

Butterflyfish 

Hemitaurichthys 

zoster 

x 

Longfin 

Bannerfish 

Heniochus 

acuminatus 

x x x 

Masked 

Bannerfish 

Heniochus 

monoceros 

x 

Barred flagtail Kuhlia mugil x 

Blue – streaked 

cleaner wrasse 

Labroides dimidiatus x x 

Seagrass 

parrotfish 

Leptoscerus 

vaigiensis x 

Blackspot 

Emperor 

Lethrinus harak x x 

Spangled Emperor Lethrinus nebulosus 

Longface Emperor Lethrinus olivaceus x 

Red Snapper Lutjanus bohar x x 

Blackspot Snapper Lutjanus ehrenbergi x x 

Bluelined Snapper Lutjanus kasmira 

Black snapper Macolor niger x 

Ornate wrasse 

Marcophoryngodon 

cyanoguttatus 

x 

Mozambique 

fangblenny 

Meiacanthus 

mocambici 

x 


Monotaxis 

grandoculus 

x 

Yellow boxfish Ostracion cubicus x x 

Longnose filefish 

Oxymonacanthus 

longirostris 

x 

Palette 

surgeonfish 

Paracanthus hepatus 

Dash-and-dot 

goatfish 

Parupeneus 

barberinus 

x x x 

Yellowsaddle 

goatfish 

Parupeneus 

cyclostomus 

x x x 

Longbarbel 

goatfish 

Parupeneus 

macronema 

x x x 

Pinnate spadefish Platax pinnatus x x 

Goldspotted 

Sweetlips 

Plectorhinchus 

flavomaculatus 

x x 

Blackspotted 

Sweetlips 


gaterinus 

x x

Oriental Sweetlips Plectorhinchus 

orientalis 

x 



sordidus 

x 

Jewel damselfish 

Plectroglyphidon 

lacrymatus 

x 

Saddleback coral 

Grouper 

Plectropomus laevis x 

Ear-spot angelfish Pomacanthus 

chrysurus 

Emperor angelfish Pomacanthus 

imperator 

Yellowbar 

angelfish 

Pomacanthus 

maculosus 

x x x 

Oldwoman 

angelfish 

Pomacanthus 

rhomboides 

x 

Semicircle 

angelfish 

Pomacanthus 

semicirculatus 

x x x 

Crescent tail 

bigeye 

Priacanthus hamrur x 

Gulf damselfish 

Pristotis 

jobtusirostris 

x x 

Dottybacks Pseudochromis spp x x 

Twinstripe fusilier Pterocaesio marri x x 

Lionfish Pterois volitans x 


Pygoplites 

diacanthus 

x 

Wedge picassofish Rhinecanthus 

rectangulus 

x 

Crown squirrelfish Sargocentron 

diadema 

x 

Bullethead 

parrotfish 

Scarus sordidus x x 

Thumbprint 

Spinecheek 

Scolopsis 

bimaculatus 

x x 

Halfmoon 

triggerfish 

Sufflamen 

chrysopterus 

x x 

Redband 

lizardfish 

Synodus variegatus x 

Bluesspotted 

ribbontail ray 

Taeniura lymna x x 

Sixbar wrasse 

Thalassoma 

hardwicke 

x x x 

Goldbar wrasse 

Thalassoma 

hebraicum 

x x x 

Blackspotted 

electric ray 

Torpedo 

fuscomaculata 

x 

Moorish Idol Zanclus cornutus x x x 

Brushtail tang Zebrasoma scopes x x x 

Sailfin Tang Zerasoma desjardinii x x

Biophysical Survey of Mafia Island Marine Reserves

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