Global Vision International 2011 Report Series No.

001

GVI Mexico
Punta Gruesa Marine Expedition Mahahual

Quarterly Report 111 January - March 2011

GVI Mexico, Punta Gruesa Expedition Report 111 Submitted in whole to GVI Amigo de Sian Kaan Comisin Nacional de reas Naturales Protegidas (CONANP) Produced by Laura McHugh - Science Officer Bryan Becker Field staff Ariadna Armas Field staff And
Erin Lawrence Oliver McGuinness Ruaidhri Le Mage Thomas Nuttall-Smith Andrew North Mario Chow Alain Frederick Jacques Vanegas Jeramy Makortoff Darren Lock Patrick Brydon Tom Pearson Nick Hall Ben Booth Steven Ashby Kathryn Entwistle Matt Cybulski Base Manager Field Staff Field Staff Scholar Scholar NSP NSP Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Brandon Djordjevich Jack MacDonald Kate Barker Elizabeth Gardner Oliver Oakenfold David Tate Laura Esther Hantman Bradley Harris Rocky Ross Julia Huisman Holly Shield Timothy May Ruth Arnold Karin Gruell Shandy Labine Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer Volunteer

Edited by Laura McHugh Science Officer GVI Mexico, Punta Gruesa Email: mexico@gviworld.com Web page: http://www.gvi.co.uk and http://www.gviusa.com

Executive Summary
The thirteenth ten week phase of the Punta Gruesa, Mexico, GVI expedition has now been completed. The programme has maintained working relationships with local communities through both English classes and local community events. The programme has continued to work towards the gathering of important environmental scientific data whilst working with local, national and international partners. The following projects have been run during Phase 111 (January-March 2011): Monitoring of strategic sites along the coast. Training of volunteers in the MBRS methodology including fish, hard coral, and algae identification. Continuing the MBRS Synoptic Monitoring Programme (SMP) for the selected sites within the Mahahual region to provide regional decision makers with up to date information on the ecological condition of the reef. Providing English lessons and environmental education opportunities for the local community. Further developing the current Marine Education programme for the children of Mahahual that works alongside the standard curriculum.

Liaising with local partners to develop a successful and feasible programme of research in collaboration with GVI into the future. Continue adding to a coral and fish species list that will expand over time as a comprehensive guide for the region. Continuation of weekly beach cleans within the area, monitoring waste composition and trends. Daily bird monitoring and Incidental sightings program. Continuation of the National Scholarship Programme, whereby GVI Punta Gruesa accepts a Mexican national on a scholarship basis into the expedition.

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Table of Contents
Executive Summary...........................................................................................................ii List of Figures...................................................................................................................iv List of Tables....................................................................................................................iv 1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................5 2. Synoptic Monitoring Programme...................................................................................6 2.1 Introduction.........................................................................................................6 2.2 Aims....................................................................................................................8 2.3 Methodology.......................................................................................................8 2.4 Results...............................................................................................................10 2.5 Discussion.........................................................................................................12 3. Community programme...............................................................................................14 3.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................14 3.2 Aims..................................................................................................................14 3.3 Activities and Achievements............................................................................14 3.4 Review..............................................................................................................15 4. Incidental Sightings.....................................................................................................17 4.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................17 4.2 Aims..................................................................................................................17 4.3 Methodology.....................................................................................................17 4.4 Results...............................................................................................................18 4.5 Discussion.........................................................................................................19 5. Marine Litter Monitoring Programme.........................................................................20 5.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................20 5.2 Aims..................................................................................................................20 5.3 Methodology.....................................................................................................20 5.4 Results...............................................................................................................21 5.5 Discussion.........................................................................................................22 6. Bird Monitoring Programme........................................................................................23 6.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................23 6.2 Aims..................................................................................................................23 6.3 Methodology.....................................................................................................24 6.4 Results...............................................................................................................24 6.5 Discussion.........................................................................................................25 7. Seagrass Monitoring Programme.................................................................................27 7.1 Introduction.......................................................................................................27 7.2 Aims..................................................................................................................27 7.3 Methodology.....................................................................................................27 7.4 Results...............................................................................................................28 7.5 Discussion.........................................................................................................29 8. References....................................................................................................................31 9. Appendices...................................................................................................................33 Appendix I SMP Methodology Outlines.............................................................33 Appendix II - Adult Fish Indicator Species List.....................................................37 Appendix III - Juvenile Fish Indicator Species List...............................................38

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Appendix IV - Coral Species List............................................39 Appendix V - Fish Species List..............................................................................40 Appendix VI a - Bird Species List..........................................................................42 Appendix VI b - Bird Species List..........................................................................43

List of Figures
Figure 2-3-1 The Dive Sites of Punta Gruesa

List of Tables
Table 2-3-1 GPS locations of the monitoring sites Table 2-4-1 Percentage Cover of Hermatypic Coral and Macroalgae by site during phase 111 Table 2-4-2 Adult Target Species Abundance by Monitoring Site Table 2-4-3 Total Number of Juveniles and Average Number of Juveniles Per Transect by Site Table 5-4-1 Average Weight of Litter Collected per Week by Phase (Kg) Table 6-4-1 Most common bird species or families recorded during phase 111 Table 7-3-1 GPS positions for seagrass transects (Units in WGS 84 Format hddd.dddddo )

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1. Introduction
The Yucatan Peninsula is fringed by the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS), the second largest barrier reef system in the world, extending over four countries. Starting from Isla Contoy at the North of the Yucatan Peninsula it stretches down the Eastern coast of Mexico down to Honduras via Belize and Guatemala. The current project at Punta Gruesa, in collaboration with a sister base in Pez Maya located inside the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve, assists our project partners, Amigos de Sian Kaan (ASK) and Comisin Nacional de reas Naturales Protegidas (CONANP) in obtaining baseline data along the coast of Quintana Roo through marine surveys. This data allows ASK to focus on the areas needing immediate environmental regulation depending on susceptibility and therefore, implement management protection plans as and when required. Such a project is especially significant in current times of rapid development along the small fishing village coast of the Mahahual area due to the tourism industry generated by the cruise ship pier that was built near the town in 2002. Methodologies continue to be improved and focused as experience is gained and improvement to data quality is continuous. A full Annual Report will collate and summarize all data and enable more descriptive and accurate analysis. The following research/monitoring programmes have been carried out this phase: The MBRS Synoptic Monitoring Programme Community Work Programme Incidental Sightings Marine Littering Monitoring Programme Bird Monitoring Programme Seagrass Monitoring Programme

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2. Synoptic Monitoring Programme

2.1 Introduction The Synoptic Monitoring Programme looks to evaluate the overall health of the reef by looking at three main areas: Benthic cover, fish populations and physical parameters. Benthic Cover Caribbean reefs were once dominated by hard coral, with huge Acropora palmata stands on the reef crests and Acropora cervicornis and Montastraea annularis dominating the fore reef. Today, many reefs in the Caribbean have been overrun by macro algae during a phase shift which is thought to have been brought about by numerous factors including a decrease in herbivory from fishing and other pressures, eutrophication from land-based activities and disease (McClanahan & Muthiga, 1998). Benthic transects record the abundance of all benthic species as well as looking at coral health. The presence of corals on the reef is in itself an indicator of health, not only because of the reefs current state, but also for its importance to fish populations (Spalding & Jarvis, 2002). Coral health is not only impacted by increased nutrients and algal growth, but by other factors, both naturally occurring and anthropogenically introduced. A report produced by the United Nations Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC) in 2004 stated that nearly 66% of Caribbean reefs are at risk from anthropogenic activities, with over 40% of reefs at high to very high risk (UNEP-WCMC, 2006). Through monitoring the abundances of hard corals, algae and various other key benthic species, as well as numbers of Diadema urchin encountered, we aim to determine not only the current health of the local reefs but also to track any shifts in phase state over time. Fish Populations Fish surveys are focused on specific species that play an important role in the ecology of the reef as herbivores, carnivores, commercially important fish or those likely to be affected by human activities (AGRRA, 2000).

