HULHULE-MALE’ BRIDGE PROJECT

EIA for the proposed Hulhule-Male’ Bridge Project
4.5.2.3 Visual Snorkelling Survey
Time Swim 1 - Raalhugandu Reef Flat
Visual snorkelling survey shows that the reef flat is generally made up of rocky bottom. Average
depth at the time of survey was about 5 m. Live coral cover was low; only few interspersed
Pocilliopora colonies were observed on the rocky bottom. Fish life was generally poor along the
reef flat.
Figure 4.42: Select images showing reef flat at Raalhugandu area
Time Swim 2 - Raalhugandu Channel
The reef slopes down gently to approximately 40 m to a rocky bottom, a number of caves and
overhangs were observed at this depth. Colonies of Tubastrea micrantha, were observed on the
bottom. These are hardy coral species, which feeds mostly on planktons. Fish life was generally
very good at this depth. In addition, many mature Napoleon Wrasses (Cheilinus undulatus) was
observed at this site. This species is listed as endangered in the IUCN Redlist, and is protected in
the Maldives.
Prepared by: CDE Consulting & China Shipping Environment Technology
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