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determine natural distribution and abundance of<br />
juvenile corals in different zones on the reef.<br />
2. Assessing bioerosion and its effects on reef<br />
structure following a bleaching event in the<br />
Maldives<br />
The objective of this project is to provide valuable<br />
information about the magnitude and direction of<br />
change in the reef framework and topographical<br />
complexity of shallow reef-flats, and finally to be able to<br />
predict the time-scales of reef recovery with greater<br />
accuracy.<br />
3. Building a data base on the economics of coral<br />
reef deterioration with special reference to<br />
bleaching<br />
The objective of the study is to determine the fishing<br />
communities socio-economic situation for the pre- and<br />
post-bleaching scenario. The aim is to integrate the<br />
socio-economic findings with the biophysical results of<br />
the national reef monitoring program, which would<br />
lead to more effective planning and policy making at<br />
the national level. Data will be entered and analyzed<br />
using a Geographic Information System (GIS).<br />
INDIA<br />
Country co-ordinator: Dr M. V. M. Wafar<br />
Institute: National Institute of Oceanography<br />
1. Recovery and monitoring of coral reefs<br />
Through environmental monitoring of coral reefs,<br />
assessments of changes in live coral cover and coral<br />
biodiversity over time, and rates of recruitment will be<br />
made. Studies will be carried out in four different areas:<br />
Gulf of Kutch, Lakshadweep Islands, Gulf of Mannar<br />
and Andaman Islands.<br />
2. Assessment of the effects of coral mortality on<br />
reef communities<br />
Changes in community composition over time, regarding<br />
macro- and microalgae and bioeroders, will be<br />
studied and compared with historical records.<br />
3. Socio-economic effects of bleaching on local<br />
populations and tourism<br />
This study aims to identify and assess the socio-economic<br />
implications of coral bleaching on tourism and on<br />
local populations directly dependent on reef resources<br />
for sustenance.<br />
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