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For more in depth rationale of the importance of each of the key fish families please see previous GVI Mahahual/Punta Gruesa reports. All reef fish play an important role in maintaining the health and balance of a reef community. Fishing typically removes larger predatory fish from the reef, which not only alters the size structure of the reef fish communities, but with the reduction in predation pressure, the abundance of fish further down the food chain is now determined through competition for resources (AGRRA, 2000). Although each fish is important, the removal of herbivores can have a considerable impact on the health of the reef, particularly in an algal dominated state, which without their presence has little chance of returning to coral dominance. Through the monitoring of these fish and by estimating their size, the current condition of the reef at each site can be assessed, any trends or changes can be tracked and improvements or deteriorations determined. The monitoring of juvenile fish concentrates on a few specific species. The presence and number of larvae at different sites can be used as an indication of potential future population size and diversity. Due to the extensive distribution of larvae, however, numbers cannot be used to determine the spawning potential of a specific reef. The removal of fish from a population as a result of fishing, however, may influence spawning potential and affect larval recruitment on far away reefs. The removal of juvenile predators through fishing may also alter the number of recruits surviving to spawn themselves (AGRRA, 2000). Together with the information collected about adult fish a balanced picture of the reef fish communities at different sites can be obtained. Physical Parameters For the optimum health and growth of coral communities certain factors need to remain relatively stable. Measurements of turbidity, water temperature, salinity, cloud cover, and sea state are taken during survey dives. Temperature increases or decreases can negatively influence coral health and survival. As different species have different optimum temperature ranges, changes can also influence species richness. Corals also require

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clear waters to allow for optimal photosynthesis. The turbidity of the water can be influenced by weather, storms or high winds stirring up the sediment, or anthropogenic activities such as deforestation and coastal construction. Increased turbidity reduces light levels and can result in stress to the coral. Any increase in coral stress levels can result in them becoming susceptible to disease or result in a bleaching event. In the near future, GVI Punta Gruesa hopes to be able to use this data for analysis of temporal and seasonal changes and try to correlate any coral health issues with sudden or prolonged irregularities within these physical parameters. 2.2 Aims The projects at Punta Gruesa and Pez Maya aim to identify coral and fish species with a long term, continuous dataset allowing changes in the ecosystem to be identified. The projects also aim to ascertain areas of high species diversity and abundance. The data is then supplied to the project partners who can use the data to support management plans for the area. 2.3 Methodology The methods employed for the underwater visual census work are those outlined in the MBRS manual (Almada-Villela et al., 2003), but to summarize, GVI use three separate methods for buddy pairs: Buddy method 1: Surveys of corals, algae and other sessile organisms Buddy method 2: Belt transect counts for coral reef fish Buddy Method 3: Coral Rover and Fish Rover diver The separate buddy pair systems are outlined in detail in Appendix I. The nine sites that are monitored as part of the MBRS programme at GVI Punta Gruesa, detailed below, were chosen through discussions with ASK, the Programa de Manejo Integrado de Recursos Costeros (MIRC, a subsidiary of UQROO) and discussions with local fishermen.

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These sites make up a coastal range of 6.5km in the immediate vicinity of Punta Gruesa (See Figure 2-3-1 below) and are monitored every three months to give a long term evaluation of the reef health.

Figure 2-3-1 The Dive Sites of Punta Gruesa

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Location Los Bollos Las Joyas Los Milagros Costa Norte Las Delicias Las Palapas Flor de Can Sol Naciente Los Gorditos

Site ID LB10 LJ10 LM10 CN10 LD10 LP10 FDC10 SN10 LG25

Depth 10m 10m 10m 10m 10m 10m 10m 10m 25m

Latitude 19.02 21.8 19.01 53.0 19.01 36.7 19.01 31.0 19.01 24.7 19.01 55.8 19.02 04.4 19.00 36.0 18.59 37.6

Longitude 087.33 54.8 087.34 07.6 087.34 15.9 087.34 16.5 087.34 20.2 087.34 05.1 087.34 03.8 087.34 33.0 087.34 51.9

Table 2-3-1 GPS locations of the monitoring sites. GPS points are listed here in the WGS84 datum. Position format is hddd mm ss.s

The eight sites at 10m are situated on the reef crest with one deeper site Los Gorditos, which offers a wide sample area with spur and groove formations.

2.4 Results During phase 111 (January-March 2011) adverse weather conditions did not allow us to complete all the sites. 166 boats were sent out to the reef including 33 monitoring boats, resulting in a total of 20 coral transects conducted over four sites and 40 fish transects conducted over five sites. Benthic Data Coral transects monitored 600m of reef, collecting data from 2,400 benthic points. 396 corals were monitored for coral community studies sighting 18 incidences of disease. 24.5% of corals showed signs of bleaching and 77 examples of coral predation were noted. Data showed average hermatypic coral coverage to be 14.75% across all sites with macroalgae coverage at 57.88%. Table 2-4-1 shows the breakdown of percentage cover observed this phase by site. The most commonly observed coral species were Agaricia agaricites and Siderastrea siderea combining to make up 53.39% of the corals recorded. Dark spot disease was recorded 15 times. There was also one observation of yellow blotch, one of red band disease and one hyperplasm. Seven different types of predation were recorded with sponge predation making up 54 of the 77 observations.

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Site I.D. CN10 LM10 LP10 SN10

Hermatypic Coral Cover (%) 15.50 11.33 17.67 14.50

Macroalgae Cover (%) 53.33 61.50 57.33 59.33

Table 2-4-1 Percentage Cover of Hermatypic Coral and Macroalgae by site during phase 111.

Fish Populations 360 adult target fish, covering 28 different species, were recorded this phase. This is equal to 9.00 target fish per transect. 174 fish, covering nine species, were recorded on the juvenile transects, which is equal to 4.35 fish per transect. Haemulidae were the most common family recorded accounting for 49% of the total target fish sightings. Acanthuridae were next with 23%. Table 2-4-2 shows the abundance of each fish family by site for this phase. CN1 0 19 2 0 8 28 3 0 1 0 0 7 4 72 9.00 LD1 0 32 1 2 3 6 1 0 0 1 0 1 6 53

FAMILY Acanthurida e Balistidae Carangidae Chaetodonti dae Haemulidae Labridae Lutjanidae Monacanthi dae Pomacanthi dae Pomacentrid ae Scaridae Serranidae Total No. per transect

LM10 LP10 SN10 31 0 0 4 21 2 0 1 0 0 8 8 75 32 0 0 4 50 1 0 1 1 0 14 7 110 13.7 5 26 3 0 3 11 1 0 0 1 0 0 5 50 6.25

6.63 9.38

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Table 2-4-2 Adult Target Species Abundance by Monitoring Site

The three most numerous juvenile species found were Thalassoma bifasciatum (Bluehead wrasse), Stegastes paritus (Bicolour damselfish) and Sparisoma aurofrenatum (Redband parrotfish). Table 2-4-3 shows the total number of juveniles recorded at each site and the average number per transect. Average Number per Transect 6.38 3.25 4.75 2.88 4.50

