#Status of Coral Reefs 2002 - International Coral Reef Action Network

Status of Coral Reefs of the World: 2002
in human populations and environmental pressures that are resulting in depletion and
degradation of coral reef resources. If this continues, there will be severe economic losses
in fisheries, tourism, and shoreline protection, as well as a loss of biodiversity. The need
for urgent and improved conservation efforts in the face of these human pressures as well
as damage from natural events was emphasised during recent regional meetings.
The coral reefs of the region vary from those fringing large to medium sized islands
(Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, Reunion, Seychelles), to isolated atoll reefs (Comoros,
Mauritius, Seychelles), and the region also includes the large submerged banks of the
Mascarene Plateau. Most reefs near large land masses show obvious signs of degradation,
whereas many of the isolated reefs remain in good condition.
A regional monitoring network was formed in 1998 to assist these countries in managing
their reef resources with the guidance from the Indian Ocean Commission (Regional
Environment Programme; 1995-2000). This network functions as a GCRMN Node, ‘South
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