Site I.D. CN10 LD10 LM10 LP10 SN10

Total Number of Individuals Recorded 51 26 38 23 36

Table 2-4-3 Total Number of Juveniles and Average Number of Juveniles Per Transect by Site

2.5 Discussion Due to weather conditions greatly inhibiting the monitoring programme this phase, in terms of both training and the ability to send boats to the sites, coral transects were only carried out at four of the pre-mentioned sites. They were Costa Norte, Los Milagros, Sol Naciente and Las Palapas. Fish transects were carried out at these sites and at one additional site, Las Delicias. Data showed average hermatypic coral coverage to be 14.75% across all sites, which is the highest value recorded since monitoring began at Punta Gruesa in 2008. Coral cover was above average at all four of the sites monitored. It was especially high at Las Palapas where coral cover was calculated to be 17.67%. The average value for this site is 10.15%. This could be due to an actual increase in coral cover or it could be fluctuation due to the random placement of the transect lines. Coral cover on reefs across the Caribbean has decreased dramatically over the past three decades from about 50% to 10% cover (Gardner et al. 2003). Although the coral cover at Punta Gruesa is undoubtedly lower than it has been in the past, it is in line with other

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values calculated for this region. The average hermatypic coral coverage calculated this phase at Punta Gruesa is above both the regional average of 11% and the Mexico Yucatan average of 7.5% (Wilkinson, 2008). The number of adult target fish per transect was below average this phase. The average across all phases is 12.60 fish per transect and the average calculated for this phase is 9.00 fish per transect. This is the lowest value since phase 091 (January-March 2009). The number of juvenile fish per transect was the lowest on record this phase. The number of juveniles recorded cycles on an annual basis and is always at its lowest at the start of the year, however the average number recorded per transect this phase (4.35) is lower that the number recorded at the same time of year in 2008, 2009 and 2010 (10.07, 5.74 and 6.07 respectively). Juvenile fish abundance cycles on an annual basis due to spawning cycles. Although many species settle randomly throughout the year, recruitment reaches its peak in the summer (DeLoach, 1999). All other patterns fit those of previous phases outlined in detail in GVI Mexico, Punta Gruesa, Quarterly Report 104 October - December 2010.

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3. Community programme
3.1 Introduction GVI is committed to working with the local communities, assisting them to guide Mahahual s development towards a sustainable future. For that, we centre our activities in two main aspects: English and Environmental Education. GVI hopes to provide locals in Mahahual with the tools to develop the area beneficially for themselves, their professions and needs, whilst protecting it for the future. Consequently, during both the child and adult education programs, wherever possible an environmental theme has been included within the structure of the lessons. 3.2 Aims The aims of the community programme in Punta Gruesa are:

1. To raise awareness about the importance of the ecosystems that surround their
area, providing them with information about it and organizing activities to reinforce the knowledge given. 2. To provide locals with English lessons that will help them to develop a skill that is necessary for them in order to be able to communicate with the growing tourist visitors that come to the area.

3. To participate in the different activities that are organized by the locals and provide
help if it is needed. 3.3 Activities and Achievements The program is carried out in two main areas: English for adults and children in three levels (basic, intermediate and advanced) during the afternoons; and Environmental education for primary and secondary school during the mornings every Thursday. The English lessons for children are carried out while they are at school. The volunteers prepare the lesson that will be given the day before. Games, interactive activities and songs are part of the tools they use to reinforce the knowledge. After the lesson they have feedback sessions between themselves to comment on how the lesson went.

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Lessons in the evening are the most successful due to the working times of the majority of the students, which are mainly taxi drivers, builders, waiters, masseuses and sales people. Attendances vary, but on average up to 10 or more adults are regularly seen. The structure of these lessons is usually led by the participants who have specific requirements based on their careers and as such the types of conversation had. 3.4 Review This phase we introduced English classes at the secondary school, replacing the previous phases Spanish-language environmental education classes so Punta Gruesa had the following program: English Classes, Primary School, Tuesdays 9:30-10:30 and 11:00 -12:00 English Classes, Secondary School, Thursdays 11:00 -12:00 English Classes, Adults, Thursdays, 16:30-18:00 and 18:30-20:00pm A voluntary English class was added for primary school students on Tuesdays, 12:4513:45. The volunteers were given an introduction to TEFL and teaching in week three of the expedition. Out of the 26 total volunteers, all but one expressed interest in participating in the program. All of those 25 participated at least once. Four volunteers decided not to participate a second time. After receiving more training during phase some of the volunteers became much better at lesson planning and classroom management. Due to lack of continuity between phases, the classes developed by the volunteers were frequently repeats of lessons from past phases. Some were fun games with the kids, with very little actual English involved, other lessons required a lot of Spanish translation (something that is discouraged in the TEFL field). Many of the volunteers found the school children challenging. Although many of the school-aged students enjoyed their time with GVIs volunteer teachers, the majority of them seemed to tune out when the volunteers were in front of the class. Overall, the volunteers seemed to be more enthusiastic about teaching English to adult learners, who have requested further and more frequent lessons. Our recommendations for next phase and beyond are to focus Punta Gruesas Community Involvement component on the following four areas:

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Adult English language education, twice a week (or as appropriate per volunteer interest) Conservation-themed full-day activities, at the primary and secondary schools (maybe a few times per phase) Community events Research on local fishing practices

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4. Incidental Sightings
4.1 Introduction GVI Punta Gruesa has implemented an incidental sightings program since January 2008, following on from the previous Mahahual bases data since 2004. This is due to the high number of turtles and other mega fauna species seen on dives in the area. Species that make up the incidental sightings list are: Sharks and Rays Eels Turtles Marine Mammals Great Barracuda Lionfish

These groups are identified to species level where possible and added to the data collected by the Ocean Biogeographic Information Systems Spatial Ecological Analysis of Megavertebrate Populations (OBIS-SEAMAP) database. An interactive online archive for marine mammal, seabird and turtle data, OBIS-SEAMAP aims to improve understanding of the distribution and ecology of marine mega fauna by quantifying global patterns of biodiversity, undertaking comparative studies, and monitoring the status of and impacts on threatened species. 4.2 Aims The aim of the project is to record all mega fauna sightings in the vicinity of Punta Gruesa and to keep track of the population numbers and spread of lionfish. 4.3 Methodology Each time an incidental sighting species is seen on a dive or snorkel it is identified, and the date, time, location, depth it was seen at, and size are all recorded. The volunteers are provided with a mega fauna presentation during science training, which aids in identification of shark, ray and turtle species. All the completed dives are logged by GVI, showing the total effort for each phase in comparison with the species recorded.

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For the first time in Phase 093 (July-September 2009) GVI Punta Gruesa began recording lionfish sightings. Over the past decade the Pacific Lionfish (Pterois volitans and P. miles) has established itself along the Atlantic coast as a result of multiple releases (intentional or otherwise) from private aquaria. This invasive species lacking in natural predators, has adapted well to the warm waters of the Caribbean, and is currently spreading its geographical range along the Mesoamerican coastline. 4.4 Results During this phase a total of 106 incidental sightings were recorded across 166 trips out to the reef. This equates to a unit effort of 0.64 sightings per boat. These figures also include anything spotted during snorkel trips to the lagoon but the total number of snorkel trips that were made is unknown. Three species of elasmobranchs were recorded including 36 southern stingrays (Dasyatis americana), five nurse sharks (Ginglymostoma cirratum) and three spotted eagle rays (Aetobatus narinari). Three species of moray eels were recorded incuding seven green morays (Gymnothorax funebris), three spotted morays (Gymnothorax moringa) and two goldentail morays (Goldentail Moray). Nine turtles were recorded including four loggerheads (Caretta caretta), three hawksbills (Eretmochelys imbricate) and two greens (Chelonia mydas). There were four dolphin encounters involving 31 dolphins. Both Atlantic spotted dolphins (Stenella frontalis) and bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncates) were recorded. 11 Great barracuda were recorded, ranging in size from 0.8-2m. 166 lionfish were recorded, ranging in size from 10-38cm. Five of these were killed in an attempt to control lionfish numbers on the reef.

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4.5 Discussion The most common species recorded was the southern stingray, Dasyatis americana, which was recorded 36 times. This is consistent with data from previous phases. Southern stingrays have been the most common elasmobranchs recorded every phase since monitoring began here at the start of 2008, with the exception of phase 083 (JulySeptember 2008). They tend to spend a lot of time partially buried in the sand, just off the wall. They are often very conspicuous from the dive sites, which may partially explain the high numbers recorded. There were 11 great barracuda sightings during this phase. This is the lowest number recorded since the survey began in 2009. They were recorded in much higher numbers during the 2009 phases peaking at 134 individuals during phase 092 (April-June 2009), but throughout 2010 their numbers were consistently low, ranging from 11 to 32. The reasons for such a significant decrease in S. barracuda sightings is unclear but may be partially attributed to a lack of observations of schooling behaviour. No more than three individuals were seen together this phase compared to phase 102 (April-June 2010) when 11 individuals were observed in a group or phase 093 (July-September 2009) when 15 S. barracuda were seen together. It is not yet understood whether schooling of large members of the species is subject to seasonal variation but hopefully this will become clear with the collection of more data. 166 lionfish were recorded during this phase. This is the second highest number recorded since the survey began in 2009. They were most frequently recorded in the 16-20cm category, which is consistent with the data from this phase last year. The increase in Pterois volitans and P. miles sightings poses a potentially large problem for the reefs at Punta Gruesa as they are known to be voracious predators. This problem will only worsen unless more efforts are made to keep the population in check. According to Morris et al. 2010, only 27% of the population needs to be removed monthly for the population to decrease. Concerted efforts will be made again by the staff to remove as many individuals as possible during the next phase. All other results fit those of previous phases outlined in detail in GVI Mexico, Punta Gruesa, Quarterly Report 104 October - December 2010.

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5. Marine Litter Monitoring Programme.

5.1 Introduction Punta Gruesas location on the Yucatan Peninsula means that it faces the Caribbean Current. This is a circular current that combined with the Loop current and the Yucatan current, transports a significant amount of water northwest ward through the Caribbean Sea. The main source is from the equatorial Atlantic Ocean via the North Equatorial, North Brazil and Guiana Currents. Due to the volume of water that is transported and both the nature and origin of the said currents, it is possible that the litter being found is from quite far afield. This could be compounded by the high shipping pressures, in particular the cruise ships that pass through to Mahahual on a regular basis on average carrying approx. 2-3,000 passengers. Other factors also include outflows from rivers and storm drains etc. If this is the most common source for the marine debris then it is likely that weather changes, which have an impact on both tidelines and sea turbulence, will have a direct and noticeable effect on the amount of rubbish washed up. Phase 092 (April-June 2009) saw the beginning of the marine litter collection program at Punta Gruesa. Marine litter is prevalent along the Caribbean coast and is not only unsightly but a health hazard to marine life and humans alike. In order to collect more data on this issue a beach clean program will be conducted every phase. This is part of a worldwide program and is just one method of investigation to discover where marine litter originates from and which materials are most common. 5.2 Aims This project has three main aims: Quantified data and photographic evidence as to the extent of marine litter. Conservation of terrestrial and marine fauna threatened by litter. Improvement of beach aesthetics. 5.3 Methodology Marine litter is collected weekly on a 200 metre stretch of beach north of base. The transect is cleared one week prior to the commencement of the monitoring program, in order that only a weekly amount of debris is recorded. Materials are collected from the tidemark to the vegetation line to eliminate waste created by inland terrestrial sources.

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The waste is separated, weighed and recorded by the categories below: Fabric Glass Plastic Polystyrene Metal Natural material (modified) Medical waste Rubber Rope Other

5.4 Results A total of 44.6 kg of marine litter was collected this phase. Plastic accounted for approximately 56.9% of the total weight collected. Even though Polystyrene was one of the smallest categories in terms of weight, in reality it was one of the most numerous items and accounts for a large proportion of litter on the transect. Due to weather and time restrictions only four representative litter picks were conducted. To allow for this Table 6-4-1 shows the breakdown of the average litter collected per week since the survey began in phase 092 (April-June 2009).
092 5.24 0.51 0.00 0.38 0.51 0.88 0.02 0.16 0.00 2.17 9.87 093 8.55 0.43 0.00 0.89 0.04 1.35 0.03 0.12 0.00 0.01 11.90 094 9.86 1.57 0.09 2.20 2.00 1.62 0.00 0.32 0.00 1.17 18.82 101 6.19 1.00 0.04 0.14 0.17 0.31 0.16 0.13 0.03 1.87 10.03 102 3.17 0.84 0.00 0.01 0.72 0.60 0.41 0.13 0.00 2.41 8.29 103 4.17 0.56 0.03 0.11 0.79 0.53 0.74 0.15 0.04 2.76 9.88 104 7.25 2.36 0.00 0.00 1.35 0.05 2.83 0.47 0.07 3.94 18.31 111 6.34 0.70 0.01 0.14 0.16 0.46 0.08 0.78 0.03 2.45 11.14

Plastic Glass Fabric Rubber Natural Material Rope Metal Polystyrene Medical Waste Other Total

Table 5-4-1 Average Weight of Litter Collected per Week by Phase (Kg)

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5.5 Discussion As has been the case for the majority of monitors, plastics have again constituted the largest volume of all the categories this phase. This could be due to its light weight making it easy to transport and its robustness against degradation. The fact that the level of plastic found is consistently high from phase to phase is a worrying trend as when plastics such as Polythene, found in plastic bags, breakdown they form small plastic particles that can contaminate the food web and be passed on through the trophic levels. Plastic debris can act like a sponge for toxic chemicals soaking up compounds such as PCBs and DDE (a product from the breakdown of DDT). Once these are ingested into the food chain the high concentrations will be spread from organism to organism until the levels become fatal. Even though the data shows a large volume of rubbish being collected from a relatively small section of beach, it may be that the results do not do justice to the actual problem at hand. This is due to the seagrass bed situated alongside the monitoring area. As discussed above it is possible that during times of increased wind and wave action the volume of rubbish collected should show a marked increase. However this could be being masked by the large quantity of Thalassia testudinum that also gets washed up in these more extreme conditions burying the rubbish and hiding it from sight. In some areas the mound of dead blades can be as much as 75cm deep. All other patterns fit those of previous phases outlined in detail in GVI Mexico, Punta Gruesa, Quarterly Report 104 October - December 2010.

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6. Bird Monitoring Programme

6.1 Introduction With regard to avi-fauna, Mexico, Central and South America can be divided into three distinct regions separated by mountain ranges: the Pacific slope, the Interior and the Atlantic slope. These regions can be further divided into other sub-zones, based on a variety of habitats. The Yucatan Peninsula lies on the Atlantic slope and is geographically very different from the rest of Mexico: It is a low-level limestone shelf on the east coast extending north into the Caribbean. The vegetation ranges from rainforest in the south to arid scrub environments in the north. The coastlines are predominantly sandy beaches but also include extensive networks of mangroves and lagoons, providing a wide variety of habitats capable of supporting large resident populations of birds. Due to the location of the Yucatan peninsula, its population of resident breeders is significantly enlarged by seasonal migrants. There are four different types of migratory birds: Winter visitors migrate south from North America during the winter (August to May). Summer residents live and breed in Mexico but migrate to South America for the winter months. Transient migrants are birds that breed in North America and migrate to South America in the winter but stop or pass through Mexico. Pelagic visitors are birds that live offshore but stop or pass through the region. Punta Gruesa is located near the town of Mahahual close to the Mexico/Belize border between a network of mangrove lagoons and the Caribbean Sea. The local area contains three key ecosystems; wetland, forest and marine environments. 6.2 Aims Develop a species list for the area Gain an idea of the abundance and diversity of bird species. Long-term bird data gathered over a sustained period could highlight trends not noticeable to short-term surveys.

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Educate the volunteers in bird identification techniques, expanding on their general identification skills. The birding project also provides a good opportunity to obtain a better understanding of area diversity and the ecosystem as a whole. 6.3 Methodology

Bird monitoring surveys are conducted using a simple methodology based on the bird monitoring program at Pez Maya. A member of staff accompanied by volunteers monitor the transects daily between 6 and 8am. There are four transects - Beach south, Beach north, Road south and Road north. These transects were selected to cover a range of habitats, including coastline, mangroves, secondary growth and scrub. The transects are completed in approximately 30 minutes to allow for consistency of data. To reduce duplication of data, recordings are taken in one direction only which also helps to avoid double-counting where individuals are very active or numerous. Birds are identified using binoculars, cameras and a range of identification books. Identification of calls is also possible for a limited number of species for experienced observers. If the individual species cannot be identified then birds are recorded to family level. Each survey records the following information; location, date, start time, end time, name of recorders and number of each species seen. Wind and cloud cover have also been recorded to allow consideration of physical parameters. 6.4 Results A total of 1921 birds were recorded during 40 transects this phase. 30 species were identified and four new species were added to the species list (see Appendix VI). The new additions to the species list are the great black hawk (Buteogallus urubitinga ridgwayi), killdeer (Charadrius v. vociferous), roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja) and willet (Catoptrophorus semipalmatus). The Great-tailed grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus) was the most commonly recorded species making up 31.3% of the birds recorded. The second most commonly sighted species was the sanderling (Calidris alba), which made up 9.2% of sightings, followed by the brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis), which made up 7.8% of sightings.

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Species Great-tailed Grackle Sanderling Brown Pelican Tropical Mockingbird Magnificent Frigate Golden-fronted Woodpecker Royal Tern Great Kiskadee Warbler sp. Oriole sp. Kingbird sp. Semipalmated plover Yucatan Jay Great Blue Heron Plover sp.

Total 601 176 149 90 83 82 80 78 58 55 48 42 42 33 30

Species Egret sp. Heron sp. Neotropical Cormorant Yellow-throated Warbler Tern sp. Cormorant sp. Ani sp Groove-billed Ani Tropical Kingbird Killldeer Woodpecker sp. Yucatan Woodpecker Social Flycatcher Flycatcher sp. Lineated Woodpecker

Total 29 23 23 23 19 16 15 13 13 12 12 11 9 8 7

Table 6-4-1 Most common bird species or families recorded during phase 111

6.5 Discussion Those species with relatively constant numbers across phases are most likely resident in the area, with only minor fluctuations among those species inclined to local migration for mating or feeding purposes. Great-tailed grackles fall into this category, being described as resident breeders (Howell & Webb, 2004). Their numbers have fluctuated but have remained consistently high. Those species that are observed only at certain times of the year are most likely seasonal migrants, either moving into the area temporarily or simply moving through the region on their way to summer or wintering grounds elsewhere. These include the sanderlings, plovers, similar species of shore-birds and warblers, many of which are resident only during the winter, moving further north to breed during the summer. Sanderlings were the second most numerous species recorded during this phase. Their numbers at Punta Gruesa peak during the first and last phase of each year, the winter phases. This is because they are winter (non-breeding) visitors (Howell & Webb, 2004). Brown pelican numbers seem to follow a similar pattern, with their numbers peaking during the first phase of each year. Brown pelicans are not winter visitors though and have been

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recorded every phase since the survey began. In fact there are several breeding colonies along the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula (Howell & Webb, 2004). The species list at Punta Gruesa is constantly expanding each phase as observers become more adept at seeing and identifying species and migrant species enter the area. The collection of data will continue in future years and we will try to further standardise transects between phases. All other patterns fit those of previous phases outlined in detail in GVI Mexico, Punta Gruesa, Quarterly Report 104 October - December 2010.

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7. Seagrass Monitoring Programme

7.1 Introduction Phase 102 (April-June 2010) saw the implementation of a new survey program, focusing on the sea grass beds found adjacent to the beach at Punta Gruesa. The shoreline here is dominated by a shallow, almost continuous bed that stretches from the waters edge to the back reef approximately half a kilometre away. It is characterised by two main species, Thalassia testudinum and Syringodium filiforme. The seagrass beds are an intrinsic part of the marine ecosystem providing not only shelter to juvenile reef fish but also helping to slow the water currents/movement in the lagoon, decreasing the levels of coastal erosion and providing favourable conditions for both the mangroves and reefs to grow. 7.2 Aims The aims of the project are: Determine the overall percentage coverage and species composition along three transect lines and to find out if these values change with proximity to the reef. Monitor the changes in seagrass coverage and species composition over time. Monitor the health of the seagrass bed by measuring blade length, predation and epiphyte cover. 7.3 Methodology In order to monitor the health of this ecosystem, three transects have been set up; T1, T2 and T3 (T1 being closest to the beach and T3 being furthest away). Their positioning was based on relative distance from the edge of the bed and at a point of change in the biological composition of the bed.

T1A
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19.00810

T1B

19.00790

T1C

19.00770
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T2A T3A

087.58933 19.00785 087.58875 19.00748 087.58767

T2B T3B

087.58941 19.00765 087.58883 19.00724 087.58772

T2C T3C

087.58949 19.00744 087.58889 19.00703 087.58779

Table 7-3-1 GPS positions for seagrass transects (Units in WGS 84 Format hddd.dddddo )

Starting at point T1A (the most northerly point) a 1mx1m quadrat was laid on the shore side of the transect line and the following measurements were taken;

Overall percentage cover. S. filiforme percentage cover. T. testudinum percentage cover On 20 random T. testudinum blades within each quadrat, blade length, signs of predation (yes or no) and percentage cover of epiphytes was recorded.

This was repeated at 5m intervals across the length of each transect giving ten repeats per transect. This methodology allows a rapid assessment of an otherwise uncharted area of seagrass in the Punta Gruesa area. Due to the fact that they play such a crucial ecological role in the health of the reef systems, as a result of the habitual symbiosis shared between seagrass beds, reefs and mangroves, it is important to monitor and assess the seagrass beds. This methodology enables GVI Mexico to obtain baseline data on the species composition, percentage cover and condition so that changes in the health and structure can be monitored over an extended period of time. with limited training. 7.4 Results The average percentage cover of seagrass was found to be highest on the transect closest to the beach. Transect 1 had 81.0% cover, transect 2 had 77% cover and transect 3 had 42.0% cover. The methodology is based on the methodology of seagrassnet.com with slight modifications to accommodate for volunteers

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Average T. testudinum cover is also highest on the transect closest to the beach. Transect 1 had 75.0% cover, transect 2 had 45.0% cover and transect 3 had 32.0% cover. Average blade length of T. testudinum was found to be shortest on the transect furthest from the beach. On transect 1 it was found to be 10.5cm, on transect 2 it was 16.3cm and on transect 3 it was 8.2cm.

7.5 Discussion T. testudinum has been found to be the more dominant species on all three transects during every time the survey has been carried out. Williams (1987) observed a decline in S. filiforme shoot density as T. testudinum became dominant during temporal development and found that this was a result of exploitative competition primarily for sediment nutrients but also light. T. testudinum has a much greater leaf area for inception of light than S. filiforme. For example, a typical leaf width for T. testudinum is 1cm in contrast to just over 1mm for S. filiforme. Each time the transects have been monitored, the T. testudinum on transect 3 (closest to the reef) has been found to have the shortest average blade length and the T. testudinum on transect 2 was found to have the longest blade length. Sweatman and Robertson (1994) found that T. testudinum provided minimal cover (for juvenile fish) near to the reef edge because the blades were grazed short. They found that blade length increased with distance from the reef edge. This could partially explain the pattern observed here. Average percentage cover of seagrass is highest on transect 1, which is closest to the beach, and lowest on transect 3, which is closest to the reef. This is due to a drop in T. testudinum cover. Sweatman & Robertson (1994) found that T. testudinum blade density was similar at all of their sample distances from the reef. It is possible that the density across the three transects at Punta Gruesa may be similar. There may appear to be a difference in percentage cover due to differences in average blade length discussed above. This is only the third time this study has been conducted at Punta Gruesa so it is difficult to make any conclusions about the current state of the seagrass bed. This has been useful
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to try and determine a baseline percentage cover and see the beginning of relationships, however, before any definitive conclusions can be made further work is required to determine the viability of these findings and to allow for seasonal variations. All other patterns fit those of previous phases outlined in detail in GVI Mexico, Punta Gruesa, Quarterly Report 104 October - December 2010.

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8. References
AGRRA (2000) Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA). The AGRRA Rapid Assessment Protocol. http://www.agrra.org/method/methodhome.htm

Almada-Villela P.C., Sale P.F., Gold-Bouchot G. Kjerfve B. (2003) Manual of Methods for the MBRS Synoptic Monitoring System: Selected Methods for Monitoring Physical and Biological Parameters for Use in the Mesoamerican Region. Mesoamerican Barrier Reef Systems Project (MBRS). Deloach, N. (1999) Reef fish behaviour: Florida, Caribbean, Bahamas. Publications. Artegrafica. Verona, Italy. Gardener, T.A., Cote, I.M., Gill, J.A., Grant, A., Watkinson, A.R. (2003) Long-term regionwide declines in Caribbean corals. Science 301: 958-960. Howell, S. N. G., and Webb, S. (2004) A Guide to the Birds of Mexico and Northern Central America. Oxford University Press Inc., New York Morris, J. A. Jr., Shertzer, K.W., Rice, J.A. (2010) A Stage-Based Matrix Population Model of Invasive Lionfish with Implications for Control. Biol Invasions, DOI10.1007/s10530-0109786-8 McClanahan, T.R., Muthiga, N.A. (1998) An ecological shift in a remote coral atoll of Belize over 25 years. Environmental Conservation 25: 122-130. Spalding, M.D., Jarvis, G.E. (2002). The impact of the 1998 coral mortality on reef fish communities in the Seychelles. Marine Pollution Bulletin 44: 309-321. Sweatman, H. & Robertson, D. R. (1994) Grazing halos and predation on juvenile Caribbean surgeonfishes. Marine Ecology Progress Series. Volume 111: 1-6 New World

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UNEP-WCMC (2006). In the front line: shoreline protection and other ecosystem services from mangroves and coral reefs. UNEP-WCMC, Cambridge, UK. Wilkinson, C. (2008) Status of Coral Reefs of the World: 2008. Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network and Reef and Rainforest Research Centre, Townsville, Australia Williams, S. L. (1987) Competition between the seagrasses Thalassia testudinum and Syringodium filiforme in a Caribbean lagoon. Marine Ecology Progress Series. Volume 35: 91-98

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9. Appendices

Appendix I SMP Methodology Outlines Buddy method 1: Surveys of corals, algae and other sessile organisms At each monitoring site five replicate 30m transect lines are deployed randomly within 100m of the GPS point. The transect line is laid across the reef surface at a constant depth, usually perpendicular to the reef slope. The first diver of this monitoring buddy pair collects data on the characterisation of the coral community under the transect line. Swimming along the transect line the diver identifies, to species level, each hermatypic coral directly underneath the transect that is at least 10cm at its widest point and in the original growth position. If a colony has been knocked or has fallen over, it is only recorded if it has become reattached to the substratum. The diver also records the water depth at the beginning and end of each transect. The diver then identifies the colony boundaries based on verifiable connective or common skeleton. Using a measuring pole, the colonies projected diameter (live plus dead areas) in plan view and maximum height (live plus dead areas) from the base of the colonies substratum are measured. From plane view perspective, the percentage of coral that is not healthy (separated into old dead and recent dead) is also estimated. The first diver also notes any cause of mortality including diseases and/or predation and any bleached tissue present. categories: Black band disease Red band disease The diseases are characterised using the following ten

White band disease Hyperplasm and Neoplasm (irregular growths) White plague Predation and type Yellow blotch disease Bleaching and type

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Dark spot disease

Unknown

Predation and overgrowth are also recorded on each of the coral colonies. The following categories are considered: Parrotfish predation Damselfish predation Fireworm predation Short coral snail predation Overgrowing mat tunicate Variable boring sponge Fire coral predation Gorgonian predation Zoanthid predation Coralline algae overgrowth Sponge overgrowth Cliona sp.

Bleaching is described as either pale, partial of total using the following definitions: Pale the majority of the colony is pale compared to the original colour of the coral Partial the colony has a significant amount of patchy white areas Total all, or almost all, of the colony is white Any other features of note are also recorded, including, orange icing sponge, coral competition and Christmas tree worms. The second diver measures the percentage cover of sessile organisms and substrate along the 30m transect, recording the nature of the substrate or organism directly every 25cm along the transect. Organisms are classified into the following groups: Coralline algae - crusts or finely branched algae that are hard (calcareous) Turf algae - may look fleshy and/or filamentous but do not rise more than 1cm above the substrate Macroalgae - include fleshy and calcareous algae whose fronds are projected more than 1cm above the substrate. Three of these are further classified into additional groups which include Halimeda, Dictyota, and Lobophora Gorgonians Hermatypic corals - to species level, where possible Bare rock, sand and rubble Any other sessile organisms e.g. sponges, tunicates, zoanthids, hydroids.

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Buddy method 2: Belt transect counts for coral reef fish At each monitoring site 8 replicate 30m transects lines are deployed randomly within 100m of the GPS point. The transect line is laid just above the reef surface at a constant depth, usually perpendicular to the reef slope. The first diver is responsible for swimming slowly along the transect line identifying, counting and estimating the sizes of specific indicator fish species in their adult phase. The diver visually estimates a two metre by two metre corridor and carries a one meter T-bar divided into 10cm graduations to aid the accuracy of the size estimation of the fish identified. The fish are assigned to the following size categories: 0-5cm 6-10cm 11-20cm 21-30cm 31-40cm >40cm (with size specified)

The buddy pair then waits for three minutes at a short distance from the end of the transect line before proceeding. This allows juvenile fish to return to their original positions before they were potentially scared off by the divers during the adult transect. The second diver swims slowly back along the transect surveying a one metre by one metre corridor and identifying and counting the presence of newly settled fish of the target species. In addition, it is also this divers responsibility to identify and count the Banded Shrimp, Stenopus hispidus. This is a collaborative effort with UNAM to track this species as their population is slowly dwindling due to their direct removal for the aquarium trade. The juvenile diver also counts any Diadema antillarum individuals found on their transects. This is aimed at tracking the slow come back of these urchins. Buddy Method 3: Coral & Fish Rover divers At each monitoring site the third buddy pair completes a thirty minute survey of the site. This is carried out using a search pattern appropriate to the site but is usually a U-shaped pattern. The first diver records all adult fish species observed.. The approximate density of each fish species is categorised using the following numerations: Single (1 fish)

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Few Many Abundant

(2-10 fish) (11-100 fish) (>100 fish)

The second diver swims alongside the Fish Rover diver and records, to species level, all coral communities observed, regardless of size. The approximate density of each coral species is then categorised using similar ranges to those for fish: Single Few Many Abundant (1 community) (2-10 communities) (11-50 communities) (>50 communities)

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Appendix II - Adult Fish Indicator Species List

The following list includes only the adult fish species that are surveyed during monitoring dives.
Scientific Name Acanthurus coeruleus, Acanthurus bahianus, Acanthurus chirurgus, Chaetodon striatus, Chaetodon capistratus, Chaetodon ocellatus, Chaetodon aculeatus, Haemulon flavolineatum Haemulon striatum Haemulon plumierii Haemulon sciurus Haemulon carbonarium Haemulon chrysargyreum Haemulon aurolineatum Haemulon melanurum Haemulon macrostomum Haemulon parra Haemulon album Anisotremus virginicus Anisotremus surinamensis Lutjanus analis Lutjanus griseus Lutjanus cyanopterus Lutjanus jocu Lutjanus mahogoni Lutjanus apodus Lutjanus synagris Ocyurus chrysurus Holacanthus ciliaris Pomacanthus paru Pomacanthus arcuatus Holacanthus tricolour Scarus coeruleus Scarus coelestinus Common Name Blue Tang Ocean Surgeonfish Doctorfish Banded Butterflyfish Four Eye Butterflyfish Spotfin Butterflyfish Longsnout Butterflyfish French Grunt Striped Grunt White Grunt Bluestriped Grunt Caesar Grunt Smallmouth Grunt Tomtate Cottonwick Spanish Grunt Sailors Choice White Margate Porkfish Black Margate Mutton Snapper Gray Snapper Cubera Snapper Dog Snapper Mahaogany Snapper Schoolmaster Lane Snapper Yellowtail Snapper Queen Angelfish French Angelfish Grey Angelfish Rock Beauty Blue Parrotfish Midnight Parrotfish Scientific Name Scarus guacamaia Scarus vetula Sparisoma viride Scarus taeniopterus Scarus iserti Sparisoma aurofrenatum Sparisoma chrysopterum Sparisoma rubripinne Sparisoma atomarium Sparisoma radians Epinephelus itajara Epinephelus striatus Mycteroperca venenosa Mycteroperca bonaci Mycteroperca tigris Mycteroperca interstitialis Epinephelus guttatus Epinephelus adscensionis Cephalopholis cruentatus Cephalopholis fulvus Balistes vetula Balistes capriscus Canthidermis sufflamen Xanithichthys ringens Melichthys niger Aluterus scriptus Cantherhines pullus Cantherhines macrocerus Bodianus rufus Lachnolaimus maximus Caranx rubber Microspathodon chrysurus Sphyraena barracuda Common Name Rainbow Parrotfish Queen Parrotfish Stoplight Parrotfish Princess Parrotfish Striped Parrotfish Redband Parrotfish Redtail Parrotfish Yellowtail Parrotfish Greenblotch Parrotfish Bucktooth Parrotfish Goliath Grouper Nassau Grouper Yellowfin Grouper Black Grouper Tiger Grouper Yellowmouth Grouper Red Hind Rock Hind Graysby Coney Queen Triggerfish Gray Triggerfish Ocean Triggerfish Sargassum Triggerfish Black Durgon Scrawled Filefish Orangespotted Filefish Whitespotted Filefish Spanish Hogfish Hogfish Bar Jack Yellowtail Damselfish Great Barracuda

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Appendix III - Juvenile Fish Indicator Species List The subsequent list specifies the juvenile fish species and their maximum target length that are recorded during monitoring dives
Scientific Name Acanthurus bahianus Acanthurus coeruleus Chaetodon capistratus Chaetodon striatus Gramma loreto Bodianus rufus Halichoeres bivittatus Halichoeres garnoti Halichoeres maculipinna Thalassoma bifasciatum Halichoeres pictus Chromis cyanea Stegastes adustus Stegastes diencaeus Stegastes leucostictus Stegastes partitus Stegastes planifrons Stegastes variabilis Scarus iserti Scarus taeniopterus Sparisoma atomarium Sparisoma aurofrenatum Sparisoma viride Common Name Ocean surgeonfish Blue tang Foureye butterflyfish Banded butterflyfish Fairy basslet Spanish hogfish Slipperydick Yellowhead wrasse Clown wrasse Bluehead wrasse Rainbow wrasse Blue chromis Dusky damselfish Longfin damselfish Beaugregory Bicolour damselfish Threespot damselfish Cocoa damselfish Striped parrotfish Princess parrotfish Greenblotch parrotfish Redband parrotfish Stoplight parrotfish Max. target length (cm) 5 5 2 2 3 3.5 3 3 3 3 3 3.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5

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Appendix IV - Coral Species List

Family
Acroporidae Acroporidae Acroporidae Agariciidae Agariciidae Agariciidae Agariciidae Agariciidae Agariciidae Agariciidae Antipatharia Astrocoeniidae Caryophylliidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae Faviidae

Genus
Acropora Acropora Acropora Agaricia Agaricia Agaricia Agaricia Agaricia Agaricia Helioceris Cirrhipathes Stephanocoenia Eusmilia Colpophyllia Diploria Diploria Diploria Favia Manicina Montastraea Montastraea Montastraea Montastraea Solenastrea Solenastrea

Species
cervicornis palmata prolifera agaricites fragilis grahamae lamarcki tenuifolia undata cucullata leutkeni intersepts fastigiana natans clivosa labrynthiformis strigosa fragum areolata annularis cavernosa faveolata franksi bournoni hyades

Family
Meandrinidae Meandrinidae Meandrinidae Milliporidae Milliporidae Mussidae Mussidae Mussidae Mussidae Mussidae Mussidae Mussidae Mussidae Pocilloporidae Pocilloporidae Pocilloporidae Pocilloporidae Poritidae Poritidae Poritidae Poritidae Siderastridae Siderastridae Stylasteridae

Genus
Dendrogyra Dichocoenia Meandrina Millepora Millepora Isophyllastrea Isophyllia Mussa Mycetophyllia Mycetophyllia Mycetophyllia Mycetophyllia Scolymia Madracis Madracis Madracis Madracis Porites Porites Porites Porites Siderastrea Siderastrea Stylaster

Species
cylindrus stokesii meandrites alcicornis complanata rigida sinuosa angulosa aliciae ferox lamarckiana reesi sp. decactis formosa mirabilis pharensis astreoides divaricata furcata porites radians sidereal roseus

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Appendix V - Fish Species List This list was begun for Mahahual in April 2004. This list is compiled from the Adult and Rover diver surveys.

Family Family Family

Genus Genus Genus

Species Species Species

Common Names Common Names Common Names

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Pomacanthidae Pomacanthidae Pomacanthidae Pomacanthidae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Pomacentridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Scaridae Sciaenidae Sciaenidae Sciaenidae Scombridae Family Scombridae Scorpaenidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae GVI 2010 Serranidae Serranidae Serranidae

Holacanthus Holacanthus Pomacanthus Pomacanthus Abudefduf Chromis Chromis Chromis Chromis Microspathodon Stegastes Stegastes Stegastes Stegastes Stegastes Stegastes Scarus Scarus Scarus Scarus Scarus Scarus Sparisoma Sparisoma Sparisoma Sparisoma Sparisoma Sparisoma Equetus Equetus Pareques Scomberomoru s Genus Scomberomoru s Scorpaena Cephalopholis Cephalopholis Epinephelus Epinephelus Epinephelus Epinephelus Hypoplectrus Hypoplectrus Hypoplectrus Hypoplectrus Hypoplectrus Hypoplectrus Hypoplectrus Liopropoma Mycteroperca Mycteroperca Mycteroperca Mycteroperca Paranthias Rypticus Serranus

Ciliaris Tricolour Arcuatus Paru Saxatilis Cyanea Enchrysurus Insolata Multilineata Chrysurus Adustus Diencaeus Leucostictus Partitus Planifrons Variabilis Coelestinus Coeruleus Guacamaia Iserti Taeniopterus Vetula Atomarium Aurofrenatum Chrysopterum Radians Rubripinne Viride Lanceolatus Punctatus Acuminatus Maculates Species Regalis Plumieri Cruentatus Fulvus Adscensionis Guttatus Itajara Striatus Aberrans Chlorurus Guttavarius Indigo Nigricans Puella Unicolor Rubre Bonaci Interstitialis Tigris Venenosa Furcifer Saponaceus Tabacarius

Queen angelfish Rockbeauty Grey angelfish French angelfish Seargant major Blue chromis Yellowtail reef fish Sunshinefish Brown chromis Yellowtailed damsel fish Dusky damselfish Longfin damselfish Beaugregory Bicolour damselfish Threespot damselfish Cocoa damselfish Midnight parrotfish Blue parrotfish Rainbow parrotfish Striped parrotfish Princess parrotfish Queen parrotfish Greenblotch parrotfish Redband parrotfish Redtail parrotfish Bucktooth parrotfish Yellowtail parrotfish Stoplight parrotfish Jackknife fish Spotted drum Highhat Spanish mackerel Common Names Cero Spotted scorpionfish Graysby Coney Rockhind Red hind grouper Goliath grouper Nassau grouper Yellowbelly hamlet Yellowtail hamlet Shy hamlet Indigo hamlet Black hamlet Barred hamlet Butter hamlet Peppermint basslet Black grouper Yellowmouth grouper Tiger grouper Yellowfin grouper Page 41 Creolefish Greater soapfish Tobaccofish

Appendix VI a - Bird Species List Bird species identified to species level in Punta Gruesa since April 2009. Common Name Altamira Oriole Black Vulture Black-backed Oriole Black-bellied Plover Black-cowled Oriole Black-crowned Tityra Brown Pelican Canivet's Emerald Hummingbird Cattle Egret Common Black Hawk Dusky Capped Flycatcher Eastern Kingbird Ferruginous pygmy owl Golden-fronted Woodpecker Great Black Hawk Great Blue Heron Great Egret Great Kiskadee Great-tailed Grackle Green Heron Green Jay Green Kingfisher Grey Kingbird Groove-billed Ani Hooded Oriole Killdeer Laughing Falcon Laughing Gull Least Tern Lineated Woodpecker Little Blue Heron Magnificent Frigatebird Mangrove Vireo Mangrove Warbler Masked Tityra Neotropic Cormorant Osprey Palm Warbler Plain Chachalaca Purple Martin Roseate Spoonbill Family Icteridae Cathartidae Icteridae Charadriidae Icteridae Cotingidae Pelecanidae Trochilidae Ardeidae Accipitridae Tryrannidae Tyrannidae Strigidae Picidae Accipitridae Ardeidae Ardeidae Tyrannidae Icteridae Ardeidae Corvidae Alcedinidae Tyrannidae Cuculidae Icteridae Charadriidae Falconidae Laridae Laridae Picidae Ardeidae Fregatidae Vireonidae Parulinae Cotingidae Phalacrocoracidae Accipitridae Parulinae Cracidae Progne Threskiornithidae Scientific Name Icterus gularis Coragyps atratus Icterus abeilli or bullockii Pluvialis squatarola Icterus dominicensis Tityra inquisitor Pelecanus occidentalis Chlorostilbon canivetii Bubulcus ibis Buteogallus anthracinus Myiarchus tuberculifer Tyrannus tyrannus Glaucidium brasilianum Centurus aurifrons Buteogallus urubitinga ridgwayi Ardea herodias Egretta alba egretta Pitangus sulphuratus Quiscalus mexicanus Butorides virescens Cyanocorax yncas Chloroceryle americana Tyrannus d. dominicensis Crotophaga sulcirostris Icterus cucullatus Charadrius v. vociferus Herpetotheres cachinnans Larus atricilla Sterna antillarum Dryocopus lineatus Egretta caerulea Fregata magnificens Vireo pallens Dendroica erithachorides Tityra semifasciata Phalacrocorax brasilianus Pandion haliaetus Dendroica palmarum Ortalis vetula Progne subis Platalea ajaja

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Royal Tern Ruddy Ground-Dove Ruddy Turnstone Sanderling Semipalmated Plover Snowy Egret Social Flycatcher Swainsons warbler Tropical Kingbird Tropical Mockingbird Turkey Vulture White-eyed vireo White Ibis White-tipped dove White-winged Dove Willet Wilson's Plover Yellow Warbler Yellow-backed Oriole Yellow-throated Vireo Yellow-throated Warbler Yucatan Jay Yucatan Woodpecker

Laridae Columbidae Scolopacidae Scolopacidae Charadriidae Ardeidae Tyrannidae Parulinae Tyrannidae Mimidae Cathartidae Vireonidae Threskiornithidae Columbidae Columbidae Scolopacidae Charadriidae Parulinae Icteridae Vireonidae Parulinae Corvidae Picidae

Sterna m. maxima Columbina talpacoti Arenaria interpres Calidris alba Charadrius semipalmatus Egretta thula Myiozetetes similis Helmitheros swainsonii Tyrannus melancholicus Mimus gilvus Cathartes aura Vireo griseus Eudocimus albus Leptotila verreauxi Zenaida asiatica Catoptrophorus semipalmatus Charadrius wilsonia Dendroica petechia Icterus chrysater Vireo hypochryseus Dendroica dominica Cyanocorax yucatanicus Centurus pygmaeus

Appendix VI b - Bird Species List

Birds identified to family / genus in Punta Gruesa since April 2009.

Ani sp. Cormorant sp. Cowbird sp. Cuckoo sp. Dove sp. Egret sp. Flycatcher sp. Gull sp. Hawk sp. Heron sp. Kingbird sp. Kingfisher sp. Oriole sp. Plover sp. Sandpiper sp. Sparrow sp. Swallow sp. Swift sp. Tern sp. Trogon sp. Vireo sp. Vulture sp. Warbler sp. Woodpecker sp.

GVI 2010

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